If you love salads that are bursting with texture, flavor, and a hint of nostalgia, then the Amish Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing and Bacon Recipe is a must-try for your next meal. This vibrant dish combines fresh broccoli, crispy bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and a luscious creamy dressing that perfectly balances tangy and sweet notes. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s simple to make but delivers a beautiful medley of colors and tastes that feel like a warm, flavorful hug in every bite. Whether you’re bringing it to a family gathering or just craving a deliciously satisfying salad, this recipe is guaranteed to brighten your table and your day.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Amish Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing and Bacon Recipe is thoughtfully chosen to create the perfect harmony of taste, texture, and color. From crisp broccoli to crunchy sunflower seeds, every element plays a crucial role in making this salad truly special.
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets: The star of the salad, providing crunch and vibrant green color.
- 1/2 small red onion (thinly sliced): Adds a sharp, slightly sweet bite that cuts through the creaminess.
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Brings depth and a savory richness to the mix.
- 1/3 cup sunflower seeds: For an earthy crunch that complements the broccoli perfectly.
- 6 slices bacon (cooked and crumbled): The smoky, crispy element that makes this salad unforgettable.
- 1/3 cup raisins or dried cranberries (optional): A touch of sweetness and chewy texture that’s totally worth it.
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise: Creates the creamy base of the dressing for a luscious coat.
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar: Adds a bright tang that lifts and balances the flavors.
- 2 tablespoons sugar: Sweetens the dressing just enough for harmony without overwhelming.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors without being overpowering.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: A hint of spice to round out the dressing components.
How to Make Amish Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing and Bacon Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Begin by chopping your fresh broccoli into bite-sized florets, then thinly slice the red onion. Cook your bacon until perfectly crisp, then crumble it into small pieces. Having all your ingredients prepped and ready will make assembling this salad a breeze and ensure every bite is perfectly balanced.
Step 2: Mix the Salad Components
In a large mixing bowl, combine the broccoli florets, thinly sliced red onion, shredded cheddar cheese, sunflower seeds, crumbled bacon, and dried fruit if you’re adding it. This mixture is the beautiful base that’s about to be coated in a creamy dressing, bringing all these contrasting elements together in one delightful dish.
Step 3: Whisk the Creamy Dressing
In a smaller bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper until the dressing is smooth and creamy. This tangy, slightly sweet dressing is what makes the Amish Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing and Bacon Recipe so memorable—it perfectly complements the savory and crunchy ingredients.
Step 4: Combine and Chill
Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture and toss gently until every bite is coated evenly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the salad for at least one hour. This resting time allows the flavors to meld beautifully and softens the broccoli slightly while keeping its crispness intact.
Step 5: Final Stir and Serve
Before serving, give the salad a final stir to redistribute the dressing and toppings evenly. If you’re making this ahead, add the bacon just before serving to keep it crispy, ensuring that delicious crunch every time you dig in.
How to Serve Amish Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing and Bacon Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate the presentation and add extra flair, sprinkle extra sunflower seeds or a few fresh chopped herbs like parsley or chives on top. These garnishes boost the salad’s visual appeal and add a fresh burst of flavor to every forkful.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or tender pulled pork for a satisfying meal. It also shines alongside classic barbecue fare or even as a refreshing side to hearty sandwiches, making it incredibly versatile for any occasion.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party or potluck, consider serving the Amish Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing and Bacon Recipe in individual mason jars or colorful bowls. Layer the salad and dressing separately for a “dress your own” setup, which makes for a fun and interactive dining experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Amish Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing and Bacon Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For best texture, keep the bacon separate and add it just before serving leftovers to maintain its crunch.
Freezing
Because of the fresh vegetables and creamy dressing, this salad is not recommended for freezing. The broccoli and dressing textures don’t hold up well after thawing, so it’s best enjoyed fresh or within a couple of days.
Reheating
This salad is best served cold or at room temperature, so reheating is not necessary. If you prefer your bacon warmed, you can reheat that separately before adding it back to the chilled salad.
FAQs
Can I make this salad vegan or vegetarian?
Absolutely! Swap the bacon for smoked tempeh or roasted chickpeas for that delightful crunch. Use a vegan mayonnaise to keep the dressing creamy and dairy-free. The salad will still be deliciously satisfying.
Is there a way to make this salad lighter?
Yes, you can substitute some or all of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangier dressing that still complements the salad’s flavors nicely without sacrificing creaminess.
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
While fresh broccoli is best for the crisp texture, you can use frozen broccoli if thawed and patted dry thoroughly. Keep in mind it might be softer, which slightly changes the salad’s overall texture.
What other nuts or seeds work in this recipe?
If you’re not a fan of sunflower seeds, try toasted slivered almonds, pumpkin seeds, or chopped walnuts for a tasty crunch and a new flavor twist that pairs well with the creamy dressing.
How far in advance can I prepare this salad?
You can assemble the salad up to 24 hours ahead, but for the best bacon texture, add it just prior to serving. This prevents it from becoming soggy and keeps that delightful crunch intact.
Final Thoughts
Trust me when I say, the Amish Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing and Bacon Recipe is one of those dishes that brings people together, thanks to its irresistible balance of creamy, crunchy, smoky, and tangy flavors. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for almost any occasion. Give it a try and watch it quickly become a new favorite in your recipe rotation!
Print
Amish Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing and Bacon Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes plus chilling time
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Amish Broccoli Salad features fresh broccoli florets tossed with crunchy sunflower seeds, sharp cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and sweet raisins, all coated in a creamy, tangy dressing made from mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and sugar. It’s a vibrant, make-ahead salad perfect for potlucks or casual meals that melds crisp textures with savory and sweet flavors.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/3 cup sunflower seeds
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/3 cup raisins or dried cranberries (optional)
Dressing Ingredients
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the salad ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the fresh broccoli florets, thinly sliced red onion, shredded cheddar cheese, sunflower seeds, cooked and crumbled bacon, and raisins or dried cranberries if using. Toss these ingredients gently to mix them evenly.
- Make the dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This tangy dressing will coat the salad ingredients beautifully.
- Combine salad and dressing: Pour the creamy dressing over the broccoli mixture. Toss thoroughly to ensure every piece is coated with the dressing for maximum flavor infusion.
- Chill the salad: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the salad for at least one hour. This resting time allows the flavors to meld and the broccoli to absorb the dressing.
- Serve: Before serving, stir the salad gently once more. For the best texture, add the bacon right before serving if you prepared the salad a day ahead to keep the bacon crisp.
Notes
- This salad can be prepared up to a day in advance. Add the bacon just before serving to maintain its crispiness.
- For a lighter version, substitute some or all of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
- You can swap raisins for dried cranberries if preferred for a slightly different sweetness.
