This crunchy broccoli salad is bursting with fresh flavors! It features tender broccoli, crispy bacon, and creamy cheese, all tossed together for a tasty side dish.
Who doesn’t love bacon and cheese? I can’t resist sneaking bites while I make it! It’s perfect for picnics or family dinners—quick and so good!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets provide the base for this salad. If broccoli isn’t available, you could use cauliflower or even a mix of veggies like snap peas or bell peppers for a different crunch.
Bacon: Cooked bacon adds a smoky flavor. For a healthier or vegetarian option, try using turkey bacon or crispy chickpeas for that crunch!
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar cheese gives a robust taste. If you prefer, you can use mild cheddar, a cheese blend, or even crumbled feta for a tangy twist.
Red Grapes: These provide natural sweetness. If grapes aren’t your thing, try diced apples or dried cranberries for a fruity touch.
Mayonnaise: This is the base for the creamy dressing. You can substitute Greek yogurt or a dairy-free mayo for a lighter version.
How Do I Ensure My Broccoli Stays Crunchy?
Keeping broccoli crisp is crucial for this salad. The key is in how you prepare it:
- Choose fresh, bright green broccoli; avoid limp or yellowing florets.
- After rinsing, make sure to dry the broccoli well. Excess water can make the salad soggy.
- To enhance crunch, consider blanching — briefly boiling the florets, then plunging them into ice water. This keeps them vibrant and crisp!
By following these tips, you’ll have a refreshing salad that stays crunchy and delicious! Enjoy!
Easy Broccoli Salad with Bacon and Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 1 large head broccoli)
- 1 cup cooked bacon, chopped (about 6 slices)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 3/4 cup red grapes, halved
- 1/2 cup sunflower seeds (optional)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or sugar
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful broccoli salad takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus an additional hour to chill in the refrigerator. It’s a quick and easy dish that comes together in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Broccoli:
Start by rinsing the broccoli florets under cool water and then pat them dry with a clean towel. If the florets are too large, simply cut them into bite-sized pieces to make them easier to eat.
2. Cook the Bacon:
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until it’s crispy, which should take about 6-8 minutes. Once cooked, remove it from the skillet and let it drain on paper towels. Once cool, chop the bacon into smaller pieces.
3. Mix the Dressing:
In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey (or sugar), salt, and pepper. Use a whisk to mix these ingredients together until you have a smooth dressing.
4. Combine Salad Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the broccoli, chopped bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, finely chopped red onion, halved red grapes, and sunflower seeds if you’re using them. These ingredients will create a colorful mix!
5. Toss with Dressing:
Pour the dressing you prepared over the salad mixture. Gently toss everything together with your hands or a large spoon until all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
6. Chill and Serve:
Cover the salad with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate it for at least 1 hour. This chilling time allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully. Before serving, stir the salad again to ensure everything is well mixed.
Now you have a delicious, crunchy broccoli salad, perfect for any occasion! Enjoy the delightful combination of smoky bacon, creamy cheese, and sweet grapes!
FAQ for Easy Broccoli Salad with Bacon and Cheese
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli in This Recipe?
Yes, you can! However, make sure to thaw and drain the frozen broccoli thoroughly to remove excess moisture before using it in the salad. Fresh broccoli provides a better crunch, but thawed broccoli will still work nicely!
How Can I Make This Salad Vegetarian?
To make this salad vegetarian, simply omit the bacon and replace it with crispy chickpeas or roasted nuts for added crunch. You can also enhance the flavor with smoked paprika to mimic that smoky taste!
Can I Make This Broccoli Salad Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the salad a day in advance. Just mix everything together without the dressing and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, add the dressing and toss just before presenting it for the best texture!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, but the broccoli may soften slightly. Simply give it a good stir before serving again!
