Description
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of our Broccoli Salad with Bacon Recipe, a delightful dish that combines crunchy broccoli, crispy bacon, sweet dried cranberries, and sharp cheddar cheese. Tossed in a tangy homemade dressing, this salad is not only easy to prepare but also a crowd favorite for any occasion—from summer barbecues to festive Thanksgiving dinners. The contrasting textures and flavors make every bite a joy. Plus, it’s make-ahead friendly, allowing you to enjoy its deliciousness without the last-minute rush. Whether served as a side dish or enjoyed on its own, this Broccoli Salad with Bacon is sure to impress!
Ingredients
- 10–11 strips bacon (cooked)
- 2 heads broccoli (about 1 and 1/2 pounds)
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1/3 cup sunflower seeds (roasted and salted)
- 1 cup cheddar cheese (shredded)
- 1/3 cup chopped red onion
- 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
Instructions
- Cook the bacon in the oven until crisp; set aside to cool.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the dressing ingredients: Miracle Whip or mayonnaise, lemon zest and juice, white wine vinegar, sugar, salt, pepper, dry mustard, and cayenne.
- Chop broccoli into small florets and add to the bowl along with cranberries, sunflower seeds, cheese, red onion, and most of the cooled bacon. Reserve some bacon for garnish.
- Mix gently until well combined; chill before serving for optimal flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 610mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: Use fresh ingredients for the best taste. Feel free to customize the dressing by adjusting sugar or vinegar levels. For added crunch and flavor variations, consider adding nuts like almonds or walnuts.