Oh, the joys of a cold broccoli salad on a warm day! This recipe is your ticket to a refreshing, crunchy, and utterly delicious side dish that’s perfect for picnics, potlucks, or just because. Packed with flavors and textures, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s as easy to make as it is to love.
Why This Recipe Works
- The combination of raw broccoli with a creamy, tangy dressing creates a perfect balance of flavors.
- Adding crispy bacon and sharp cheddar cheese introduces a savory depth that’s irresistible.
- Sunflower seeds bring a delightful crunch, elevating the texture profile.
- It’s a make-ahead dish, meaning the flavors meld and improve over time.
- Versatile and customizable, you can tweak it to suit your taste or dietary needs.
Ingredients
- 4 cups broccoli florets, chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
Equipment Needed
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
- Skillet (for bacon)
Instructions
Step 1: Prep Your Broccoli
Start by washing your broccoli florets under cold water. Pat them dry with a clean towel or paper towels to remove excess moisture. Chop the florets into bite-sized pieces, ensuring they’re small enough to eat comfortably but large enough to retain a satisfying crunch. Place the chopped broccoli in a large mixing bowl. Tip: For extra crispiness, you can chill the broccoli in the fridge for about 30 minutes before mixing.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper until smooth. The sugar helps balance the vinegar’s acidity, creating a dressing that’s tangy yet sweet. Adjust the seasoning to your taste, keeping in mind that the flavors will intensify as the salad chills. Tip: For a lighter version, you can substitute half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
Step 3: Combine the Ingredients
Pour the dressing over the broccoli in the large mixing bowl. Add the shredded cheddar cheese, diced red onion, sunflower seeds, and crumbled bacon. Gently toss everything together until the broccoli is evenly coated with the dressing and the other ingredients are well distributed. Tip: If you’re not a fan of raw onion, you can soak the diced pieces in cold water for 10 minutes to mellow their flavor.
Step 4: Chill Before Serving
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the salad to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. This resting period allows the flavors to meld together and the broccoli to slightly soften, making the salad even more delicious. For best results, chill for 2-4 hours.
Tips and Tricks
For those looking to take their cold broccoli salad to the next level, consider these advanced tips. First, toasting the sunflower seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes can enhance their nutty flavor. Second, if you’re preparing this salad for a crowd, doubling the recipe is easy, but remember to mix in the bacon and sunflower seeds just before serving to maintain their crunch. Lastly, for a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and add smoked almonds for a similar depth of flavor.
Recipe Variations
- Swap the cheddar cheese for feta or goat cheese for a different flavor profile.
- Add dried cranberries or raisins for a sweet contrast to the savory elements.
- Include chopped apples or grapes for a fruity twist.
- Use kale or Brussels sprouts instead of broccoli for a different green base.
- For a spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños to the dressing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, making it a day in advance allows the flavors to develop more fully. Just hold off on adding the bacon and sunflower seeds until you’re ready to serve to keep them crispy.
How long does the salad last in the fridge?
Stored in an airtight container, the salad will keep for up to 3 days. However, it’s best enjoyed within the first 24-48 hours for optimal texture and freshness.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
While you can use thawed frozen broccoli, the texture will be softer than with fresh. For the best crunch and flavor, fresh broccoli is recommended.
Summary
This cold broccoli salad is a refreshing, crunchy, and flavorful dish perfect for any occasion. Easy to make and customizable, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
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