Classic Bacon Broccoli Salad Recipe

The Classic Bacon Broccoli Salad is a staple at many gatherings, combining fresh, crunchy broccoli with the savory delight of bacon, all tied together with a sweet mayonnaise dressing. This dish is not only flavorful but also offers a beautiful blend of textures, from the crispy bacon and chewy raisins to the creamy dressing. Ideal for potlucks, picnics, and family dinners, this salad is versatile and can be made ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

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Ingredients

For the Broccoli Salad:

• 8 cups broccoli florets, chopped very small
• ½ cup red onion, finely diced
• ½ cup raisins
• ⅓ cup salted sunflower seeds, hulled
• ½ pound bacon, cooked and then crumbled into small pieces

For the Sweet Mayonnaise Dressing:

• 1 cup mayonnaise
• ¼-1/3 cup white sugar (adjust based on your sweetness preference)
• 1-2 tablespoons white vinegar (adjust based on your desired tanginess)

Preparation

Step 1: Begin by preparing your broccoli. Ensure the florets are chopped into very small pieces for a pleasant bite-sized eating experience. This helps in absorbing the dressing better and mixing with other ingredients evenly.

Step 2: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, finely diced red onion, raisins, and sunflower seeds. Add the crumbled bacon last to keep it crisp.

Step 3: To make the dressing, whisk together mayonnaise, sugar, and white vinegar in a separate bowl until the mixture is smooth. The amount of sugar and vinegar can be adjusted according to how sweet or tangy you prefer your dressing.

Step 4: Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and mix thoroughly to ensure every piece of broccoli and every raisin is well-coated with the dressing.

Step 5: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate. For best results, let the salad chill overnight. This step is crucial as it allows the flavors to meld together, and the broccoli slightly softens, absorbing the dressing and flavors from other ingredients.

Cooking Note:

For those who prefer a lighter dressing, you can substitute part of the mayonnaise with yogurt or sour cream for a tangier, less rich flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve this Classic Bacon Broccoli Salad chilled. It’s perfect as a side dish for barbecues, potlucks, or any meal where you want something refreshing yet satisfying.

Tips:

1. Crisp Bacon: Ensure the bacon is crispy when cooked to add a nice crunch against the soft textures of the other ingredients.
2. Broccoli Prep: Blanching the broccoli for just a minute in boiling water and then shocking it in cold water can brighten the color and enhance the crunch.
3. Nutritional Boost: For an extra nutritional boost, consider adding chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts.

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Chill Time: Overnight

Total Time: 15 minutes active, overnight passive

Nutritional Information (approximate per serving):

• Calories: 310
• Protein: 8 g
• Sodium: 350 mg

The Classic Bacon Broccoli Salad is an exemplary dish that combines simple ingredients to create a vibrant, crunchy, and flavorful side that goes well with nearly any main dish. The sweet and tangy dressing complements the salty bacon and earthy broccoli, making it a dish that often becomes a quick favorite at any dining table. This salad’s make-ahead capability makes it even more appealing for those who need a quick yet delicious dish to serve.

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