Name: Classic Broccoli Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 8 slices Bacon (Cooked and crumbled, about ¾ cup in total); ½ cup Mayonnaise; ¾ cup Greek yogurt; 2 tablespoons Apple cider vinegar; 1 tablespoon Honey; ½ teaspoon Salt; ½ teaspoon Ground black pepper; 2 heads Broccoli (About 1 lb, cut into bite-sized florets); ½ medium Red onion (Thinly sliced, about ¼ cup); ½ cup Dried cranberries; ¼ cup Roasted sunflower kernels; 1 cup Sharp cheddar cheese (Cubed small, about 150 g)

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When you think of classic salads, broccoli salad may not immediately come to mind, but trust me, this vibrant and crunchy dish is a game changer! The balance of flavors and textures in this Classic Broccoli Salad makes it an ideal side dish for any gathering—from grilling season to holiday feasts.

It’s packed with the crunch of fresh broccoli, the saltiness of crispy bacon, and the sweetness of dried cranberries, all bound together by a creamy dressing.

It’s nutritious, satisfying, and always a hit at the potluck!

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

This Classic Broccoli Salad is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile.

It comes together in just a matter of minutes and is a fantastic way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet.

Plus, with its delightful mix of flavors, you’ll find it hard to resist going back for seconds.

Whether you’re serving it as a side dish for summer barbecues or bringing it along to a family gathering, this salad is always well-received.

Let’s dive into the easy steps to create this mouthwatering salad!

Ingredients

8 slices bacon cooked and crumbled, about ¾ cup in total
½ cup (125 g) mayonnaise
¾ cup (63 g) Greek yogurt
2 tablespoons (30 ml) apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon (15 ml) honey
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon ground black pepper
2 heads broccoli about 1 lb, cut into bite-sized florets
½ medium red onion thinly sliced, about ¼ cup
½ cup dried cranberries
¼ cup roasted sunflower kernels
1 cup (150 g) sharp cheddar cheese cubed small

How To Make Classic Broccoli Salad

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

Start by cooking your bacon until it’s crispy.

You can do this in a skillet over medium heat or bake it in the oven for an easier cleanup.

Once cooked, transfer the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to drain the excess fat.

Once it cools, crumble it into bite-sized pieces.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and black pepper until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

You want a balanced flavor, so taste and adjust seasonings as necessary.

Step 3: Combine the Salad Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, add the broccoli florets, sliced red onion, dried cranberries, roasted sunflower kernels, and cubed sharp cheddar cheese.

Toss gently to combine all the ingredients.

Step 4: Add the Dressing

Pour the prepared dressing over the broccoli mixture and gently fold everything together until the vegetables and other ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.

Step 5: Stir in the Bacon

Finally, add the crumbled bacon to the salad, reserving a small amount for garnish if desired.

Give it one last gentle toss to incorporate the bacon.

Step 6: Chill and Serve

Cover the salad with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Serve chilled, and enjoy this deliciously crunchy salad!

Expert Tips

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a sprinkle of lemon juice or zest to the dressing.
If you prefer a lower fat version, you can substitute half the mayonnaise with additional Greek yogurt.
Letting the salad sit for a few hours or even overnight will enhance the flavors even further, making it ideal for meal prep.
Feel free to adjust the amount of bacon according to your preference—more bacon means more flavor!

Variations and Customizations

Replace the cheddar cheese with crumbled feta or goat cheese for a different taste.
Add diced apple or pear for a touch of fruitiness.
Incorporate additional nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
Experiment with different dried fruits like raisins or chopped dates.

How to Store Leftovers

Leftover Classic Broccoli Salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

The flavors will continue to meld, making the salad even tastier the next day.

Just be sure to give it a good stir before serving, as some separation may occur.

FAQ

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! This salad is perfect for making ahead.

It’s best when the flavors have had time to meld together, so feel free to prepare it the night before and keep it refrigerated.

Is there a substitution for bacon?

Yes! You can use crispy turkey bacon or even a plant-based bacon alternative if you prefer a meatless option.

Alternatively, you can skip the bacon altogether for a vegetarian version.

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

While fresh broccoli is best for texture and flavor, you can use thawed, frozen broccoli in a pinch.

Just be sure to drain it well to remove excess moisture.

What should I serve with broccoli salad?

This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, sandwiches, or as part of a buffet spread.

It’s also great to enjoy alongside hearty soups or even on its own for a light and healthy meal.

Conclusion

This Classic Broccoli Salad is not only delicious but also incredibly satisfying, making it the perfect addition to any meal.

Its vibrant colors and textures will brighten up your table and delight your guests.

With its creamy dressing, crunchy vegetables, and delightful pops of sweetness from the cranberries, this salad is bound to become a favorite in your household.

So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to impress everyone with this delightful dish that’s sure to have everyone asking for the recipe! Enjoy!

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