Norma'S Broccoli Salad
A vibrant and crunchy broccoli salad with crispy bacon, mild cheese, and a simple dressing, perfect for potlucks, picnics, or casual gatherings that love bold flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the bacon until crispy, then crumble it into small pieces.
- Cut the broccoli into bite-sized pieces and chop the onion.
- In a large bowl, combine the broccoli, chopped onion, crumbled bacon, and cheese chunks.
- Toss the mixture with your preferred dressing until evenly coated.
- Optional: top with red or green pepper or add cauliflower for extra flavor and crunch.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate to allow flavors to meld before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using a smoked bacon instead of regular for a deeper taste. If you need a vegetarian option, substitute the bacon with toasted sunflower seeds or chickpeas for crunch. You can also use a sharp cheddar instead of Havarti for a more robust flavor. Adjust the dressing to your liking; a tangy vinaigrette works well or try a creamy dressing for a richer taste.
Serving Suggestions
This broccoli salad is perfect as a side dish for grilled meats or sandwiches. It pairs beautifully with Pork Sausage Brunch or Ham On The Grill. For a complete meal, serve it alongside a light soup or a fresh garden salad. You can also add sliced red or green peppers for extra color and crunch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld beautifully as it sits. To reheat, gently warm in the microwave or serve cold as a refreshing side dish. If you prefer, allow it to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Norma'S Broccoli Salad contains roughly 101 calories, with 4g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 7g fat.
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 few hours in advance. Just keep it in the refrigerator until you're ready to serve. If using a creamy dressing, consider adding it just before serving to prevent the salad from getting soggy.
What kind of dressing should I use?
A tangy vinaigrette or a creamy dressing like ranch or blue cheese works well with this salad. You can also make a homemade dressing using olive oil, vinegar, and mustard for a fresh flavor that complements the ingredients.
Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to add diced bell peppers, shredded carrots, or even cauliflower for extra crunch and nutrition. This salad is versatile, so you can customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
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).