Aunt Mary Lee'S Broccoli Salad
A creamy, sweet-and-savory broccoli salad with raisins, onions, and crispy bacon, perfect for potlucks, picnics, or as a refreshing side dish for gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix mayonnaise, sugar, and vinegar in a bowl.
- Chop the broccoli into bite-sized pieces and place in a large mixing bowl.
- Add raisins, chopped onion, and crumbled bacon to the broccoli.
- Toss the broccoli mixture with the mayonnaise dressing until evenly coated.
- Chill the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. You can also substitute maple syrup for sugar if you prefer a natural sweetener. Adding chopped nuts like walnuts or almonds can enhance the texture and flavor. If you want extra crunch, include some diced celery. This salad is versatile, so feel free to experiment with different dried fruits as well.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Aunt Mary Lee's Broccoli Salad as a delightful side dish at picnics or barbecues; it pairs wonderfully with grilled meats like Creole Hamburgers or Smokey Sensations. For a complete meal, consider having it alongside a light protein, such as grilled chicken or fish. This salad also complements American recipes like BBQ ribs or roasted vegetables.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even tastier. If the salad appears dry after chilling, stir in a tablespoon of mayonnaise or yogurt to refresh it. This salad is best served cold, so there's no need to reheat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Mary Lee'S Broccoli Salad contains roughly 1200 calories, with 6g protein, 56g carbohydrates, and 108g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (17% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (14% of the Daily Value), and iron (13% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 924mg per serving (40% 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 broccoli salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this salad a day in advance. Simply mix the ingredients and store it in the refrigerator. The chilling time allows the flavors to blend beautifully. However, it's best to add the bacon just before serving to maintain its crispiness.
Can I use frozen broccoli for this salad?
While fresh broccoli is recommended for the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen broccoli if needed. Just ensure to thaw it completely and pat it dry to remove excess moisture before mixing it with the other ingredients.
What can I substitute for raisins?
If you're not a fan of raisins, you can substitute with dried cranberries, chopped apples, or even grapes for a fresh twist. Each of these alternatives will add a unique flavor and texture to the salad while keeping the sweetness balanced.
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).