Laura'S Broccoli Salad
A crunchy, creamy broccoli salad with bacon and cheddar, perfect for picnics, potlucks, or casual gatherings, offering a delightful combination of savory, tangy, and cheesy flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Finely chop the heads of broccoli (not stems).
- Cook bacon until crisp, then crumble.
- Grate the Cheddar cheese.
- Mix mayonnaise, white vinegar, and sugar together and set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, crumbled bacon, and grated cheese.
- Toss the mixture with the mayonnaise and vinegar dressing.
- Chill the salad before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added crunch, consider incorporating sunflower seeds or almonds into the salad. If you're looking for a lighter version, Greek yogurt can be used instead of mayonnaise for a tangy twist. You can also experiment with different cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for added flavor. This salad can be made ahead of time and tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.
Serving Suggestions
This broccoli salad is a great side dish for barbecues, picnics, or as a potluck contribution. It pairs beautifully with dishes like Louisiana Pecan Pork or Mom'S Crock-Pot Beans 'N Tomatoes. Serve it alongside grilled meats or other salads for a complete meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To keep the salad fresh, try to avoid dressing it until you're ready to serve. If you want to reheat, gently warm in the microwave, but note that the salad is best served cold.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Laura'S Broccoli Salad contains roughly 175 calories, with 4g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (15% 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 the salad a day in advance. Just mix the broccoli, bacon, and cheese together, and keep the dressing separate until you're ready to serve to maintain freshness and crunch.
What can I substitute for bacon?
If you want a vegetarian version, consider using smoked tempeh or crispy chickpeas as a substitute for bacon. Both add a nice crunch and flavor without the meat.
Is there a way to make this salad healthier?
Absolutely! You can reduce the sugar in the dressing or use a sugar substitute. Additionally, swapping mayonnaise for a lighter option like Greek yogurt can cut calories while adding protein.
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).