This Amish Broccoli Salad is a timeless classic, combining fresh, crunchy vegetables, savory bacon, tangy dressing, and a hint of sweetness from raisins or cranberries. Perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or as a delicious side dish, this recipe is sure to impress with its irresistible flavor and texture combination!
Why This Recipe Works
Fresh Ingredients: The crispness of broccoli pairs beautifully with the creamy dressing.
Balanced Flavors: A mix of savory bacon, sweet raisins, and tangy apple cider vinegar creates a harmonious flavor profile.
Great Texture: Sunflower seeds and bacon add a satisfying crunch, complementing the fresh vegetables.
Make-Ahead Friendly: This salad tastes even better after chilling, making it ideal for prep-ahead meals or events.
Ingredients
Salad:
4 cups fresh broccoli florets: Chopped into bite-sized pieces for easy eating.
1 cup cheddar cheese: Shredded for a rich, savory element.
1/2 cup red onion: Finely chopped for a mild bite and color.
1/2 cup bacon: Cooked and crumbled for a smoky, savory addition.
1/2 cup sunflower seeds: Adds crunch and a nutty flavor.
1/2 cup raisins or dried cranberries: Provides sweetness to balance the savory notes.
Dressing:
1 cup mayonnaise: The creamy base for the dressing.
1/4 cup sugar: Sweetens and balances the tangy vinegar.
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar: Adds a zesty tang to the dressing.
How to Make Amish Broccoli Salad
Prepare the Salad Ingredients
Chop broccoli into small florets and add them to a large mixing bowl.
Add cheddar cheese, red onion, bacon, sunflower seeds, and raisins or dried cranberries.
Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sugar, and apple cider vinegar until smooth and well combined.
Combine and Toss
Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture. Toss thoroughly to ensure every piece is coated with the creamy dressing.
Chill and Serve
Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. This step allows the flavors to meld and enhances the overall taste.
Tips for Recipe Success
Fresh Broccoli: Ensure your broccoli is fresh and firm for the best texture.
Customize Add-Ins: Swap raisins for dried cranberries, sunflower seeds for sliced almonds, or cheddar cheese for gouda to suit your taste.
Pre-Cooked Bacon: Save time by using store-bought pre-cooked bacon or cook it in advance.
Sweetness Adjustment: Reduce or increase the sugar in the dressing based on your preferred sweetness level.
Serving Suggestions
As a Side Dish: Serve this salad with grilled chicken, roasted turkey, or pulled pork.
At Potlucks: A crowd-pleaser that pairs well with burgers, ribs, or sandwiches.
Light Lunch: Enjoy it on its own for a fresh and flavorful midday meal.
Storing and Make-Ahead Tips
Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Stir before serving as the dressing may settle.
Make Ahead: Prepare the dressing and salad separately up to 1 day in advance, then combine just before serving for maximum freshness.
Recipe Details
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 6-8
This Amish Broccoli Salad is the perfect mix of crunchy, creamy, and tangy goodness. Whether you’re preparing it for a casual family meal or a festive gathering, it’s guaranteed to be a hit. Enjoy!