Broccoli Salad with Bacon Recipe

Everyone needs a recipe for the best Broccoli Salad with Bacon! This one is stuffed with bacon, cranberry, cheese, sunflower seeds, and tangy homemade dressing. It is easy to make and is a huge crowd pleaser. The perfect side dish to bring to your summer barbecue or even to serve at Thanksgiving!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor Combination: The mix of bacon, cranberries, and cheese creates a delightful taste that everyone will enjoy.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this broccoli salad can be made quickly.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family gathering or a holiday feast, this salad fits right in.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to adjust the ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
• Crowd-Pleasing Side Dish: Its vibrant colors and rich flavors make it an attractive addition to any table.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Broccoli Salad with Bacon Recipe successfully, you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping broccoli and other ingredients quick and easy.
• Large mixing bowl: Ensures there’s enough room to combine all the salad ingredients without making a mess.
• Baking sheet: Ideal for cooking bacon evenly in the oven without splatter.

Ingredients

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. So much easier, and no splatter. However you want to do it, cook 10-11 slices of bacon to your desired level of crispness. Then set aside on paper towels to cool. Once cool, chop into bite-size pieces.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

While the bacon cooks, mix together the ingredients for the dressing. In a large bowl add:
1 and 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 and 1/4 teaspoons kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon dry mustard
1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper

Whisk all dressing ingredients together until smooth.

Step 3: Chop the Broccoli

Add the ingredients for the salad to the bowl with the dressing. Start by chopping your broccoli using a chef’s knife. Aim for small florets so there are no giant bites. I also like to save the stems, chop them up, and add them into the salad, but you can leave them out if you prefer.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Add all chopped broccoli into the large bowl. Then include:
1 cup dried cranberries
1/3 cup sunflower seeds
1 cup cheddar cheese
Most of the bacon (reserve some for topping)

Stir it all together gently until everything is well-coated in dressing.

Step 5: Serve

This salad can be served at room temperature or chilled. If you chill it first, let it sit on the counter for about 20 minutes before serving.

Step 6: Store Leftovers

Store leftovers covered in the fridge! This salad will keep well for about five days.

How to Serve Broccoli Salad with Bacon Recipe

Broccoli Salad with Bacon is a versatile dish that can elevate any meal. Whether it’s a casual gathering or a holiday feast, serving suggestions can enhance your dining experience.

As a Side Dish

• Perfect for barbecues: Serve alongside grilled meats for a refreshing contrast.
• Great with sandwiches: Pair it with your favorite deli sandwiches or wraps for lunch.

At Family Gatherings

• Crowd-pleasing: This salad is sure to be a hit at potlucks and family reunions.
• Easy to share: Provide individual servings for guests, making it easy to enjoy.

For Holiday Celebrations

• Thanksgiving essential: Its vibrant colors and flavors add festivity to the holiday table.
• Christmas gatherings: The combination of bacon and cranberries brings seasonal warmth and cheer.

On a Picnic

• Easy transport: Pack in a cooler for a delicious outdoor meal.
• Light yet filling: Provides enough sustenance without weighing you down during outdoor activities.

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How to Perfect Broccoli Salad with Bacon Recipe

Perfecting your Broccoli Salad with Bacon is all about enhancing flavors and textures. Here are some tips to ensure your salad shines.

• Fresh ingredients: Use fresh broccoli and quality bacon for the best flavor and crunch.
• Chill before serving: Allow the salad to chill in the fridge for at least an hour; this helps meld the flavors together.
• Customize toppings: Feel free to add other ingredients like nuts or seeds for added texture and taste.
• Adjust dressing sweetness: Modify the sugar in the dressing based on your preference for sweetness—taste as you mix!
• Consider adding herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley or dill can brighten up the dish even more.
• Mix just before serving: If preparing in advance, keep the dressing separate until right before serving to maintain freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Broccoli Salad with Bacon Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Broccoli Salad with Bacon can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options that complement this tasty salad.

1. Grilled Chicken: Juicy grilled chicken breasts seasoned simply make a perfect main course.
2. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a delightful crunch and color, making it ideal for summer cookouts.
3. Baked Potatoes: Fluffy baked potatoes topped with sour cream or cheese provide hearty satisfaction alongside your salad.
4. Deviled Eggs: Classic deviled eggs bring creamy goodness that’s easy to prepare and loved by all ages.
5. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables roasted until tender adds depth and flavor variety.
6. Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread offers an irresistible aroma and pairs well with salads, perfect for soaking up any dressing left on plates.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a delicious Broccoli Salad with Bacon Recipe is easy, but there are some common pitfalls to be aware of.

• Overcooking the bacon: Cooking bacon too long can result in a burnt flavor. Bake it instead for evenly cooked, crispy pieces.
• Ignoring the dressing balance: A salad can be ruined by too much or too little dressing. Taste as you go and adjust the ingredients for the right balance.
• Using large broccoli pieces: Large florets can make the salad hard to eat. Aim for small, bite-sized pieces for easier serving and eating.
• Not chilling before serving: Serving the salad immediately may not allow flavors to meld. Chill it in the fridge for at least an hour for the best taste.
• Neglecting to reserve toppings: Forgetting to hold back some toppings can reduce visual appeal. Save a bit of bacon, cheese, or cranberries for garnishing before serving.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• The salad will stay fresh for about 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Broccoli Salad with Bacon Recipe

• It’s best not to freeze this salad due to its ingredients, especially the dressing and bacon which may change texture.
• If necessary, freeze without dressing in a suitable container for up to 3 months.

Reheating Broccoli Salad with Bacon Recipe

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds until warm, stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat while stirring. Avoid cooking too long to prevent wilting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making the Broccoli Salad with Bacon Recipe.

Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh broccoli is recommended for this recipe as it retains its crunchiness better than frozen.

How do I customize my Broccoli Salad with Bacon Recipe?

Feel free to add your favorite nuts or substitute different cheeses like feta or goat cheese for a unique twist.

What occasions are best for serving this salad?

This Broccoli Salad with Bacon Recipe is perfect for summer barbecues, potlucks, and holiday gatherings like Thanksgiving.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

You can prepare it a day ahead. Just keep it chilled and add toppings right before serving.

Final Thoughts

The Broccoli Salad with Bacon Recipe is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that caters to all tastes. It’s versatile enough for any occasion, from casual picnics to formal dinners. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients and enjoy!