A fresh, vibrant Broccoli Salad adorned with crispy bacon and crunchy almonds is a delightful addition to any meal. This salad comes together in just 30 minutes and works perfectly as a side dish for gatherings. The combination of textures and flavors—crunchy, creamy, and smoky—makes it irresistible.
This recipe is ideal for potlucks, picnics, or even a quick weeknight dinner. The flavors marry beautifully when made ahead, and it stores well in the refrigerator for a couple of days.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- The crisp fresh broccoli adds a delightful crunch.
- Smoky bacon pieces enhance the salad’s richness.
- A creamy dressing binds the ingredients perfectly.
- It can be made ahead for busy days.
What You’ll Need
Gather these ingredients to create your delicious dish.
For the Salad
- 4 cups fresh broccoli, chopped
- 6 slices smoked bacon, cooked and chopped
- ½ medium red onion, diced
- ½ cup sliced almonds, toasted
For the Dressing
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 2 tbsp vinegar
Note: You can use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter option.
Substitutions & Swaps
- Use walnuts instead of sliced almonds.
- Substitute apple cider vinegar for white vinegar.
- Swap crispy chicken for bacon for a healthier option.
- Use red cabbage if broccoli is unavailable.
How to Make It
Start with these simple steps for a delicious salad.
Cook the bacon
Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, then chop it into pieces.
Combine ingredients
In a large bowl, combine chopped broccoli, bacon, red onion, and sliced almonds.
Mix the dressing
In a separate bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sugar, and vinegar until smooth.
Toss the salad
Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss to combine evenly.
Chill the salad
Chill the combined salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
How to Store It
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: No, it doesn’t freeze well because of the dressing.
Reheat: Not needed, best served cold.
Tips for Best Results
- Use fresh broccoli for optimal crunch.
- Toast the almonds for an enhanced flavor.
- Adjust sugar based on your sweetness preference.
- Allow the salad to chill to let flavors meld together.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve as a side dish at BBQs and cookouts.
- Pair with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.
- Enjoy at potlucks or family gatherings for a crowd-pleaser.
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