Kay'S Broccoli Salad
A vibrant broccoli salad with crunchy bacon bits, sweet raisins, and a tangy cole slaw dressing, perfect for potlucks, picnics, or a refreshing side dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Finely chop the broccoli and place it in a large mixing bowl.
- Add sliced red onion or water chestnuts to the broccoli.
- Stir in raisins for sweetness.
- Pour McCormick cole slaw dressing over the mixture.
- Sprinkle bacon bits on top and toss to combine.
- Serve immediately or chill before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added crunch, consider using both red onion and water chestnuts; the latter will enhance the texture. If you're looking for a lighter option, substitute the cole slaw dressing with a homemade vinaigrette. You can also experiment with different dried fruits like cranberries or apricots instead of raisins for a unique twist. This salad can be made a few hours ahead, making it perfect for gatherings.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Kay's Broccoli Salad as a refreshing side dish alongside grilled meats or barbecue roasts. It pairs beautifully with dishes like Baked Fresh Ham With Sherry Baste for a balanced meal. For a potluck, consider pairing it with American recipes like Excellent Breakfast Casserole for a variety of flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld together, enhancing the taste. If the salad seems a bit dry after refrigeration, add a splash of cole slaw dressing before serving. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the broccoli will suffer.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Kay'S Broccoli Salad contains roughly 76 calories, with 5g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is a good source of protein (10% 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 use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
While fresh broccoli is recommended for the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen broccoli. Just make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly to avoid excess moisture in the salad.
How can I make this salad vegetarian?
To make Kay's Broccoli Salad vegetarian, simply omit the bacon bits or replace them with crispy chickpeas or sunflower seeds for added crunch and flavor. This way, you maintain the salad's texture without sacrificing taste.
Is there a way to make this salad more filling?
To make the salad more filling, consider adding protein sources like grilled chicken, tofu, or even chickpeas. This will transform it into a heartier meal option while keeping the original flavors intact.
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).