This classic broccoli salad is the perfect balance of textures and flavors. The crisp, fresh broccoli is complemented by crunchy bacon, creamy cheddar cheese, and sweet dried cranberries, all tossed in a tangy, slightly sweet dressing. The sunflower seeds add an extra crunch, making every bite a delightful experience. Not only is this dish incredibly tasty, but it’s also quick to prepare, making it a fantastic side dish for picnics, potlucks, and weeknight dinners. Whether you’re looking for a nutrient-packed salad or a flavorful way to enjoy broccoli, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite!
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/3 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup sunflower seeds
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the broccoli florets, crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar, red onion, sunflower seeds, and dried cranberries.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and sugar until well combined.
- Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture and toss until evenly coated.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Chill Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes
Kcal: 290 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
Background of Broccoli Salad
Classic Broccoli Salad has become a beloved staple in many kitchens, especially in the United States, where it often appears at family gatherings, holiday meals, and summer cookouts. This dish is a perfect fusion of fresh, crunchy vegetables with rich, creamy textures, making it both satisfying and flavorful. Originally, broccoli salad was introduced as a healthier alternative to heavier, traditional salads. The combination of nutrient-rich broccoli with a simple yet tangy dressing quickly gained popularity, turning it into a go-to side dish. The base of this salad is, of course, fresh broccoli. Not only is it a vibrant green vegetable, but it also packs a punch in terms of its nutritional value. While the original broccoli salad recipe was quite basic, over time, cooks have gotten creative by adding different ingredients like bacon, cheese, and nuts for added texture and flavor. Today, the Classic Broccoli Salad with bacon and cheddar remains one of the most popular versions.
Why This Recipe Is the Best
Packed with Nutrients
- Broccoli is a powerhouse vegetable. It’s rich in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants, and it’s a great source of vitamins K and A, folate, and potassium. This salad not only adds a generous amount of vegetables to your diet but also supports immune function, promotes healthy skin, and aids digestion. The healthy fats in the dressing and seeds further enhance the nutritional value of this dish.
Easy to Make
- Unlike other salads that may require extensive preparation or cooking, this classic broccoli salad is quick and easy to make. With only a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, this dish is perfect for busy people who want to enjoy a healthy, delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s an ideal choice for beginners who want to impress their guests with a homemade dish.
Crowd-Pleasing Flavor
- One of the best things about this salad is its ability to appeal to a wide variety of tastes. The crunchiness of the broccoli, the smoky flavor of the bacon, the creamy cheddar cheese, and the sweet pop of cranberries all come together in perfect harmony. The dressing, which is a combination of mayo, apple cider vinegar, and a bit of sugar, adds just the right amount of tang and sweetness to balance the flavors. This recipe is designed to be a hit at any gathering, from family dinners to BBQs and potlucks.
Versatile and Customizable
- This recipe is highly adaptable. If you’re vegetarian, you can skip the bacon and add extra seeds or roasted chickpeas for a crunchy, plant-based protein. You can substitute the cranberries with raisins or dried cherries, or even toss in some apple slices for a hint of freshness. The dressing can also be adjusted to suit your taste, whether you prefer a tangier version with more vinegar or a sweeter one with a bit more sugar. The beauty of this salad is its versatility to meet your personal preferences.
Perfect for Meal Prep
- This broccoli salad is ideal for meal prepping. It holds up well in the fridge for a few days, and its flavors only get better as it sits and marinates. Prepare a batch at the beginning of the week, and you’ll have a healthy, ready-to-go side dish that can accompany any meal. Whether you’re making it for lunch, dinner, or a quick snack, this salad is easy to store and convenient to have on hand.
Great for All Diets
- Not only is this salad full of nutritious ingredients, but it’s also incredibly flexible when it comes to dietary preferences. If you’re following a gluten-free or low-carb diet, this recipe fits perfectly into your meal plan. By omitting the bacon and using a plant-based mayo, you can also make it vegan-friendly. It’s a dish that can be enjoyed by almost everyone, regardless of dietary restrictions.
Benefits of This Recipe
Supports Digestive Health
- Broccoli is an excellent source of fiber, which is crucial for maintaining a healthy digestive system. Fiber helps regulate bowel movements, supports healthy gut bacteria, and reduces the risk of constipation. This broccoli salad is a great way to add more fiber to your diet while also enjoying a tasty dish.
Boosts Immune Function
- Broccoli is packed with vitamin C, an essential nutrient known for its immune-boosting properties. The antioxidants in broccoli, combined with the vitamin C, help protect your body against oxidative stress and inflammation. Eating foods like broccoli regularly can help support your immune system and reduce the risk of illness.
Rich in Antioxidants
- The combination of broccoli, cranberries, and seeds in this salad makes it a potent source of antioxidants. Antioxidants help neutralize free radicals in the body, which can damage cells and contribute to chronic diseases. The high levels of vitamin C in the broccoli and the antioxidants in the cranberries make this dish a great way to support your overall health.
Heart Health
- The healthy fats in the salad, from the dressing and sunflower seeds, contribute to heart health by providing essential fatty acids. These fats are beneficial for lowering bad cholesterol levels and promoting good heart function. Bacon, in moderation, can also add a savory flavor that enhances the dish, but the healthy fats in the dressing and seeds play a bigger role in heart health.
Why This Salad Is Ideal for Any Occasion
The versatility and ease of making this broccoli salad make it the perfect dish for any occasion. From BBQs to holiday dinners, it’s always a crowd-pleaser. Not only does it complement grilled meats, but it also pairs wonderfully with other vegetable-based dishes. The balance of flavors and textures makes it a versatile addition to any meal, whether you’re serving it as a side dish or enjoying it as a light main course. Because it’s a no-cook recipe, this salad is also perfect for hot weather when you don’t want to spend a lot of time in the kitchen. It’s simple, quick, and refreshingly cool. Plus, it’s ideal for potlucks or picnics, where you can make a large batch that serves many people. The crunchy vegetables and hearty dressing ensure that the salad holds up well during transportation and remains delicious, even after sitting out for a little while.
Conclusion
This Classic Broccoli Salad recipe is not just a healthy side dish; it’s an all-around winner that’s perfect for any occasion. Its combination of nutrients, flavors, and ease of preparation make it the ideal choice for busy weeknights, special gatherings, or simply when you want a delicious salad that everyone will love. With its customizable nature and ability to fit into various dietary preferences, this salad is something you’ll return to time and again. The next time you’re in need of a crowd-pleasing, nutritious, and delicious dish, you can confidently whip up this Broccoli Salad with Bacon and Cheddar. It’s guaranteed to be a hit!
