Broccoli Salad with Bacon Recipe

Everyone needs a recipe for the best Broccoli Salad with Bacon Recipe! This dish is loaded with crispy bacon, sweet cranberries, creamy cheese, and crunchy sunflower seeds, all brought together with a tangy homemade dressing. It’s perfect for summer barbecues, Thanksgiving gatherings, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests with a delightful side dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this salad can be ready in just 35 minutes.
• Flavorful Combination: The mix of salty bacon, sweet cranberries, and tangy dressing creates a delicious balance that everyone will love.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it chilled or at room temperature, making it adaptable for any event.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This salad is sure to impress guests at parties or family gatherings with its vibrant colors and delightful flavors.
• Healthy Twist: Packed with fresh broccoli and other nutritious ingredients, this salad offers a healthy option without sacrificing taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before you get started on your Broccoli Salad with Bacon Recipe, gather your tools for an easier cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Chef’s knife
• Large mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Baking sheet (for bacon)
• Paper towels

Importance of Each Tool

• Chef’s knife: A good chef’s knife makes chopping broccoli quick and easy while ensuring uniform pieces.
• Large mixing bowl: This provides ample space for combining all the ingredients without spilling.
• Whisk: Using a whisk helps you blend the dressing smoothly for an even flavor throughout the salad.

Ingredients

• 10-11 strips bacon (cooked)
• 2 heads broccoli (about 1 and 1/2 pounds or 5-6 cups)
• 1 cup dried cranberries
• 1/3 cup sunflower seeds (roasted and salted)
• 1 cup cheddar cheese (shredded)
• 1/3 cup chopped red onion (or more to taste)
• 1 & 1/4 cups Miracle Whip OR mayonnaise
• Zest from 1 lemon
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1 & 1/4 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon dry mustard
• 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper

How to Make Broccoli Salad with Bacon Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

Start by making the bacon. I highly recommend baking it in the oven for easier cleanup. Follow these steps:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Lay out the bacon strips on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Bake for about 15–20 minutes or until crispy.
4. Remove from oven, let cool on paper towels, then chop into bite-sized pieces.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

While the bacon cooks, mix together the dressing. In a large bowl:
1. Combine 1 and 1/4 cups of Miracle Whip OR mayonnaise.
2. Add lemon zest from one lemon.
3. Stir in one tablespoon of lemon juice and two tablespoons of white wine vinegar.
4. Incorporate one-quarter cup of sugar along with kosher salt, black pepper, dry mustard, and cayenne pepper.
5. Whisk all ingredients together until smooth.

Step 3: Chop the Broccoli

Prepare the broccoli by:
1. Taking two heads of broccoli and cutting them into small florets using your chef’s knife.
2. Optionally, chop up the stems and add them to enhance texture.

Step 4: Combine All Ingredients

Add the chopped broccoli to the bowl with your prepared dressing:
1. Mix in one cup of dried cranberries, one-third cup of roasted sunflower seeds, one cup of shredded cheddar cheese, and one-third cup of chopped red onion.
2. Reserve some bacon pieces for garnishing later; fold in most of the remaining bacon into the salad.

Step 5: Serve or Chill

Stir everything together until well combined:
1. You can serve this salad immediately or chill it in the refrigerator for an hour before serving; let it sit at room temperature for about twenty minutes if you chill it first.

Step 6: Store Leftovers

If you have leftovers:
1. Store any remaining salad covered in the fridge for up to five days.

Enjoy your delicious Broccoli Salad with Bacon Recipe, perfect for any gathering!

How to Serve Broccoli Salad with Bacon Recipe

Broccoli salad with bacon is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it at a barbecue, picnic, or holiday gathering, these serving suggestions will elevate your experience.

As a Side Dish

• Pair it with grilled meats for a classic summer meal.
• Serve alongside sandwiches for a filling lunch option.

At Potlucks

• Bring this salad to share; it’s always a hit among guests!
• Use a large bowl for easy serving and let everyone help themselves.

