Trees And Raisins Salad
A crunchy, sweet-and-savory broccoli salad with raisins, sunflower kernels, and crispy bacon, perfect for potlucks, picnics, or as a refreshing side dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine broccoli, raisins, sunflower kernels, and chopped onion in a large bowl.
- Blend mayonnaise, sugar, and vinegar; pour over the vegetable mixture.
- Stir to coat all ingredients well.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Just before serving, sprinkle the crumbled bacon on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For added crunch, consider substituting the sunflower kernels with chopped walnuts or pecans. If you prefer a lighter dressing, Greek yogurt can replace the mayonnaise for a tangy flavor. To enhance the sweetness, opt for honey instead of sugar. Ensure the broccoli is fresh and vibrant for the best taste. This salad is reminiscent of Marinated Broccoli Salad, making it a delightful addition to any gathering.
Serving Suggestions
This salad is perfect as a side dish for summer barbecues, pairing nicely with grilled meats or sandwiches. Consider serving it alongside dishes like Martin'S Hamburger Casserole for a hearty meal. For a more balanced meal, add some grilled chicken or shrimp on top for protein, transforming it into a light main course.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Trees And Raisins Salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If the salad becomes too watery, simply stir it before serving. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the broccoli and bacon may change upon thawing. Serve cold for the best flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Trees And Raisins Salad contains roughly 334 calories, with 8g protein, 47g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (26% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. It also contributes 6g 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
Is there a way to reduce the sugar in the dressing?
Absolutely! You can reduce the sugar amount by half or use a sugar substitute like stevia or agave syrup. Adjust the sweetness to your preference, keeping in mind that the raisins add natural sweetness to the salad.
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).