Tropical Bacon Broccoli Delight
This Tropical Bacon Broccoli Delight salad combines the vibrant freshness of broccoli and pineapple with the savory crunch of bacon and the sweetness of raisins. A perfect dish for summer gatherings, this colorful salad not only tantalizes your taste buds but also offers a delightful medley of textures. Pair it with grilled meats or serve it as a standalone dish at potlucks, picnics, or family barbecues. Cool, creamy, and oh-so-satisfying, this salad is a crowd-pleaser that brings sunshine to any table!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
bacon
1 lb (cooked until crispy and crumbled)
broccoli florets
8 cups (fresh)
shredded cheddar cheese
2 cups (shredded)
pineapple tidbits
1 (8 ounce) can (drained)
raisins
1/2 cup (none)
red onion or Vidalia onion
1/3 cup (finely chopped)
mayonnaise or salad dressing
1 cup (none)
sugar
1/2 cup (none)
vinegar
1/4 cup (none)
Instructions
1
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy and golden brown, about 8-10 minutes. Remove the bacon from the skillet and drain on paper towels to remove excess fat. Once cooled, crumble the bacon into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
2
In a large mixing bowl, combine the broccoli florets, shredded cheddar cheese, pineapple tidbits (drained), raisins, and finely chopped red or Vidalia onion. Toss gently until the ingredients are evenly distributed.
3
In a separate small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sugar, and vinegar to create a smooth dressing. Ensure the sugar is fully dissolved for an even sweetness.
4
Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
5
Add the crumbled bacon to the salad and mix lightly to combine.
6
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for 2 to 4 hours to chill and allow the flavors to meld together.
7
Before serving, give the salad another gentle toss and enjoy the delicious blend of flavors!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Tropical Bacon Broccoli Delight?
It is a vibrant, creamy salad that combines fresh broccoli and pineapple with savory bacon, cheddar cheese, and raisins.
How much bacon do I need for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 1 lb of bacon, cooked until crispy and then crumbled.
What is the best way to prepare the broccoli?
You should use 8 cups of fresh broccoli florets, cut into bite-sized pieces.
What type of cheese is used in this salad?
The recipe recommends using 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese.
Should the pineapple be fresh or canned?
You should use one 8-ounce can of pineapple tidbits, making sure to drain them first.
What kind of onion should I use?
A red onion or a Vidalia onion is preferred; use 1/3 cup finely chopped.
What are the ingredients for the creamy dressing?
The dressing is made from 1 cup of mayonnaise (or salad dressing), 1/2 cup of sugar, and 1/4 cup of vinegar.
How do I ensure the dressing is smooth?
Whisk the mayonnaise, sugar, and vinegar together in a separate small bowl until the sugar is fully dissolved.
How long should the salad chill before serving?
It is best to refrigerate the salad for 2 to 4 hours to allow the flavors to meld together.
When should I add the bacon?
The crumbled bacon should be added to the salad and mixed lightly right before you put it in the refrigerator to chill.
Can I use a different type of fruit besides pineapple?
While pineapple provides the 'tropical' element, you could experiment with other fruits, though the original recipe specifically calls for pineapple tidbits.
Is this recipe suitable for a potluck?
Yes, it is an excellent choice for potlucks, picnics, and family barbecues because it is a crowd-pleaser.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can create a vegetarian version by omitting the bacon or using a plant-based bacon alternative.
What should I serve with Tropical Bacon Broccoli Delight?
It pairs very well with grilled meats or can be enjoyed as a standalone dish.
Do I need to cook the broccoli?
No, the broccoli is used fresh and raw to provide a crisp texture to the salad.
Can I use Miracle Whip instead of mayonnaise?
Yes, the recipe allows for mayonnaise or a similar salad dressing like Miracle Whip.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
While not specified exactly, 8 cups of broccoli and 1 lb of bacon generally serve a large group of 8 to 12 people as a side.
Can I use golden raisins instead of regular raisins?
Yes, golden raisins are a perfectly fine substitute for regular raisins in this recipe.
How long does the bacon take to cook?
It typically takes about 8-10 minutes over medium heat to reach a crispy and golden brown state.
Should I toss the salad again after chilling?
Yes, give the salad a gentle toss just before serving to redistribute the dressing and ingredients.
Can I reduce the amount of sugar in the dressing?
Yes, you can adjust the sugar to your personal preference, though 1/2 cup provides the traditional sweet-and-savory balance.
What type of vinegar is best for the dressing?
White vinegar or apple cider vinegar work well for this type of broccoli salad dressing.
Is this salad gluten-free?
The primary ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but always check the labels on your mayonnaise, bacon, and cheese.
Can I add nuts to this recipe?
Yes, sunflower seeds or sliced almonds would make a great addition for extra crunch.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
Why is it called 'Tropical'?
The addition of pineapple tidbits gives the traditional broccoli salad a tropical twist.
Can I make this salad a day in advance?
Yes, making it the night before can help the flavors develop, though the bacon may lose some of its crunch.
Is the broccoli supposed to be chopped small?
Yes, smaller florets are easier to eat and allow for better dressing coverage.
What is the texture of the salad?
It offers a medley of textures including crunchy broccoli, crispy bacon, chewy raisins, and a creamy dressing.
Can I use frozen pineapple?
You can use frozen pineapple if you thaw and drain it thoroughly first, though canned tidbits are most convenient.