Broccoli Cheese Salad
A creamy broccoli cheese salad with crispy bacon and tangy dressing, perfect as a side dish for gatherings or a flavorful addition to any meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Chop broccoli buds, discarding stems. Peel and chop onion. Mix broccoli, onion, cheese, and bacon in a large bowl.
- Mix mayonnaise, vinegar, and sugar in a small bowl.
- Add the dressing to the broccoli mixture and toss to combine.
- Refrigerate for at least 8 hours before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra crunch, consider adding sunflower seeds or chopped nuts to your Broccoli Cheese Salad. If you're short on time, pre-shredded cheese can save you some prep work. You can also substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise for a lighter dressing. If you prefer a sweeter touch, use honey instead of sugar.
Serving Suggestions
This salad makes a delightful side dish for any BBQ or picnic, pairing well with grilled meats or sandwiches. It complements dishes like Ham Banana Rolls With Broccoli beautifully. Serve it chilled and consider garnishing with additional crumbled bacon or chopped green onions for added flair.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Broccoli Cheese Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors continue to meld over time, enhancing the dish. Avoid reheating the salad, as it is best enjoyed cold. If needed, add a splash of vinegar or a little extra mayonnaise to refresh it before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli Cheese Salad contains roughly 405 calories, with 8g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 32g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 573mg per serving (25% 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! In fact, making the Broccoli Cheese Salad a day in advance allows the flavors to develop further. Just be sure to store it in the refrigerator and give it a good stir before serving.
What type of cheese works best in this salad?
Shredded cheddar cheese is traditional, but feel free to use any cheese you prefer, such as Monterey Jack or a blend of cheeses for added flavor. Just ensure it's shredded for easy mixing.
Can I add other ingredients to this salad?
Absolutely! You can personalize it by adding diced apples for sweetness, raisins for chewiness, or even chopped bell peppers for color and crunch. The possibilities are endless!
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).