Louella'S Broccoli Salad
Louella's Broccoli Salad is a crunchy, cheesy, and savory dish perfect for gatherings and potlucks. Combining fresh broccoli, crispy bacon, grated cheese, and a tangy dressing, it's a refreshing side that appeals to all ages and pairs well with grilled meats or picnic spreads.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry the bacon until crisp and break into pieces.
- Cut the broccoli finely and slice the red onion thinly.
- In a large bowl, combine the broccoli, red onion, grated cheese, and bacon.
- In a separate small bowl, mix the salad dressing, sugar, and lemon juice until well blended.
- Pour the dressing mixture over the salad ingredients and toss to coat evenly.
- Optional: Add cauliflower if desired for extra crunch.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using Greek yogurt instead of traditional salad dressing. You can also substitute the bacon with turkey bacon or smoked almonds for a healthier option. If you prefer a sharper flavor, try adding crumbled feta cheese or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. This salad is versatile, and you can easily incorporate other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers.
Serving Suggestions
This broccoli salad is perfect as a side dish for summer barbecues or potlucks. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats, such as Pork Tenderloin With Onion-Raisin Sauce or Barbecued Duck Breasts. For a complete meal, serve it alongside a hearty main dish or with a light soup. Garnish with additional bacon or nuts for extra texture.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover broccoli salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The dressing may make the broccoli slightly softer over time, so it's best enjoyed fresh. If needed, you can refresh the salad by adding a bit more dressing before serving to enhance its flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Louella'S Broccoli Salad contains roughly 110 calories, with 5g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein.
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 ingredients in advance, but it's best to add the dressing just before serving to keep the broccoli crisp. If you want to prepare it earlier, store the dressing separately and combine everything just before serving for optimal freshness.
What can I substitute for the cheese?
If you're looking for a dairy-free option, you can omit the cheese or use a plant-based cheese alternative. Nutritional yeast can also provide a cheesy flavor without the dairy. Alternatively, try adding sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a nutty essence.
Is there a way to make this salad healthier?
Absolutely! To make it healthier, use a light or homemade dressing with less sugar, and consider adding more fresh vegetables like diced bell peppers or shredded carrots. You can also reduce the amount of bacon or replace it with a leaner protein like grilled chicken or chickpeas.
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).