Nothing beats the crunchy texture and savory flavors of a hearty salad, especially one that combines the goodness of fresh veggies with the indulgence of crispy bacon. Our broccoli and bacon salad is a delightful dish that offers a perfect balance of wholesome ingredients and comforting tastes. This recipe is not only simple to prepare but is also versatile enough to serve as a side dish or a light and satisfying main course. Let’s dive into creating this delicious dish perfect for any occasion.
Broccoli And Bacon Salad
Ingredients:
– 1 head of broccoli, chopped into florets
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked until crispy and diced
– 1/2 cup of red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup of dried cranberries
– 1/2 cup of sunflower seeds
– 1/2 cup of mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon of honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Begin by blanching the broccoli florets in a pot of boiling water for about 2 minutes. Afterward, immediately transfer the broccoli to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large salad bowl, combine the blanched broccoli, diced bacon, sliced red onion, dried cranberries, and sunflower seeds. Toss gently to mix all the ingredients evenly.
3. In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined to create the dressing.
4. Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture in the salad bowl and toss everything together until the salad is evenly coated with the dressing.
5. Allow the salad to chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
6. Once chilled, give the salad a final toss before serving. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
7. Serve the broccoli and bacon salad as a refreshing side dish or add grilled chicken or shrimp to turn it into a complete meal.
There you have it – a simple yet delicious broccoli and bacon salad that’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. The combination of crispy bacon, vibrant broccoli, and sweet cranberries creates a symphony of flavors and textures that will impress your family and guests. Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite nuts or cheese for extra richness. Enjoy this salad at picnics, barbecues, or as a light lunch option on a busy day. The versatility and simplicity of this dish make it a go-to recipe for any occasion. Give it a try and savor every bite of this delightful salad!
