Reunion Salad
A crunchy, sweet and savory broccoli salad with raisins, pecans, and a tangy dressing, perfect for potlucks, picnics, or a refreshing side dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Clean, trim, and cut broccoli into small flowerettes.
- In a large bowl, combine onions, raisins, and pecans.
- Mix together mayonnaise, milk, vinegar, and Equal until smooth to make the dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss to combine.
- Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Cover and refrigerate overnight to let flavors meld.
- Just before serving, top with crumbled bacon and toss again.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider substituting Greek yogurt for half of the mayonnaise for a tangy twist. If you prefer a nuttier taste, try using sunflower seeds instead of pecans. Ensure the broccoli is fresh and crisp for the best texture. You can also add other vegetables like bell peppers or celery for extra crunch. This dish can be made a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
This salad is perfect for potlucks or picnics, especially alongside grilled meats or sandwiches. It pairs beautifully with American recipes like Quick Ham And Bean Soup for a hearty meal. Consider serving it on a bed of greens or with crackers for added crunch. For a festive touch, garnish with additional bacon or fresh herbs.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad may become watery as it sits, so give it a good stir before serving. If the salad thickens too much, you can stir in a little extra milk to bring it back to a creamy consistency. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the broccoli won't hold up well.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Reunion Salad contains roughly 280 calories, with 5g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is a good source of protein (11% 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 be sure to cover it tightly in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, enhancing the overall taste. However, add the bacon just before serving to keep it crispy.
What can I substitute for the mayonnaise?
If you're looking for a lighter option, consider using Greek yogurt or a vegan mayonnaise alternative. This will provide creaminess while reducing calories. For a unique flavor, you might also try a tahini dressing, which adds a nutty taste that complements the broccoli well.
Is there a way to add more protein to this salad?
Absolutely! You can add cooked chicken, diced hard-boiled eggs, or even chickpeas for a protein boost. These additions will make the salad more filling and turn it into a complete meal. Just be sure to adjust the dressing quantity if you add extra ingredients.
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).