Enjoy the perfect blend of savory and sweet in our Broccoli Salad with Bacon and Raisins, a delightful dish that combines crispy bacon, plump raisins, and fresh broccoli, all tossed in a flavorful dressing.
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Nutritional Highlights of Easy Broccoli Salad with Bacon:
- Broccoli: Rich in fiber, vitamins C and K, and antioxidants.
- Bacon: High in saturated fats and sodium, not suitable for low-fat diets.
- Raisins: Provide natural sweetness and a source of fiber and antioxidants.
- Sunflower Seeds: Rich in healthy fats, protein, and vitamin E.
- Dressing (Mayonnaise, Cider Vinegar, Sugar): High in calories and fat; not suitable for low-carb or low-sugar diets.
INGREDIENTS:
- 8 cups broccoli, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/3 cup red onion, diced
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
- 1/2 cup bacon bits
DRESSING:
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 3 tablespoons vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sugar
INSTRUCTIONS:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the broccoli, red onion, dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, and bacon bits.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, cider vinegar, and sugar to make the dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture and toss well until everything is evenly coated.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
- Before serving, give the salad a good toss and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
- Serve chilled and enjoy your delicious broccoli salad!
TIPS for perfecting this Easy Broccoli Salad with Bacon:
- Blanch the Broccoli: Quickly boil broccoli, then cool it in ice water to preserve its color and texture.
- Add Crunch with Nuts: Toasted almonds, pecans, or walnuts provide a satisfying crunch.
- Fresh Herbs: Boost freshness and flavor with parsley, dill, or chives.
- Cheese: Enhance savory flavors with feta, cheddar, or Parmesan.
- Citrus Zest: Brighten flavors with lemon or orange zest for a refreshing touch.
- Greek Yogurt: Lighten the dressing by mixing in Greek yogurt for tanginess and creaminess.
- Marinate Ingredients: Let the salad sit in the fridge for a few hours to absorb the dressing’s flavors.
- Customize the Dressing: Adjust mayo, cider vinegar, and sugar ratios to taste, and try adding Dijon mustard.
- Prep Ahead: Prepare ingredients in advance but dress the salad just before serving to maintain crispness.
- Incorporate Dried Fruit: Experiment with dried apricots, cherries, or dates for a sweet contrast.
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You’ll need the following basic kitchen equipment:
- Cutting Board: For chopping and preparing ingredients like broccoli and red onion.
- Knife: A sharp kitchen knife for cutting vegetables and other salad ingredients.
- Mixing Bowls: Large bowls for combining and tossing the salad ingredients.
- Whisk: To mix and emulsify the dressing ingredients.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurately measuring ingredients, especially for the dressing.
- Saucepan (optional): If you choose to blanch the broccoli, you’ll need a saucepan to briefly cook it before cooling in an ice bath.
- Reusable Bowl Covers: To cover the salad while it chills in the refrigerator.
- Tongs or Salad Servers: For serving the salad.
Easy Broccoli Salad with Bacon
A quick and delicious broccoli salad featuring crispy bacon, sunflower seeds and raisins perfect for a simple and satisfying side dish.
Ingredients
- 8 cups broccoli cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/3 cup red onion diced
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
- 1/2 cup bacon bits
Dressing:
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 3 tablespoons cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sugar
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the broccoli, red onion, dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, and bacon bits.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, cider vinegar, and sugar to make the dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture and toss well until everything is evenly coated.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
- Before serving, give the salad a good toss and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
- Serve chilled and enjoy your delicious broccoli salad!
This look delicious. A great recipe for guests or potlucks – thank you!