This vibrant and crunchy Easy Broccoli Salad is a delightful mix of fresh broccoli, sharp cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and a creamy dressing. It’s a perfect side dish for any gathering, offering a refreshing taste that complements a variety of main courses. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, a holiday dinner, or just looking for a quick and nutritious salad to accompany your meal, this recipe is a winner!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This Easy Broccoli Salad is not only simple to prepare but also incredibly versatile. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a dish that’s packed with flavor and texture. The combination of fresh broccoli and crispy bacon provides a satisfying crunch, while the creamy dressing ties everything together beautifully. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies without sacrificing taste. Whether you’re following a low-carb diet or simply looking to eat healthier, this salad can easily be modified to fit your needs.
Introduction
Broccoli is often overlooked in salads, but this Easy Broccoli Salad showcases the vegetable in a delicious way. With its bright green florets and crunchy texture, broccoli is not only visually appealing but also loaded with vitamins and minerals. This recipe elevates broccoli to a new level by combining it with savory elements like bacon and cheese, making it a favorite among both kids and adults. The creamy coleslaw dressing adds a touch of sweetness and tang, creating a perfect balance of flavors.
In this article, we will walk you through the steps to create this delightful salad, discuss its nutritional benefits, and provide tips for making it your own. Let’s dive into the ingredients and preparation!
Ingredients:
- 2 (12-ounce) bags of raw broccoli florets
- 1/2 cup red onion, chopped
- 1 cup mild cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, chopped
- 1 cup creamy coleslaw dressing (look for options with 2 carbs or less for keto)
Preparation:
Step 1: Begin by washing the broccoli florets thoroughly under cold running water. This will help remove any dirt or impurities. Once cleaned, pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towel.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the raw broccoli florets and chopped red onion. The red onion adds a nice crunch and a hint of sweetness that complements the broccoli beautifully.
Step 3: Next, add the shredded cheddar cheese to the bowl. The cheese adds a rich, creamy flavor that pairs perfectly with the other ingredients.
Step 4: Toss in the chopped cooked bacon. The bacon not only adds a savory element but also a delightful crunch that makes this salad irresistible.
Step 5: Finally, drizzle the creamy coleslaw dressing over the mixture. Use a spatula or large spoon to gently fold all the ingredients together until everything is well-coated with the dressing. Once mixed, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Serving Suggestions:
This Easy Broccoli Salad is a versatile side dish that can accompany a wide range of meals. It pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, barbecue ribs, or even a hearty steak. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a protein-rich dish, such as roasted salmon or a veggie burger. You can also enjoy it as a light lunch on its own or with whole-grain crackers for added crunch.
Tips:
- Make it Ahead: This salad can be prepared a day in advance, making it perfect for meal prep or gatherings. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Customize Your Ingredients: Feel free to add or substitute ingredients based on your preferences. You can include nuts for added crunch, swap the cheddar for a different cheese, or add diced apples for a touch of sweetness.
- Adjust the Dressing: If you prefer a creamier salad, feel free to add more dressing to taste. For a lighter option, you can use Greek yogurt mixed with a bit of vinegar as a healthier alternative.
- Garnish: Top the salad with additional bacon, cheese, or even sunflower seeds for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even tastier the next day!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes (no cooking required)
Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes (including chilling time)
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 10g
- Sodium: 450mg
Conclusion
The Easy Broccoli Salad with Cheddar and Bacon is a delightful dish that brings together fresh ingredients in a way that’s both delicious and nutritious. Its simplicity and versatility make it an ideal choice for any occasion, from casual family dinners to festive gatherings. With just a few easy steps, you can create a salad that is sure to impress your guests and become a staple in your recipe collection. Enjoy the burst of flavors and the satisfying crunch that this salad offers, and don’t hesitate to customize it to suit your taste!
Questions and Answers about this Recipe
- Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli, but it’s best to thaw it and drain any excess water before mixing it into the salad. Fresh broccoli gives the best crunch and flavor. - Is this salad suitable for a low-carb diet?
Absolutely! By using a low-carb coleslaw dressing, this salad can fit perfectly into a low-carb or keto diet. Just be mindful of the dressing and cheese portions. - Can I make this salad vegan?
Yes! You can substitute the bacon with crispy chickpeas or tempeh for added crunch and protein. Use a vegan cheese alternative and a plant-based dressing to make it completely vegan. - How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even tastier the next day! - What can I serve this salad with?
This salad pairs well with a variety of dishes, such as grilled meats, burgers, or even as a topping for a baked potato. It’s also great on its own for a light lunch!
