This Broccoli Salad Is Better Than I’ve Ever Had At A Deli!
An Irresistible Broccoli Salad You Can’t Miss!
I’ve sampled numerous broccoli salad recipes, and while each has its unique flair, there’s one ingredient that I believe is absolutely essential: bacon. Whenever I spot a broccoli salad, bacon is usually part of the mix. Of course, not everyone indulges in meat, and that’s perfectly okay. Sometimes, I love to mix things up by adding extra veggies like a hint of jalapeño for some spice or a bit of carrot for sweetness. The beauty of this recipe is that it’s a wonderful canvas for your creativity!
Our friends at Prairie Californian have a noteworthy comment:
“But if you’ve never found a broccoli salad you like, this one is bound to make the cut. I’ve had even non-broccoli fans tell me they like this!”
Even the most selective veggie eater will find something to love in this salad!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This salad is a perfect balance of crunchy, savory, and sweet. The combination of fresh broccoli, crispy bacon, and a creamy dressing makes it absolutely irresistible. It’s not just a side dish; it’s a conversation starter!
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot
- Large mixing bowl
- Medium mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Knife and cutting board
Ingredients
Salad
- 3 pounds broccoli (about 3-4 heads)
- 1/2 red onion, diced
- 1 cup sunflower seeds, roasted
- 3/4 cup golden raisins
- 1/2 pound bacon (about 8-10 slices), cooked and chopped
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
Dressing
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/3 cup sour cream (feel free to add a bit more)
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1/4 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil over medium-high heat. Add the broccoli and cook for 30 seconds to one minute.
- Transfer the broccoli to an ice bath or rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
- In a large bowl, combine the blanched and chopped broccoli, diced onion, sunflower seeds, raisins, bacon, and shredded cheese.
- In a medium bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, sugar, salt, and pepper to create the dressing. Whisk until smooth.
- Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients. Gently toss to ensure everything is well-coated.
- Season with additional salt and pepper if desired.
- Chill the salad for a couple of hours or overnight for the best flavor. Serve and enjoy!
Tips for Success
- Ensure the broccoli is properly blanched to maintain its crunch and vibrant color.
- Adjust the amount of sugar in the dressing to suit your personal taste.
- Let the salad chill for a few hours to allow the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Additional Tips and Variations
- For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and add toasted almonds for extra crunch.
- Consider adding a dash of apple cider vinegar to the dressing for a tangy twist.
- If you enjoy a bit of heat, finely chop a jalapeño and add it to the salad.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
Calories: 300 | Protein: 10g | Carbohydrates: 20g | Fat: 20g | Fiber: 5g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, this salad is perfect for making ahead. In fact, it tastes even better after a couple of hours in the fridge.
What can I substitute for sunflower seeds?
Pumpkin seeds or chopped almonds are great alternatives if you don’t have sunflower seeds on hand.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Fresh broccoli is recommended for the best texture, but if you’re in a pinch, frozen broccoli can work. Just be sure to thaw and drain it well.
Conclusion
This broccoli salad is not just a dish; it’s an experience waiting to happen. With its delightful blend of flavors and textures, it’s bound to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Give it a try, and don’t hesitate to share your own twists and experiences in the comments below!
