Ellen Brown'S Broccoli Salad
A vibrant broccoli salad with crispy bacon, melted mozzarella, and a tangy sweet vinaigrette, perfect for gatherings and casual meals needing a crunchy, cheesy side dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix mayonnaise, sugar, and red wine vinegar together to create the dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the broccoli, crumbled bacon, shredded mozzarella cheese, and chopped red onion.
- Stir everything together until well combined.
- Chill in the refrigerator for 2 hours before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra crunch, consider adding sunflower seeds or chopped nuts to the salad. If you're short on time, you can use pre-chopped broccoli or even frozen broccoli florets. For a lighter dressing, substitute Greek yogurt for half of the mayonnaise. This salad also works well with a mix of cheeses, so feel free to experiment with cheddar or a pepper jack for some heat.
Serving Suggestions
This broccoli salad is a perfect side for barbecues or picnics, complementing dishes like One Dish Pork Chops or grilled meats. Serve it chilled for a refreshing contrast to warm dishes. It also makes a great contribution to potlucks or family gatherings, where it can stand out among hearty American recipes. Garnish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added flair.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, but the broccoli may lose some crunch. If you prefer a fresher texture, consider adding extra chopped broccoli or a sprinkle of fresh bacon before serving. Do not freeze, as the dressing may separate and affect the overall texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ellen Brown'S Broccoli Salad contains roughly 639 calories, with 12g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 59g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (32% of the Daily Value) and protein (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 683mg per serving (30% 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, you can prepare this salad a day in advance. Just mix the dressing and combine it with the ingredients, then chill it in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to develop. However, for the best texture, consider adding the bacon right before serving to maintain its crispness.
Is there a vegetarian option for this salad?
Absolutely! You can substitute the bacon with crispy chickpeas or toasted walnuts to keep the crunch. Additionally, consider adding diced bell peppers or carrots for extra color and nutrition. The dressing remains the same, making it easy to adapt into a vegetarian-friendly dish.
How can I adjust the sweetness of the dressing?
If you prefer a less sweet dressing, reduce the sugar to 1/4 cup or omit it entirely. You can also add a touch of Dijon mustard for a tangy flavor that balances the sweetness. Taste the dressing before mixing it with the salad to ensure it meets your preference.
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).