Amish Broccoli Salad
Introduction
Amish broccoli salad is a timeless dish that brings together fresh broccoli, crisp vegetables, smoky bacon, and a sweet creamy dressing. This salad is well loved because it balances crunch, creaminess, and flavor so beautifully. It often appears on potluck tables and family gatherings since it can be made ahead of time and served chilled. The appeal of this salad lies not only in its taste but also in its simplicity, making it a favorite recipe for home cooks who want a dish that is both wholesome and satisfying.
When served alongside main dishes, the salad adds a refreshing contrast with its bright colors and varied textures. The slight sweetness of the dressing combined with the saltiness of bacon and crunch of sunflower seeds creates a combination that pleases almost every palate. Preparing Amish broccoli salad is also a wonderful way to encourage eating vegetables in a more exciting way. By the end of the meal, it often becomes the dish that everyone remembers.
Ingredients Needed
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh broccoli | 4 cups | 120 |
| Red onion | ½ cup diced | 30 |
| Bacon (cooked, crumbled) | 1 cup | 400 |
| Sunflower seeds | ½ cup | 200 |
| Raisins or dried cranberries | ½ cup | 200 |
| Cheddar cheese (shredded) | 1 cup | 400 |
| Mayonnaise | 1 cup | 680 |
| Apple cider vinegar | 2 tbsp | 6 |
| Sugar or honey | 3 tbsp | 140 |
| Salt and pepper | To taste | 0 |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Wash the broccoli thoroughly under cold water and pat it dry before cutting into small bite-sized florets.
- Dice the red onion into small pieces so it blends smoothly with the other ingredients.
- Cook the bacon until crispy, then crumble it into small bits and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the broccoli florets, diced onion, shredded cheddar cheese, raisins, and sunflower seeds.
- In a smaller bowl, prepare the dressing by whisking together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar or honey, salt, and black pepper until creamy.
- Taste the dressing and adjust sweetness or tanginess according to preference.
- Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture.
- Gently toss everything together until all the ingredients are coated evenly.
- Sprinkle the crumbled bacon on top and mix lightly, leaving some pieces visible for presentation.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least one hour before serving to let the flavors meld together.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
Broccoli salad is highly adaptable, so you can change ingredients to fit your taste. If you prefer a lighter version, use Greek yogurt in place of part of the mayonnaise. Adding sliced grapes instead of raisins can bring a fresher sweetness, while roasted almonds or pecans can replace sunflower seeds for a nuttier crunch. For a smoky twist, use smoked cheddar cheese or even add a few drops of liquid smoke to the dressing. Those who enjoy extra color can include diced red bell peppers or shredded carrots. Each variation keeps the salad exciting and unique.
Nutritional Information
A single one cup serving of Amish broccoli salad provides about:
- Calories: 290
- Protein: 8 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Sugar: 9 g
- Fat: 21 g
The salad is rich in vitamins from fresh broccoli, calcium from cheese, and protein from bacon. It also offers healthy fats from sunflower seeds. While slightly indulgent due to the creamy dressing, it remains a balanced and satisfying side dish.
Serving Suggestions
Amish broccoli salad makes a wonderful side for grilled meats, baked chicken, or roasted turkey. It pairs well with hearty soups and casseroles because its crunch and creaminess provide balance. When preparing a summer picnic or holiday buffet, this salad adds both beauty and flavor to the table. For everyday meals, it can be served as a lunch option on its own or alongside a sandwich. Presenting it in a clear glass bowl highlights its vibrant colors and makes it even more appealing to guests.
Conclusion
Amish broccoli salad brings comfort and freshness in every bite. Its combination of crunchy vegetables, sweet dried fruit, smoky bacon, and creamy dressing makes it a crowd-pleasing dish for any occasion. Preparing it ahead of time not only saves effort but also enhances the flavors as they meld together in the refrigerator. Whether served at a casual lunch or a festive dinner, this salad is always enjoyed by family and friends. Sharing a bowl of Amish broccoli salad is more than just offering food, it is creating memories around the table.