Aunt Mary'S Cold Broccoli Salad
A creamy, savory broccoli salad with crispy bacon, cheese, and a sweet tang from sugar and vinegar, perfect for potlucks and summer gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Chop the broccoli flower heads to desired size and crumble the cooked bacon into a large bowl.
- Add mayonnaise to taste.
- Add sugar to taste.
- Stir in grated cheese, chopped onion, and red wine vinegar.
- Mix these ingredients together, then add the chopped broccoli.
- Combine everything well and refrigerate overnight for best flavor.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra crunch, consider adding sunflower seeds or almonds to the salad. If you're short on time, pre-cooked bacon or turkey bacon can be a quicker alternative. For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for some or all of the mayonnaise. Adjust the sugar based on your preference for sweetness and balance with the vinegar.
Serving Suggestions
This cold broccoli salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats, making it an excellent side for summer barbecues. Consider serving it alongside Debbie'S Lazy Way Spaghetti for a complete meal. Add some crusty bread or a fresh green salad to round out the meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will continue to meld as it sits. Avoid reheating, as this salad is best served cold. Instead, enjoy it as a refreshing side dish or lunch option straight from the fridge.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Mary'S Cold Broccoli Salad contains roughly 966 calories, with 7g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 102g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (16% of the Daily Value) and protein (13% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 926mg 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 salad in advance?
Absolutely! In fact, making it the day before allows the flavors to develop further. Just be sure to keep it refrigerated and give it a good stir before serving to redistribute the ingredients.
What type of cheese works best in this recipe?
Cheddar cheese is a popular choice for its sharp flavor, but feel free to experiment with other types like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a bit of kick. Grated cheese melts easily into the salad, enhancing the overall taste.
Can I add other vegetables to the salad?
Yes! Chopped bell peppers, carrots, or even peas can add color and texture. Just make sure to keep the proportions balanced so that the salad remains cohesive and flavorful.
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).