Introduction
Broccoli salad is a classic side dish that brings together fresh, crunchy vegetables and savory flavors in a delightful way.
This version of the dish incorporates the deliciousness of crispy bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and a sweet and tangy dressing.
making it a perfect addition to any meal or gathering. The balance between the vegetables, bacon, and creamy dressing ensures each bite is satisfying.
Ingredients
-2 heads of fresh broccoli (not frozen)
-1/2 cup chopped red onion
-1/2 pound bacon
-1 1/2 cups cheddar cheese, grated
-2 1/2 tablespoons vinegar
-1 cup mayonnaise
-1/3 cup sugar
Instructions
Begin by washing the broccoli thoroughly and cutting it into small florets. Make sure to discard the tough stems and only use.
the tender, green parts of the broccoli. Place the florets in a large mixing bowl.
Next, chop the red onion into small pieces and add it to the broccoli florets in the bowl. The onion adds a sharp.
zesty contrast to the richness of the bacon and cheese, enhancing the overall flavor of the salad.
In a skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until it becomes crispy and browned. Once the bacon is fully cooked.
Remove it from the pan and place it on a paper towel to drain any excess grease. After the bacon has cooled, crumble it into small pieces and set it aside.
In a separate bowl, prepare the dressing by combining the mayonnaise, vinegar, and sugar. Whisk them together until.
the mixture is smooth and well-combined. The vinegar adds a tangy kick, while the sugar balances it out with a touch of sweetness.
Add the crumbled bacon and grated cheddar cheese to the broccoli and onion mixture.
Pour the dressing over the top and toss everything together until the ingredients are evenly coated.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the salad for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
This step also helps the broccoli absorb the dressing, making it more flavorful.
Before serving, give the salad a quick toss to ensure the dressing is evenly distributed. Serve chilled and enjoy this delicious and refreshing dish!
How to Make
Start by preparing your broccoli by cutting it into bite-sized florets. This ensures that each piece is easily.
manageable and will hold the dressing well. Don’t forget to wash the broccoli thoroughly to remove any dirt or pesticides.
When cooking the bacon, ensure it is crisped up well enough to crumble easily.
You can also use kitchen scissors to cut the bacon into smaller pieces before cooking for a more even crisp.
For the dressing, use full-fat mayonnaise for a creamier texture and richer flavor.
If you want a bit more tang in the salad, you can add an extra tablespoon of vinegar to taste.
Once the dressing is ready, pour it over the broccoli, bacon, onion, and cheese mixture.
Be gentle when tossing the salad to avoid breaking up the broccoli too much and to keep the bacon pieces intact.
If you have time, make this salad a few hours ahead of your meal.
This allows the flavors to deepen as the salad chills and gives the dressing more time to soak into the broccoli.
For added texture, you can sprinkle sunflower seeds or nuts on top just before serving. This extra crunch can complement the creaminess of the dressing and enhance the flavor profile.
Once the salad has had time to chill, give it a final toss, taste for seasoning, and adjust if necessary. It should be creamy, with the right balance of sweetness, tang, and savory notes.
Tips
For the freshest taste, use firm, vibrant green broccoli. Avoid using broccoli that’s yellowing or wilted, as this can affect the overall flavor and texture of the salad.
If you prefer a lighter option, you can substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. This will create a tangier, lower-calorie dressing without compromising too much on creaminess.
For an even richer flavor, consider using sharp cheddar cheese instead of regular cheddar. The stronger flavor will complement.
the sweetness of the dressing and the salty bacon more effectively.
If you’re making this salad ahead of time, wait until just before serving to add the bacon.
This ensures it remains crispy and doesn’t become soggy from the dressing.
If you enjoy a little more heat in your salad, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing or top the salad with some sliced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
To make the salad gluten-free, ensure your mayonnaise is free from gluten and choose bacon that hasn’t been processed with gluten-containing ingredients.
For extra crunch, try adding sunflower seeds or toasted almonds. These will add texture and a nutty flavor that complements the ingredients.
Conclusion
This broccoli salad is a simple yet flavorful dish that combines fresh ingredients with a tangy, sweet dressing It’s a fantastic option for any gathering or as a side dish to a main meal.
With its combination of textures and savory-sweet flavor, it’s sure to be a hit with your guests and family.
Whether served at a BBQ, picnic, or holiday gathering, this salad is sure to satisfy everyone’s cravings!