Ultimate Broccoli and Bacon Delight Salad
Transform your gatherings with this delicious Ultimate Broccoli and Bacon Delight Salad! Loaded with fresh broccoli, creamy Swiss cheese, and crispy bacon, this salad is a perfect blend of flavors and textures. The tangy dressing, featuring a mix of mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and a hint of cayenne, elevates the dish to new heights. Ideal for potlucks, picnics, or family dinners, this crowd-pleaser can be prepared a day in advance for the best flavor. Serve chilled and enjoy the compliments!
4-6
Servings
133
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
broccoli
1 head (cut into bite-sized florets)
swiss cheese
1/2 lb (grated)
green onions
2 (chopped)
mayonnaise
1/2 cup (none)
white sugar
1/4 cup (none)
apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon (none)
cayenne pepper
1 dash (none)
bacon
1/2 lb (fried crisp and crumbled)
Instructions
1
Begin by washing the head of broccoli thoroughly. Cut the florets into bite-sized pieces, and also chop up the stems if desired for added crunch.
2
In a large mixing bowl, combine the broccoli florets with the grated Swiss cheese and chopped green onions. Toss gently to mix the ingredients evenly.
3
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, white sugar, apple cider vinegar, and cayenne pepper until smooth and well combined.
4
Drizzle the dressing over the broccoli mixture and stir gently to ensure that all the ingredients are coated evenly with the dressing.
5
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.
6
Before serving, add half of the crumbled bacon to the salad and give it a gentle stir. Top with the remaining bacon for a crunchy finish. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Nutrition Information
9g
Fat
8g
Carbs
5g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Ultimate Broccoli and Bacon Delight Salad?
It is a creamy and crunchy salad featuring fresh broccoli florets, crispy bacon, and Swiss cheese tossed in a tangy mayonnaise-based dressing.
What are the primary ingredients for this salad?
The main ingredients include fresh broccoli, Swiss cheese, green onions, bacon, mayonnaise, white sugar, apple cider vinegar, and a dash of cayenne pepper.
Can I make this broccoli salad ahead of time?
Yes, it is recommended to refrigerate the salad for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to fully meld before serving.
How should the broccoli be prepared?
Wash the broccoli thoroughly and cut it into bite-sized florets. You can also chop the stems for extra crunch.
What type of cheese is used in this recipe?
This recipe specifically calls for 1/2 lb of grated Swiss cheese.
How do I keep the bacon crispy in the salad?
To maintain maximum crunch, wait to add the crumbled bacon until just before you are ready to serve the salad.
What ingredients make up the dressing?
The dressing is a whisked mixture of mayonnaise, white sugar, apple cider vinegar, and a dash of cayenne pepper.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe provides approximately 4 to 6 servings.
Is this broccoli salad spicy?
It has a very subtle kick from a single dash of cayenne pepper, but it is generally considered mild and savory.
Can I substitute the Swiss cheese?
While Swiss cheese provides a unique flavor, you could substitute it with sharp cheddar or Monterey Jack if preferred.
How many calories are in a serving?
There are approximately 133 calories per serving of this salad.
Is the broccoli cooked or raw?
The broccoli is served raw in this recipe, which provides a fresh and crunchy texture.
What type of vinegar should I use?
The recipe calls for apple cider vinegar, which adds a specific tanginess to the dressing.
Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?
Yes, turkey bacon can be used as a leaner alternative, though the flavor and fat content will vary.
Is there a way to make this salad lower in sugar?
You can reduce the 1/4 cup of white sugar or use a granulated sugar substitute to lower the sugar content.
How long can I store leftovers in the refrigerator?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for 2-3 days, though the bacon may lose its crispness over time.
Do I need to peel the broccoli stems?
If you choose to use the stems, it is often best to peel the tough outer skin before chopping them into small pieces.
Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
Yes, common additions include diced red onions, shredded carrots, or even cauliflower.
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise?
You can substitute some or all of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a tangier, higher-protein dressing.
What is the best way to serve this salad?
It is best served chilled, making it an ideal side dish for picnics, potlucks, and barbecues.
How much fat is in one serving?
Each serving contains approximately 9g of fat.
Can I add nuts to the Ultimate Broccoli and Bacon Delight Salad?
Yes, sunflower seeds or sliced almonds are popular additions that complement the flavors and add extra crunch.
How many carbohydrates are in this recipe?
The salad contains about 8g of carbohydrates per serving.
Should I use a specific part of the green onions?
Typically, both the white and green parts of the green onions are chopped and used for flavor and color.
Is it okay to use pre-crumbled bacon from a package?
While fresh-fried bacon offers the best texture, high-quality store-bought bacon bits can be used for convenience.
How much protein does this salad provide?
Each serving provides approximately 5g of protein.
Can I use frozen broccoli florets?
Fresh broccoli is highly recommended. Frozen broccoli can become mushy when thawed and won't provide the necessary crunch.
What type of bowl should I use for mixing?
A large glass or stainless steel mixing bowl is ideal to ensure you have enough room to toss the ingredients without spilling.
Does the salad need to be covered while refrigerating?
Yes, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a tight-fitting lid to keep the salad fresh and prevent it from absorbing other fridge odors.
Can I double this recipe for a large crowd?
Absolutely, this recipe is very easy to double or triple for larger gatherings or holiday meals.