Marinated Broccoli Salad
A vibrant, crunchy broccoli salad marinated in a sweet and tangy dressing, perfect for potlucks, picnics, or as a refreshing side dish for any meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut broccoli flowerets and some stem into medium size pieces. Drain to dry completely.
- Put raisins into boiling water and drain immediately.
- Mix Miracle Whip, cider vinegar, sugar, and salt to make the dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the broccoli and mix well.
- Refrigerate overnight.
- Mix again before serving.
- Crisp bacon bits or sunflower seeds may be added before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using Greek yogurt instead of Miracle Whip. If you prefer a different flavor, apple cider vinegar can be substituted with white wine vinegar. To enhance the crunch, add sliced almonds or chopped walnuts. Ensure the broccoli is thoroughly dried after washing to prevent excess moisture in the salad. This dish is perfect for potlucks or as a side for American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This marinated broccoli salad makes a great side dish for grilled meats or sandwiches. It pairs beautifully with Martin'S Hamburger Casserole or a light summer dish like grilled chicken. For a complete meal, serve it alongside a protein like salmon or tofu to balance the flavors and textures.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad may become slightly soggy over time, so it's best to consume it fresh. If you want to enjoy it warm, gently reheat the broccoli in a microwave for about 30 seconds, although this will alter the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Marinated Broccoli Salad contains roughly 255 calories, with 9g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is a good source of protein (18% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (14% of the Daily Value), and iron (11% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 4g 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 salad actually benefits from sitting overnight as the flavors meld together. Just be sure to mix it again before serving to redistribute the dressing and ingredients.
What can I substitute for bacon?
If you want to omit the bacon, try adding smoked paprika or a dash of liquid smoke to the dressing for a similar flavor. Alternatively, you can use crispy chickpeas or toasted nuts for added crunch without the meat.
Is it possible to make this salad vegan?
Absolutely! To make this salad vegan, substitute Miracle Whip with a vegan mayonnaise and use maple syrup or a sweetener of your choice instead of sugar. This will keep the dish delicious while accommodating a plant-based diet.
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).