A classic favorite that never goes out of style, this Bacon Broccoli Salad is a delightful blend of crunchy broccoli florets, crispy bacon, and a creamy dressing that brings it all together perfectly. This refreshing side dish is a staple at picnics, potlucks, and family gatherings. The combination of textures and flavors makes it a crowd-pleaser, and it’s incredibly easy to make. Let’s dive into this simple yet delicious recipe!
**Classic Bacon Broccoli Salad Recipe**
**Ingredients:**
– 4 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped
– 1 cup crispy bacon, chopped
– 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
– 1/2 cup raisins
– 1/2 cup sunflower seeds
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Salad Ingredients:** Start by cooking the bacon until it’s wonderfully crispy. Once done, chop it into small pieces. Then, wash and chop the fresh broccoli into bite-sized florets. Finely chop the red onion.
2. **Mix the Dressing:** In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasoning to taste. The dressing should be creamy and slightly tangy.
3. **Combine the Ingredients:** In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, crispy bacon, red onion, raisins, and sunflower seeds. Toss them gently to combine.
4. **Add the Dressing:** Pour the prepared dressing over the broccoli mixture. Using a spatula or a spoon, gently fold the dressing into the salad until all the ingredients are well coated.
5. **Chill and Serve:** Cover the salad bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least an hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Before serving, give the salad a quick toss to ensure the dressing is evenly distributed.
6. **Garnish and Enjoy:** Optionally, garnish the salad with extra bacon bits or sunflower seeds for an extra crunch. Serve your Bacon Broccoli Salad chilled and watch it disappear within minutes!
This Classic Bacon Broccoli Salad is the perfect side dish to accompany grilled meats, sandwiches, or as a standalone dish for a light lunch. The crispness of the broccoli pairs perfectly with the salty crunch of the bacon, while the sweetness of the raisins adds a nice contrast. The creamy dressing ties everything together, creating a symphony of flavors in every bite.
Whether you’re hosting a barbecue, attending a potluck, or simply craving a fresh and delicious salad, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. It’s quick to make, can be prepared ahead of time, and is guaranteed to impress your guests with its vibrant colors and delectable taste. Enjoy this Bacon Broccoli Salad at your next gathering and bask in the compliments that are sure to come your way!
