Loaded Broccoli Salad
Introduction
Loaded Broccoli Salad is an incredible dish packed with flavor, crunch, and healthy goodness. Perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or just a simple family dinner, this salad combines fresh broccoli, crispy bacon, cheese, and a creamy dressing that ties it all together. Not only is this dish mouthwateringly delicious, but it’s also incredibly easy to prepare. Let’s dive into how you can create this wholesome, satisfying salad for your next meal!
Detailed Ingredients with Measures
Ingredients:
• Broccoli florets (fresh) – 5 cups
• Shredded cheddar cheese – 1 cup
• Cooked and crumbled bacon – 8 slices
• Red onion, diced – 1/4 cup
• Sunflower seeds – 1/3 cup
• Raisins or dried cranberries (optional for sweetness) – 1/3 cup
Dressing:
• Mayonnaise – 1 cup
• Sour cream – 1/2 cup
• Granulated sugar – 2 tablespoons
• White vinegar – 2 tablespoons
Prep Time
This broccoli salad is quick to prepare. Set aside about 10-15 minutes to chop, dice, and mix all the ingredients for this recipe.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
As this is a no-cook salad, there’s no cook time needed, making this recipe time-efficient and simple. The total time required to prepare this delicious dish is approximately 15 minutes. Once ready, the recipe yields about 8 servings, perfect for family occasions or meal prep for the week.
Loaded Broccoli Salad is a versatile, easy-to-make dish that delivers both nutrition and taste in every bite. With its bold flavors and fresh ingredients, it’s sure to become a staple in your household recipes. Customize it by adding your favorite mix-ins, and enjoy this crowd-pleaser anytime!
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Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Bacon
Cook the bacon over medium heat in a large skillet until crispy. Remove from the skillet and place the cooked bacon on a plate lined with paper towels to drain the grease. Once cooled, crumble the bacon into small pieces and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Broccoli
Wash the broccoli thoroughly under cold water. Cut the broccoli into small, bite-sized florets, ensuring to remove any tough stems.
Step 3: Mix the Salad Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the broccoli florets, shredded cheddar cheese, diced red onions, sunflower seeds, and dried cranberries.
Step 4: Make the Dressing
In a separate small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, granulated sugar, and apple cider vinegar until smooth and well combined.
Step 5: Combine the Salad and Dressing
Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture in the large bowl. Gently toss everything together until the broccoli mixture is evenly coated with the dressing.
Step 6: Add the Bacon
Add the crumbled bacon to the salad. Give it another gentle toss to incorporate the bacon evenly throughout the salad.
Step 7: Chill the Salad
Cover the salad bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together. If desired, you may chill it for longer for enhanced flavor.
Step 8: Serve
Once chilled, remove the salad from the refrigerator and give it a light toss. Serve the salad cold as a side dish or enjoy it on its own.
Notes
Note on Broccoli
For a softer texture, you can blanch the broccoli by boiling it briefly and then placing it in ice water before using it in the salad. This step is optional and depends on personal preference.
Note on Bacon
If short on time, you can use store-bought pre-cooked bacon crumbles instead of cooking bacon from scratch.
Note on Sugar
Feel free to adjust the amount of sugar in the dressing based on your sweetness preference or substitute it with a natural sweetener if preferred.
Note on Add-Ins
The recipe can be customized by adding or substituting ingredients such as chopped nuts, shredded carrots, or diced apples to complement the salad.
Note on Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir the salad again before serving leftovers to redistribute the dressing.
Note on Serving Suggestions
This broccoli salad pairs well as a side dish with grilled meats, sandwiches, or as part of a holiday potluck or buffet-style meal.
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Cook Techniques
Preparing the Broccoli
To ensure the broccoli is fresh and clean, begin by washing it thoroughly under running water. Cut the florets into small, bite-sized pieces for optimal salad texture.
Crisping the Bacon
Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until it is crispy. Once cooked, place the bacon on a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess grease before crumbling it into small pieces.
Mixing the Salad Dressing
Combine the dressing ingredients in a separate bowl. Stir thoroughly to ensure all components are well blended, creating a creamy, flavorful dressing.
Chilling the Salad
Allow the assembled salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving to let the flavors blend together well.
FAQ
Can I use frozen broccoli?
While fresh broccoli is typically recommended for the best texture, you can use frozen broccoli. Make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly beforehand to avoid excess moisture in the salad.
How long does this salad last in the refrigerator?
When stored in an airtight container, this salad can remain fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Be sure to give it a good stir before serving.
Can I make this salad in advance?
Yes, this salad can be made in advance. Preparing it a day ahead can enhance the flavors as they meld together. Just keep it refrigerated until ready to serve.
Can I substitute the mayonnaise in the dressing?
Yes, you can substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or a plant-based alternative for a lighter or dairy-free option.
What can I add to customize the salad?
You can add extras like shredded cheese, sunflower seeds, raisins, or diced onions to customize the salad to your preference.
Conclusion
Loaded Broccoli Salad is a delicious and versatile dish that’s perfect for almost any occasion. Its combination of crisp vegetables, flavorful add-ins, and creamy dressing makes it a standout on the dinner table or at gatherings. Whether served as a side dish or enjoyed on its own, this salad brings a balance of nutrition and indulgence that everyone can appreciate. If you’re looking for a fresh twist on classic salad recipes, this is definitely one to try.
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