Creamy Broccoli Salad with Bacon is a delicious and colorful dish that’s perfect for any meal. It’s crunchy, creamy, and full of flavor. This salad brings together fresh broccoli, savory bacon, and sweet craisins to create a mix that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re hosting a BBQ or just need a fresh side for dinner, this salad is sure to impress!
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is a great choice for many reasons. First, it’s easy to prepare. You can whip it up in no time, making it ideal for busy days or last-minute gatherings. Second, it combines healthy veggies with tasty ingredients like bacon and cheddar cheese, so you get the best of both worlds. Plus, it’s always a hit with kids and adults alike! Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again.
How to Make Creamy Broccoli Salad with Bacon
Making Creamy Broccoli Salad with Bacon is simple and fun. Let’s dive into what you’ll need and how to put it all together!
Ingredients:
- 6 cups broccoli florets
- 1.5 cups cheddar cheese
- 2/3 cup chopped craisins
- 2/3 cup diced red onion
- 2/3 cup crumbled bacon
- 1/2 cup sunflower kernels
- 1.25 cups mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 4 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Directions:
- In a large bowl, combine the broccoli florets, cheddar cheese, craisins, red onion, crumbled bacon, and sunflower kernels.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated.
- Chill in the refrigerator before serving.
How to Serve Creamy Broccoli Salad with Bacon
This salad is best served chilled, making it a refreshing side for any meal. It pairs well with grilled meats, sandwiches, or can be enjoyed on its own for a light lunch. You can add some extra sunflower kernels on top for a nice crunch before serving!
How to Store Creamy Broccoli Salad with Bacon
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best to eat the salad within 3-4 days. If you feel it has lost some creaminess, just add a little more mayo or sour cream when you serve it!
Tips to Make Creamy Broccoli Salad with Bacon
- Make sure to chop the broccoli into small, bite-sized pieces for easy eating.
- Feel free to cook the bacon until crispy for that extra crunch.
- You can take out the bacon or use turkey bacon for a lighter option!
Variation
You can customize this salad by adding other ingredients like chopped apples, diced bell peppers, or even nuts for added texture. If you like a bit of spice, try adding some jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing!
FAQs
1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare this salad a day in advance. Just keep it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
2. Is there a way to make it healthier?
Absolutely! You can use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream and light mayo to cut down on calories.
3. Can I use frozen broccoli?
Fresh broccoli is best, but you can use frozen broccoli. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before using!
