Arizona Broccoli Salad
A vibrant, sweet and savory broccoli salad featuring raisins, crispy bacon, and a creamy dressing, perfect for gatherings and potlucks with a crunchy texture and bold flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook bacon very crispy; then crush or crumble the bacon.
- Mix sugar, vinegar, Miracle Whip, and chopped onions in a bowl until well combined.
- Pour the dressing mixture over broccoli tips and raisins, and toss to coat evenly.
- Sprinkle the crushed bacon over the top of the salad.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, you can substitute Greek yogurt for Miracle Whip. If you want to add more crunch, consider including nuts like slivered almonds or sunflower seeds. Make sure to use fresh broccoli tips for the best flavor and texture. You can also experiment with different types of vinegar, such as apple cider or balsamic, to give the dressing a unique twist.
Serving Suggestions
This Arizona Broccoli Salad is a fantastic side dish for summer barbecues or potlucks. It pairs beautifully with Pork recipes or grilled chicken for a complete meal. Serve it alongside a Tossed Spinach Salad for a colorful and nutritious spread. You can also enjoy it as a light lunch on its own.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld as it sits, making it even tastier the next day. However, if you prefer a crunchier salad, consider adding the bacon just before serving to prevent it from becoming soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Arizona Broccoli Salad contains roughly 129 calories, with 3g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 528mg per serving (23% 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, this salad can be made a day in advance. Just prepare the dressing and mix it with the broccoli and raisins, but add the bacon right before serving to keep it crispy. The flavors will develop nicely in the fridge, making it a great option for meal prep.
What if I don’t like raisins?
If raisins aren't your favorite, you can substitute them with dried cranberries or chopped apples for a different sweetness and texture. These alternatives will still complement the broccoli and dressing well while adding their unique flavor profiles.
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
While fresh broccoli is recommended for the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen broccoli if necessary. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture in the salad. Blanching the frozen broccoli briefly can also help improve its texture.
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).