Broccoli Salad with Bacon and Cheddar Cheese
Fresh, vibrant, and packed with flavor, Broccoli Salad with Bacon and Cheddar Cheese is an irresistible side dish that complements any meal or stands alone as a savory snack. This salad combines the crispness of fresh broccoli, the savory crunch of bacon, the richness of cheddar cheese, and the tangy zing of a creamy dressing. Whether you’re preparing for a family get-together or simply looking to enjoy a delightful side dish on a regular day, this Broccoli Salad promises to please your taste buds and impress your guests. Let’s explore this exciting recipe in further detail, embracing both the joy of preparation and the satisfaction of eating.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients
Experience the perfection of combining simple, fresh ingredients to create a flavorful delight. Here’s what you’ll need to assemble this vibrant salad:
- Broccoli Florets: You’ll need 4 cups of fresh, crisp broccoli florets to set the foundation of this salad.
- Bacon: Cook and crumble 8 slices of bacon to add a savory, smoky element.
- Cheddar Cheese: The dish calls for 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese for a creamier texture and cheesy flavor.
- Red Onion: Finely chop ½ cup of red onion to introduce a subtle, tangy taste.
- Sunflower Seeds: Use ½ cup of sunflower seeds for an extra crunch and nutty flavor.
- Mayonnaise: The dressing requires 1 cup of mayonnaise for a creamy base.
- Apple Cider Vinegar: Add 2 tablespoons to lend a tangy accent to the dressing.
- Sugar: 2 tablespoons of sugar are needed to balance flavors with a hint of sweetness.
- Salt and Pepper: Season to taste to enhance the flavors of the salad.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Begin by washing the broccoli florets thoroughly under cold water. Pat them dry with a clean towel and set them aside. Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Once cooked, place the bacon on a plate lined with a paper towel to drain excess grease. After cooling, crumble the bacon into small pieces. Shred the cheddar cheese, finely chop the red onion, and gather the sunflower seeds.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This dressing will provide the salad with a luscious coating and a tangy-sweet flavor.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
In a large bowl, combine the broccoli, crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped red onion, and sunflower seeds. Toss the ingredients together to ensure even distribution.
Step 4: Add the Dressing
Pour the prepared dressing over the salad mixture. Use a spoon or salad tongs to gently toss the ingredients, ensuring the dressing coats all the components evenly.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
Season the salad with salt and pepper to taste. Transfer the salad to the refrigerator and chill for at least 1 hour before serving. Chilling allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a deliciously refreshing salad experience.
Notes
Choosing the Best Broccoli
When selecting broccoli for your salad, opt for firm, bright green florets with tightly closed buds. This indicates freshness, ensuring a crisp, enjoyable texture in the salad. Steer clear of broccoli with yellowing florets or a rubbery feel, as these may suggest over-maturity or staleness, impacting both taste and texture.
Enhancing Flavor with Additional Ingredients
To personalize and elevate your Broccoli Salad, consider adding dried cranberries or raisins for a sweet contrast to the savory ingredients. Sliced almonds or walnuts can provide a nutty twist, enhancing the crunch. Experimenting with these additional elements can tailor the salad to your taste preferences without detracting from its classic cherished essence.
Adjusting the Dressing
If you prefer a lighter dressing, substitute part of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. This change maintains the creamy texture while offering a tangier taste with fewer calories. Adjust the amount of sugar and vinegar to taste as well, ensuring the dressing aligns perfectly with your flavor preferences.
Ensuring Perfect Bacon Crispiness
For crispy bacon every time, start with a cold pan and cook the bacon strips over medium heat. This method allows the fat to render slowly, resulting in a satisfyingly crisp texture. Make sure to turn the bacon occasionally for even cooking. Once done, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any remaining grease.
Storing and Serving Suggestions
Broccoli Salad with Bacon and Cheddar Cheese is best served chilled, but it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Avoid keeping it longer, as the ingredients may start to lose their appeal and texture. For a different culinary experience, serve the salad in lettuce cups or atop a bed of leafy greens.