Broccoli Salad with Bacon

Broccoli Salad with Bacon is a classic side dish that brings together crisp, fresh broccoli florets, smoky bacon, sweet dried cranberries or raisins, crunchy sunflower seeds, and a creamy, tangy dressing. It is a dish that balances texture and flavor beautifully—each bite gives you freshness, richness, and crunch. This salad has been a staple at potlucks, barbecues, and family gatherings for decades because it is incredibly easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it transforms simple ingredients into a salad that feels hearty, flavorful, and satisfying. The combination of sweet, salty, smoky, and tangy makes it irresistible. It is also versatile—you can make it ahead, customize it however you like, and serve it with almost any meal. Plus, it’s one of those salads that tastes even better after sitting for a few hours in the refrigerator, making it perfect for gatherings and meal prep.

Why It's a Must-Try Dish

This broccoli salad is a must-try because it offers:

• A refreshing yet rich flavor profile
• A no-cook (or minimal cook) preparation
• A nutrient-dense base with broccoli
• A crunchy, satisfying texture
• The rare advantage of being even better the next day

If you're looking for a side dish that’s simple but impressive, this is it.

Recipe Details

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10 minutes (for bacon)
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Approximate Calories per Serving: 280–320 calories
  (This may vary depending on dressing and bacon used.)
• Course: Side Dish / Salad
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

For the Salad

• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 2 medium heads)
• 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/3 cup sunflower seeds or chopped nuts
• 1/3 cup dried cranberries or raisins
• 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion

For the Dressing

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar or honey
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Cooking Directions

1. Cook the bacon until crispy, drain, and crumble.
2. Wash and cut the broccoli into small bite-sized florets.
3. In a large bowl, combine the broccoli, bacon, cheese, sunflower seeds, cranberries, and red onion.
4. Whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar (or honey), salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
5. Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss well to coat.
6. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving for best flavor.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Prepare the bacon by frying or baking it until fully crisp. Allow to cool and crumble into small pieces.
2. Rinse broccoli heads under cold water and cut them into small florets for easy eating.
3. Add broccoli florets to a large mixing bowl.
4. Add shredded cheddar cheese, dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, and chopped red onion.
5. Add the crumbled bacon to the bowl.
6. In a separate small bowl, whisk the mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth.
7. Pour the dressing evenly over the salad ingredients.
8. Toss thoroughly until everything is well coated.
9. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to blend.

How to Serve This Recipe

• Serve chilled as a side dish for barbecues, grilled meats, sandwiches, or holiday meals.
• For potlucks or parties, serve in a large chilled bowl so it stays crisp longer.
• It also works well as part of a lunch meal prep.

Recipe Tips

• Blanching the broccoli for 1 minute in boiling water and shocking in ice water will make it more tender while keeping it crisp and bright green.
• For healthier dressing, replace half the mayo with Greek yogurt.
• Allowing the salad to sit in the fridge enhances the flavor significantly.
• Use thick-cut bacon for a more satisfying crunch.

Variations

Creamier Version

Add 2 tablespoons of sour cream to the dressing for a richer taste.

Fruit-Boosted Version

Add chopped apples or grapes for extra sweetness and freshness.

Nutty Version

Use chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds instead of sunflower seeds.

Keto-Friendly Version

Use sugar-free sweetener and omit cranberries to reduce carbs.

Vegetarian Version

Replace bacon with roasted chickpeas or smoked almonds for crunch and flavor.

Freezing and Storage Time

• Storage:
  Store broccoli salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3–4 days.
  The flavor improves the next day, but the bacon may soften slightly.
• Freezing:
  Broccoli salad does not freeze well due to mayo-based dressing and fresh vegetables. Freezing will alter texture and create a watery consistency.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl
• Small bowl for dressing
• Knife and cutting board
• Whisk
• Frying pan or baking tray (for bacon)
• Airtight container (for storage)

Conclusion

Broccoli Salad with Bacon is a timeless, delicious, and easy-to-make side dish perfect for gatherings, barbecues, or everyday meals. Its irresistible combination of crunch, creaminess, and smoky-sweet flavor makes it a favorite for all ages. With simple ingredients, flexible variations, and great make-ahead potential, this recipe is one you’ll return to again and again.