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This classic Amish broccoli salad is the first thing gone at every summer picnic and makes a bright addition to holiday tables. The creamy-tangy dressing clings to crisp broccoli, sharp cheddar, smoky bacon, and sweet raisins for the best balance of flavors and textures in every bite.
I started making this when our local grocery had a sale on broccoli and now it is my most requested potluck dish. Even kids who side-eye greens have asked for seconds.
Ingredients
- Broccoli florets: Choose bright green heads with tight buds and no yellowing. Breaking into bite-size pieces helps the dressing coat every bit.
- Red onion: Use half of a small one for sharp zing in the background. Choose ones that feel firm and smell fresh.
- Sharp cheddar cheese: Aged cheddar gives tang and richness. Shred fresh from the block for best flavor.
- Raisins: Classic option for sweetness that balances tangy dressing. Dried cranberries work for a twist.
- Bacon: Smoky crisp bacon gives the salad its signature depth. Use thick-cut for more chew or regular for crispiness.
- Sunflower seeds: Optional but highly recommended for a nutty crunch. Toasted seeds taste best.
- Mayonnaise: Full-fat makes the creamiest dressing. Choose one with minimal extra ingredients for best result.
- Apple cider vinegar: Adds tang and helps soften the broccoli slightly as it chills. Raw, unfiltered is most flavorful.
- Granulated sugar: Essential for the sweet-tart dressing balance. Adjust up or down to your taste.
- Salt and black pepper: Just enough to bring the flavors together. Use freshly ground pepper for a little bite.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Bacon:
- Cook bacon over medium heat in a skillet until deeply crispy then transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain and crumble when cool
- Mix the Vegetables and Cheese:
- Combine broccoli florets red onion cheddar cheese raisins and sunflower seeds in a large mixing bowl. Break up any extra large chunks of broccoli
- Make the Dressing:
- In a small bowl whisk together mayonnaise apple cider vinegar sugar salt and black pepper until completely smooth and glossy
- Dress the Salad:
- Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture. Scrape the bowl to get every bit and toss thoroughly so each piece is coated. Don’t be afraid to use your hands for the last toss
- Add the Bacon:
- Just before serving scatter in the crumbled bacon. Gently toss to combine so every bite gets some smoky crispness
- Chill for Best Flavor:
- Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the broccoli to mellow
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This salad often brings up memories of my grandmother’s kitchen. Among all her recipes I always looked forward to this one during family reunions because it was both hearty and refreshingly cool after running around outside
Storage Tips
Keep the salad covered and refrigerated. It stays crisp for up to two days though bacon will soften over time. If you want to keep bacon crisp store it separately and toss right before serving
Ingredient Substitutions
Greek yogurt can replace half the mayonnaise for a lighter but still creamy dressing. For a vegetarian salad swap out bacon for roasted chickpeas or smoked almonds. Dried cranberries or chopped dates work if you are not a fan of raisins
Serving Suggestions
Serve it as a side to grilled meats, fried chicken or barbecue. For a single bowl lunch add leftover roasted chicken or sliced hard-boiled eggs. The sweet and savory mix also makes this a hit at potlucks and family brunches
A Little History
Broccoli salad in some variation has roots in midwestern church suppers and Amish country cookouts. It became popular because it uses everyday items and holds up well for long gatherings. The addition of bacon and cheddar is a classic American touch
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Common Questions
- → Can I make Amish broccoli salad ahead?
Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance. For best texture, add bacon and sunflower seeds just before serving.
- → What can I use instead of mayonnaise?
For a lighter option, use half Greek yogurt and half mayonnaise in the dressing for creamy consistency.
- → How do I keep the salad crisp?
Mix in the dressing just before serving and chill the salad; this preserves the crunch of the broccoli florets.
- → Is the salad gluten-free?
The base ingredients are gluten-free but always check condiment and bacon labels to confirm if you have sensitivities.
- → Can I make this salad vegetarian?
Omit bacon or substitute with vegetarian or turkey bacon for a meat-free version.
- → How long does leftover salad stay fresh?
Covered and refrigerated, the salad stays tasty for up to 2 days. Stir before serving leftovers for best flavor.