Go Back

Broccoli Salad with Bacon

This broccoli salad with bacon is a delightful dish perfect for gatherings or as a refreshing side. With crisp broccoli, savory bacon, and sweet cranberries, it's a flavorful and textured dish that will leave you craving more.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 4 Servings
Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Medium mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Knife
  • Cutting board

Ingredients
  

For the Salad

  • 5 cups broccoli florets about 400 g
  • 6 slices bacon cooked and crumbled
  • 1/4 small red onion finely chopped, about 40 g
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese about 100 g
  • 1/3 cup sunflower seeds about 45 g
  • 1/3 cup dried cranberries or raisins about 45 g

For the Dressing

  • 3/4 cup mayonnaise 180 g
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar 15 ml
  • 1 to 2 tbsp sugar or honey
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare the Bacon

  • Cook the bacon until it's crisp, filling your kitchen with an irresistible aroma. Let it cool, then crumble it into small pieces to add that delightful crunch to your salad.

Step 2: Mix the Salad Ingredients

  • In a large bowl, combine the broccoli florets, finely chopped red onion, shredded cheddar cheese, sunflower seeds, and dried cranberries. The vibrant colors will have you smiling as you mix.
  • Tip: For an added layer of flavor, consider toasting the sunflower seeds lightly in a dry skillet before adding them to the salad.

Step 3: Whisk the Dressing

  • In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar or honey, salt, and black pepper. Achieving a smooth dressing will ensure each bite of salad is perfectly coated.

Step 4: Combine Salad and Dressing

  • Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and mix gently until everything is evenly coated. The luscious dressing will pull all the flavors together beautifully.

Step 5: Add the Bacon and Chill

  • Fold in the crumbled bacon, stirring carefully to maintain the salad's crunch. Chill the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and deepen.

Notes

Pro tips for Broccoli Salad with Bacon:
  • Use fresh, vibrant broccoli for the best crunch.
  • Choose high-quality bacon for flavor; thick-cut works wonderfully.
  • Adjust the sweetness of the dressing to your liking; taste as you go.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days.
  • Feel free to tweak the ingredients; add nuts, swap fruits, or use a different cheese.