Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this Amish broccoli salad! It’s the ultimate crunchy, fresh delight that always steals the show at gatherings. I remember the first time I tasted it at a summer picnic; the combination of crisp broccoli, savory bacon, and creamy dressing just blew me away. It’s a side dish that complements any meal perfectly, whether it’s a barbecue, a holiday feast, or just a cozy dinner at home. Trust me, once you serve this vibrant salad, everyone will be asking for the recipe. Get ready to impress your friends and family!

Ingredients for Amish Broccoli Salad

To whip up this refreshing Amish broccoli salad, you’ll need a handful of simple ingredients that pack a punch of flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

4 cups fresh broccoli florets (make sure they’re bright green and crisp!)
1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled (the more, the merrier—who doesn’t love bacon?)
1/2 cup red onion, chopped (for that crunchy kick and beautiful color)
1/2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded (sharp or mild, your choice!)
1/2 cup raisins (for a touch of sweetness that balances it all)
1/2 cup mayonnaise (this is the creamy magic that brings it together)
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (to add a zing of tanginess)
2 tablespoons sugar (just a hint to enhance the flavors)

That’s it! Gather these ingredients, and you’re on your way to creating this delightful salad.

How to Prepare Amish Broccoli Salad

Preparing this Amish broccoli salad is a breeze! Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious salad ready in no time. To start, make sure to chill the salad for at least one hour before serving, so all those flavors can mingle and the salad can be perfectly crisp.

Step-by-Step Instructions

First, grab a large mixing bowl, and toss in those vibrant broccoli florets. You want to make sure they’re fresh and crunchy for the best texture!
Next, sprinkle in the crumbled bacon, chopped red onion, shredded cheddar cheese, and sweet raisins. The colors and textures will be so inviting!
In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and sugar until smooth. This creamy dressing is what ties everything together.
Now, pour that lovely dressing over your broccoli mixture. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to gently toss everything together, ensuring every piece gets coated in that delicious dressing.
Once combined, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, and pop it in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least one hour before serving. This step is key for all those flavors to develop!

Why You’ll Love This Amish Broccoli Salad

This Amish broccoli salad is not just a side dish; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures that you’ll absolutely adore! Here’s why it’s a must-try:

Fresh and crunchy: The crisp broccoli and juicy raisins create a delightful contrast.
Easy to prepare: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a delicious salad ready in no time.
Flavor-packed: The combination of savory bacon, creamy dressing, and tangy vinegar makes every bite irresistible.
Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a picnic, potluck, or family dinner, this salad fits right in.
Always a crowd-pleaser: Trust me, everyone will be coming back for seconds!

Tips for Success with Amish Broccoli Salad

To make your Amish broccoli salad truly shine, here are some handy tips! First off, always use fresh broccoli for that perfect crunch. If you’re looking for a lighter option, feel free to swap in turkey bacon instead of regular bacon. Want to add a little extra flavor? Toss in some sunflower seeds or chopped nuts for a delightful crunch! You can also experiment with different cheeses—feta or pepper jack can add a nice twist. And don’t forget, letting the salad chill for a bit is crucial for those flavors to meld together beautifully. Enjoy the process!

Nutritional Information for Amish Broccoli Salad

This Amish broccoli salad not only tastes fantastic but is also a satisfying addition to your meal! Here’s a quick look at the estimated nutritional values per serving (about 1 cup):

Calories: 250
Fat: 20g
Protein: 6g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Sugar: 6g
Fiber: 3g

Keep in mind, these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients used. Enjoy this deliciously nutritious salad guilt-free!

FAQ About Amish Broccoli Salad

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, making it a few hours in advance or even the day before allows the flavors to blend beautifully. Just keep it chilled in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.

How long does this salad last in the fridge?
You can keep your Amish broccoli salad in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container. Just give it a gentle toss before serving, as the dressing may separate slightly.

Can I use a different type of cheese?
Definitely! While cheddar is a classic choice, you can experiment with feta, mozzarella, or even pepper jack for a little kick. The possibilities are endless!

What can I substitute for bacon?
If you want a vegetarian version, you can use crispy chickpeas or skip the bacon altogether. It’ll still be delicious!

Is there a way to make this salad lighter?
Sure! You can substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise or use a light mayo to cut down on calories while keeping that creamy texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing your Amish broccoli salad is super easy! Just transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and pop it in the fridge, where it’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. There’s no need to reheat this salad—it’s best enjoyed chilled! If you find the dressing has thickened after a day or two, you can stir in a splash of mayo or a bit of yogurt to bring back that creamy consistency. Enjoy every bite!

Serving Suggestions for Amish Broccoli Salad

This Amish broccoli salad is such a versatile side dish that pairs beautifully with just about anything! I love serving it alongside grilled chicken or barbecue ribs for a summer cookout. It also makes a delightful addition to potlucks and family gatherings. If you’re having a cozy dinner at home, try it with a hearty meatloaf or a savory quiche. Trust me, the freshness of this salad will brighten up any meal!

For more delicious recipes, check out our all recipes page!

For a great side dish idea, consider making honey-glazed carrots to complement your meal.

For more information on the health benefits of broccoli, you can visit Healthline.

Amish Broccoli Salad: 5 Reasons You’ll Love This Fresh Dish

Author: Lisa
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Category: Salad
Method: Mixing
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

A fresh and crunchy salad featuring broccoli, bacon, and a creamy dressing.

Ingredients

Scale

4 cups fresh broccoli florets
1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
1/2 cup red onion, chopped
1/2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
1/2 cup raisins
1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
2 tablespoons sugar

Instructions

In a large bowl, combine broccoli, bacon, red onion, cheese, and raisins.
In a separate bowl, mix mayonnaise, vinegar, and sugar.
Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture and toss to coat.
Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving.

Notes

Use fresh broccoli for best texture.
Substitute turkey bacon for a lighter option.
Add sunflower seeds for extra crunch.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 250
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 400mg
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 15g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 6g
Cholesterol: 15mg

Keywords: amish broccoli salad, broccoli salad, side dish, salad recipe

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