Alice Swaim'S Broccoli Salad
A crisp, flavorful broccoli salad featuring cheddar, bacon, red onion, and a tangy vinegar-mayonnaise dressing, perfect for gatherings and potlucks.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix broccoli, cheese, onion, and bacon in a large bowl.
- Make the sauce by combining vinegar, sugar, and mayonnaise.
- Pour the sauce over the broccoli mixture just before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavorful twist, consider adding dried cranberries or sunflower seeds for extra texture. You can substitute the Cheddar cheese with a sharp white cheese or even a dairy-free alternative if needed. If you prefer a lighter dressing, use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. Remember to taste and adjust the sweetness of the sauce to your preference, especially if you're pairing it with dishes like Good Home-Baked Beans.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Broccoli Salad as a refreshing side dish at your next barbecue or picnic. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats or can be a standout dish at potlucks alongside American recipes like Baked Spaghetti And Meat Balls. For a complete meal, consider adding a protein such as grilled chicken or serving it alongside a hearty potato dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will meld and deepen, making it even tastier. If you need to reheat it, do so gently in the microwave, but be aware that the broccoli will lose its crispness. It’s best enjoyed cold or at room temperature.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Alice Swaim'S Broccoli Salad contains roughly 426 calories, with 11g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (29% of the Daily Value) and protein (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 463mg per serving (20% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the broccoli mixture and dressing separately and combine them just before serving. This helps to maintain the crispiness of the broccoli and the freshness of the salad. You can store the components in the refrigerator for up to a day.
What can I substitute for bacon?
If you're looking for a vegetarian option, try using crispy chickpeas or smoked tofu to add a similar crunch and flavor. For a healthier alternative, you could also use turkey bacon, which provides a similar taste with less fat.
Is there a way to make this salad vegan?
Absolutely! You can substitute the mayonnaise with a vegan mayo or a tahini-based dressing. For the cheese, use a plant-based cheese alternative, and replace the bacon with coconut bacon or a mix of nuts for added crunch and flavor.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).