Broccoli Salad with Bacon Recipe

Everyone needs a recipe for the best Broccoli Salad with Bacon! This dish is packed with flavors from crispy bacon, sweet cranberries, sharp cheese, and crunchy sunflower seeds. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for summer barbecues or Thanksgiving feasts. The tangy homemade dressing brings everything together, making each bite delightful.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This broccoli salad comes together quickly, making it a go-to recipe for busy days.
• Flavorful Combination: The mix of bacon, cheese, and cranberries offers a perfect balance of savory and sweet.
• Versatile Dish: Ideal for potlucks, picnics, or as a side at family dinners.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With its colorful ingredients and delicious taste, everyone will be asking for seconds.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare this salad in advance, letting the flavors meld overnight.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking more efficient and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Whisk
• Baking sheet (for bacon)
• Paper towels

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: Provides enough space for combining all ingredients without spilling.
• Chef’s knife: Ensures clean cuts for your broccoli and other veggies, making prep easier.
• Whisk: Helps blend dressing ingredients smoothly for even flavor distribution.

Ingredients

Ingredients for the Broccoli Salad with Bacon Recipe:
– 10-11 strips bacon (cooked)
– 2 heads broccoli (about 1 and 1/2 pounds or 5-6 cups)
– 1 cup dried cranberries
– 1/3 cup sunflower seeds (roasted and salted)
– 1 cup cheddar cheese (shredded)
– 1/3 cup chopped red onion (or more to taste)
– 1 & 1/4 cups Miracle Whip OR mayonnaise
– Zest from 1 lemon
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1 & 1/4 teaspoons kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon dry mustard
– 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper

How to Make Broccoli Salad with Bacon Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

Start by making the bacon. I highly recommend baking it in the oven. It’s easier without splatter. Cook your bacon until crisp and set aside on paper towels to cool. Once cool, chop into bite-sized pieces.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

While the bacon cooks, mix the dressing ingredients in a large bowl:
* Add 1 and 1/4 cups Miracle Whip OR mayonnaise.
* Include zest from one lemon, lemon juice, white wine vinegar, sugar, kosher salt, black pepper, dry mustard, and cayenne pepper.
Whisk all together until smooth.

Step 3: Chop the Broccoli

Using a chef’s knife, chop your broccoli into small florets. If you like, save the stems by chopping them up to add to the salad.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

In your large bowl with dressing:
* Add all chopped broccoli.
* Stir in dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, cheddar cheese, chopped red onion.
Add most of the chopped bacon but reserve some for garnishing later.

Step 5: Mix Everything Together

Gently stir all ingredients until well combined. This salad can be served immediately or chilled in the fridge. If chilling first, let it sit out for about 20 minutes before serving for best flavor.

Step 6: Store Leftovers

Keep any leftovers covered in the fridge. The salad will last about five days if stored properly. Enjoy your Broccoli Salad with Bacon!

How to Serve Broccoli Salad with Bacon Recipe

Serving your Broccoli Salad with Bacon can elevate any meal. This salad is versatile and can be paired with various dishes, making it a fantastic addition to your table.

At a Summer Barbecue

• Pair this salad with grilled meats such as burgers or hot dogs for a refreshing side.
• Serve it alongside corn on the cob for a classic summer combination.

As a Thanksgiving Dish

• Include this salad in your Thanksgiving spread as a light contrast to heavier dishes like turkey and stuffing.
• It adds color and texture to your holiday table.

For Potlucks

• Bring this crowd-pleasing salad to potluck gatherings. It’s easy to transport and sure to be a hit.
• Serve it in a large bowl so guests can help themselves.

With a Sandwich

• Enjoy this salad as a side with your favorite sandwich or wrap for lunch.
• The crunchy texture complements soft bread perfectly.

How to Perfect Broccoli Salad with Bacon Recipe

To achieve the best results with your Broccoli Salad with Bacon, consider the following tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh broccoli and crispy bacon will enhance the flavor of your salad significantly.
• Customize the Dressing: Feel free to adjust the sugar or vinegar in the dressing to suit your taste preferences.
• Chill Before Serving: Allowing the salad to chill for at least an hour helps the flavors meld beautifully.
• Add More Crunch: Consider adding other ingredients like almonds or walnuts for added texture.
• Texture Matters: Cut broccoli into small, even pieces for uniform bites throughout the salad.
• Garnish Thoughtfully: Sprinkle reserved bacon or additional cheese on top just before serving for visual appeal.

Best Side Dishes for Broccoli Salad with Bacon Recipe

Looking for perfect accompaniments? Here are some delicious side dishes that pair well with your Broccoli Salad with Bacon.

1. Grilled Chicken: Juicy grilled chicken breast seasoned simply makes for an excellent protein match.
2. Cornbread Muffins: Soft and slightly sweet cornbread muffins complement the savory elements of this salad.
3. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes provide a hearty side that balances well with the fresh flavors of the broccoli salad.
4. Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy macaroni offers comfort and pairs wonderfully with any outdoor meal setting.
5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and contrasts nicely against the creamy dressing of the broccoli salad.
6. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with rice, beans, or meat add vibrant colors and flavors to your table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Broccoli Salad with Bacon, it’s easy to make some common errors. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:

• Overcooking the broccoli: Cooking broccoli too much can lead to a mushy texture. Aim for tender-crisp florets by blanching or steaming briefly before adding them to your salad.
• Using stale ingredients: Freshness matters! Ensure your bacon, cranberries, and any cheese you use are fresh for the best flavor. Check expiration dates before starting.
• Skipping the dressing balance: A poorly balanced dressing can overpower the salad. Taste and adjust acidity and sweetness as needed before mixing everything together.
• Not letting it chill: Allowing the salad to sit in the refrigerator enhances flavors. If you serve it immediately, consider letting it rest for at least 20 minutes at room temperature first.
• Forgetting about texture: Variety in textures makes a salad great. Don’t skip crunchy elements like sunflower seeds or crispy bacon—they add essential contrast.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Broccoli Salad with Bacon in an airtight container.
• It will remain fresh for up to 5 days when refrigerated.

Freezing Broccoli Salad with Bacon Recipe

• Freezing is not recommended due to potential changes in texture after thawing.
• If you must freeze, separate ingredients (like bacon) and only freeze the broccoli and dressing.

Reheating Broccoli Salad with Bacon Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Spread salad on a baking sheet and warm for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in short bursts of 30 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Broccoli Salad with Bacon ahead of time?

Yes! This salad is perfect for making ahead. Just store it in the fridge for up to 5 days.

What can I substitute for bacon in this recipe?

You can use turkey bacon or even tempeh bacon for a vegetarian option without sacrificing flavor.

How do I customize my Broccoli Salad with Bacon Recipe?

Feel free to add other ingredients like nuts, different cheeses, or fresh herbs to suit your taste preferences!

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?

Dried cranberries are recommended for their sweetness. Fresh ones could alter the flavor balance significantly.

Final Thoughts

This Broccoli Salad with Bacon is not just delicious; it’s versatile enough for any occasion! With its rich flavors and textures from crispy bacon and crunchy vegetables, it’s sure to be a hit at gatherings or family dinners. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite add-ins!