Why Make This Recipe
Broccoli salad is a fresh and crunchy dish that everyone loves. It’s perfect for gatherings, picnics, or just a simple meal at home. This salad combines healthy broccoli with crispy bacon and a creamy dressing, making it both nutritious and delicious. It’s easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time, making it a great choice for busy days.
How to Make Broccoli Salad
Ingredients:
- Fresh broccoli
- Smoked bacon
- Red onion
- Sliced almonds
- Mayonnaise
- Sugar
- Vinegar
- Salt
- Pepper
Directions:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine chopped fresh broccoli, cooked and crumbled smoked bacon, diced red onion, and sliced almonds.
- In a separate bowl, mix together mayonnaise, sugar, vinegar, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture and toss until well combined.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. Enjoy as a refreshing side dish!
How to Serve Broccoli Salad
You can serve broccoli salad on its own as a side dish or as part of a larger meal. It pairs well with grilled meats, sandwiches, or any barbecue dish. Try garnishing it with extra sliced almonds or a sprinkle of parsley for a nice touch.
How to Store Broccoli Salad
To store broccoli salad, keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for about 3 to 4 days. Just give it a good stir before serving again, as the dressing may settle.
Tips to Make Broccoli Salad
- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
- If you want more crunch, add some chopped celery or green apples.
- For a healthier twist, you can use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise.
- Make sure to chill the salad for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors mingle.
Variation
You can add other ingredients to customize your broccoli salad. Consider adding shredded cheese, diced bell peppers, or dried cranberries for a sweet touch.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen broccoli for this salad?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli, but it’s best to thaw and drain it well before using it to prevent a watery salad.
2. Is this salad good for meal prep?
Absolutely! This salad can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge, making it a great option for meal prep.
3. Can I make this salad vegan?
Yes, you can make a vegan version by omitting the bacon and using a vegan mayo substitute. You could also add chickpeas for protein.
Broccoli Salad
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 4 cups Fresh broccoli, chopped Use fresh for best flavor.
- 6 slices Smoked bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup Red onion, diced
- 1/2 cup Sliced almonds Can garnish with extra for serving.
Dressing Ingredients
- 1/2 cup Mayonnaise Can substitute with Greek yogurt for a healthier twist.
- 1 tablespoon Sugar
- 2 tablespoons Vinegar Adjust to taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt
- 1/4 teaspoon Pepper
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large mixing bowl, combine chopped fresh broccoli, cooked and crumbled smoked bacon, diced red onion, and sliced almonds.
- In a separate bowl, mix together mayonnaise, sugar, vinegar, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture and toss until well combined.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.