Broccoli Salad Iii
A vibrant, crunchy broccoli salad with sweet raisins, red onion, crispy bacon, and optional cheddar, dressed in a tangy mayonnaise vinaigrette — perfect for gatherings and potlucks.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine mayonnaise, vinegar, and sugar in a bowl; let sit for 10 minutes.
- Chop broccoli into bite-sized pieces and place in a large bowl.
- Add raisins, chopped red onion, bacon bits or crumbled bacon, and shredded cheddar cheese if using.
- Pour the mayonnaise mixture over the salad ingredients and toss to coat evenly.
- Refrigerate for at least one hour or overnight before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra crunch, consider adding sunflower seeds or chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts. You can substitute Greek yogurt for half of the mayonnaise for a lighter version. If you want more flavor, try adding a teaspoon of Dijon mustard to the dressing. Fresh herbs like dill or parsley can also enhance the salad's taste, making it a great addition next to dishes like Hearty Hodgepodge In Crock-Pot.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this broccoli salad as a refreshing side dish at picnics or barbecues, pairing it beautifully with grilled meats or hearty dishes like Charlotte'S Special Ham Casserole. It also makes a great lunch option on its own or alongside a sandwich. Garnish with additional bacon or cheese just before serving for a nice presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld and improve after a night in the fridge. However, if you used bacon, it's best to store it separately and add it just before serving to maintain its crispiness. Avoid reheating, as this salad is meant to be served cold.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli Salad Iii contains roughly 154 calories, with 2g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 broccoli salad is perfect for making ahead. Prepare the salad up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to develop even more, making it taste even better. Just remember to add the bacon or cheese right before serving for the best texture.
What other vegetables can I add to this broccoli salad?
You can customize this salad by adding other vegetables like cauliflower, carrots, or bell peppers for added color and nutrition. Chopped celery or green onions can also provide a nice crunch. Feel free to experiment with your favorite veggies to make it your own.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make this broccoli salad vegetarian, simply omit the bacon bits. You can replace them with crispy chickpeas or tempeh for a similar texture. The salad will still be delicious and satisfying without the meat, and you'll still enjoy the creamy dressing and the various textures from the other ingredients.
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).