This broccoli salad is a refreshing mix of crisp broccoli, crunchy bacon, and tangy dressing. It’s simple to make and perfect for lunch or a quick side dish!
Bacon in a salad? Yes, please! I love how the bacon adds a smoky crunch that makes each bite exciting. Serve it cold for a nice and yummy treat!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets are key for that nice crunch. If you’re in a pinch, you can use frozen broccoli; just make sure to thaw and drain it well before mixing.
Bacon: I love regular bacon for its flavor, but you can substitute turkey bacon or even smoked paprika for a vegetarian option. Just remember that the crunch will be different!
Cranberries: Dried cranberries give a lovely sweet-tart flavor. You could replace these with raisins or chopped apples if you want a different fruity touch.
Sunflower Seeds: These add a great nutty crunch. You can swap them with chopped pecans or walnuts for another layer of flavor.
Feta Cheese: Feta adds creaminess, but if you prefer, you can use blue cheese or omit it for a dairy-free version. Goat cheese also works well!
How Do You Cook Bacon for the Perfect Crunch?
Cooking bacon to crispy goodness takes care! Here’s how to do it:
- Start with cold bacon and a skillet over medium heat. This helps render the fat slowly and evenly.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; work in batches if needed to keep the bacon pieces apart.
- Cook for about 6-8 minutes, flipping occasionally, until it’s golden brown and crispy.
- Drain on a paper towel to remove excess grease, then chop when cooled.
By following these steps, you’ll enjoy that perfect crunch in every bite!
Easy Broccoli Salad Recipe with Crunchy Bacon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 1 large head)
- 6 slices bacon
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This broccoli salad will take about 15 minutes to prepare and 1 hour to chill in the refrigerator. So, you’re looking at a total time of about 1 hour and 15 minutes before you can dig in!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Bacon:
Start by cooking the bacon slices in a skillet over medium heat until they are crispy, which should take about 6-8 minutes. Once cooked, place the bacon on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess grease and let it cool for a few minutes. When it’s cool enough to handle, chop the bacon into small pieces.
2. Prepare the Broccoli:
While the bacon is cooking, wash the broccoli and cut it into bite-sized florets. It’s also a good time to finely chop the red onion to add in the salad.
3. Mix the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, and a pinch of salt and pepper until the dressing is nice and smooth. Taste it and adjust the seasoning if necessary!
4. Assemble the Salad:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the broccoli florets, chopped red onion, dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, and crumbled feta cheese (if using). Mix everything together lightly.
5. Add Bacon and Dressing:
Add the chopped bacon to the salad and then pour the prepared dressing over the top. Gently toss everything together until all the ingredients are well coated with the dressing.
6. Chill and Serve:
Cover the salad and place it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld together beautifully and the broccoli to soften just a bit. Serve it chilled, and enjoy that delicious crunch!
This salad combines fresh broccoli, crunchy bacon, sweet cranberries, and creamy dressing—a delightful mix that works perfectly as a side dish or even a light meal. Enjoy!
FAQ About the Easy Broccoli Salad Recipe with Crunchy Bacon
Can I Use Other Types of Nuts or Seeds Instead of Sunflower Seeds?
Absolutely! You can substitute sunflower seeds with chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for a different flavor and texture. Just make sure to chop them into smaller pieces for a nice crunch!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make this salad up to a day in advance. Just leave out the bacon until you’re ready to serve to keep it crispy. When ready to eat, simply mix in the bacon and enjoy!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The salad may soften a little over time, but it will still be delicious!
Is It Possible to Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! To make it vegetarian, skip the bacon and consider adding smoked paprika or liquid smoke to the dressing for that smoky flavor. You could also add more nuts or seeds for extra crunch!