For Meal Prep

• Divide into individual containers for quick grab-and-go lunches.
• It stays fresh in the fridge for up to 5 days, making it perfect for weekly meal prep.

Chilled or Room Temperature

• This salad tastes great either chilled or at room temperature, catering to your serving preference.
• If you choose to chill, let it sit out for about 20 minutes before serving for the best flavor.

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How to Perfect Broccoli Salad with Bacon Recipe

To make the best broccoli salad with bacon, keep these tips in mind for maximum flavor and texture.

• Choose Fresh Broccoli: Select vibrant green florets without yellowing. Fresh broccoli enhances the salad’s taste and crunch.
• Bacon Crispiness: Bake your bacon until crispy for added flavor. Crispy bacon provides a satisfying crunch in every bite.
• Customize Ingredients: Feel free to add other ingredients like nuts or different cheeses to suit your taste preferences.
• Let It Marinate: Chill the salad for at least an hour before serving. This allows flavors to meld together beautifully.
• Save Some Toppings: Reserve some bacon, cranberries, and cheese as toppings when serving. It makes the dish visually appealing and adds freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Broccoli Salad with Bacon Recipe

Pairing side dishes with broccoli salad can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options that complement this delicious salad perfectly.

1. Grilled Chicken: Tender grilled chicken adds protein and pairs nicely with the salad’s flavor profile.
2. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn complements the savory elements of the salad and is perfect for summer barbecues.
3. Potato Chips: A crunchy side like potato chips is great for snacking alongside this refreshing dish.
4. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw balances the richness of the bacon while adding more vegetables to your meal.
5. Macaroni and Cheese: This creamy comfort food is a classic pairing that appeals to both kids and adults alike.
6. Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread as a hearty addition that provides great texture alongside the salad.
7. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad offers a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the broccoli dish.
8. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with rice and beans can be filling and nutritious companions.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a delicious Broccoli Salad with Bacon Recipe is simple, but there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Skipping the bacon crispiness test: Ensure your bacon is crispy before adding it to the salad. Undercooked bacon can lead to a chewy texture that detracts from the overall dish.
• Ignoring the vegetable prep: Not chopping broccoli into bite-sized pieces can make the salad hard to eat. Aim for small florets for a better texture and easier serving.
• Overdressing the salad: Adding too much dressing can overwhelm the flavors. Start with a little and adjust according to taste.
• Not letting it chill: Serving this salad immediately after preparation can miss out on flavor enhancement. Letting it sit in the fridge allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
• Forgetting about leftovers: Leaving leftovers uncovered can lead to drying out. Always store your Broccoli Salad with Bacon Recipe in an airtight container for optimal freshness.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your salad in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for about 5 days in the fridge.

Freezing Broccoli Salad with Bacon Recipe

• This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it without the dressing for up to 3 months.
• To freeze, place in freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion.

Reheating Broccoli Salad with Bacon Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for 10-15 minutes. Cover with foil to prevent drying.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds, stirring in between until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat, stirring frequently until heated evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making this Broccoli Salad with Bacon Recipe, you’re not alone. Here are some common inquiries.

Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh broccoli works best for this recipe as it retains its crunch and flavor.

How can I make this Broccoli Salad with Bacon Recipe healthier?

You can substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise or Miracle Whip to reduce calories while still keeping it creamy.

Can I add other ingredients?

Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate nuts, seeds, or different cheeses based on your preference.

What should I serve this salad with?

This salad pairs well with grilled meats or sandwiches, making it great for summer barbecues or holiday gatherings.

How do I adjust serving sizes?

Simply increase or decrease ingredient amounts proportionally based on how many servings you need.

Final Thoughts

This Broccoli Salad with Bacon Recipe is not only delightful but also versatile. It’s perfect for gatherings or everyday meals and allows room for customization. Try adding your favorite ingredients or adjusting the dressing to suit your taste!