If you’re craving a salad that perfectly balances crisp textures, tangy flavors, and a bit of savory indulgence, you’re in for a treat with this Amish Broccoli Salad Recipe. Loaded with fresh broccoli florets, sharp cheddar, crunchy bacon, and a creamy, slightly sweet dressing, this salad brings together familiar ingredients in a way that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly vibrant. It’s easy to prepare, wonderfully satisfying, and guaranteed to become a beloved side dish or even a light meal on its own.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Amish Broccoli Salad Recipe lies in its simple ingredients, each playing a crucial role in creating that perfect harmony of taste and texture. From the crunch of fresh broccoli to the rich pop of cheddar and bacon, and the subtle sweetness in the dressing, these elements combine effortlessly for a crowd-pleasing dish.
- 6 cups broccoli florets: Fresh and crisp, broccoli is the hearty base that carries all other flavors beautifully.
- 8 slices thick-cut bacon, cooked and crumbled: Adds smoky, crispy goodness that contrasts delightfully with the fresh vegetables.
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Provides a creamy, tangy note that enriches every bite.
- 1/3 cup finely chopped red onion: Offers a mild sharpness and a splash of color.
- 1/4 cup sunflower seeds (optional): Contribute an extra nutty crunch, adding depth to the texture.
- 1 cup mayonnaise: The creamy base for the dressing that holds the salad together.
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar: Gives a subtle tang to brighten the dressing and keep things lively.
- 2 tablespoons sugar: Balances the vinegar with just a hint of sweetness for a perfectly rounded flavor.
How to Make Amish Broccoli Salad Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Broccoli
Start by washing your broccoli thoroughly, then chop it into small, bite-sized florets. Patting them dry is essential so your salad doesn’t get soggy, keeping that wonderful crunch you’re after.
Step 2: Cook and Crumble the Bacon
Cook the thick-cut bacon until perfectly crispy, then let it cool before crumbling. This step ensures you get that irresistible smoky crunch without sogginess when mixed with the salad.
Step 3: Whisk the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and sugar until smooth and creamy. This tangy-sweet dressing brings all your ingredients together, coating them evenly without overpowering the natural flavors.
Step 4: Combine Salad Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, toss the broccoli with the finely chopped red onion, sunflower seeds, and shredded sharp cheddar. This mix already looks vibrant and inviting, setting the stage for that perfect salad.
Step 5: Dress the Salad
Pour your homemade dressing over the broccoli mixture and toss thoroughly, ensuring each piece is lightly coated with the creamy goodness.
Step 6: Add the Bacon Last
Fold in the crispy bacon just before serving to keep its delightful crunch intact, adding a savory punch to every bite.
Step 7: Chill Before Serving
Pop the salad into the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Chilling lets all the flavors marry and the dressing settle in, making your Amish Broccoli Salad Recipe even more delicious.
How to Serve Amish Broccoli Salad Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Amish Broccoli Salad Recipe, consider topping it with a sprinkle of extra sunflower seeds for crunch, a dash of freshly cracked black pepper to enhance the flavors, or even a handful of diced fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs beautifully with a wide range of meals. Think grilled chicken, BBQ ribs, or even a simple grilled cheese sandwich. Its creamy crunch adds a refreshing counterpoint to heartier mains, making it a versatile companion for backyard cookouts, potlucks, and family dinners alike.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this salad in individual glass jars or pretty bowls to showcase the colorful ingredients. For gatherings, you could also offer it as a build-your-own salad bar option with toppings like extra cheese, nuts, or diced apples, letting everyone customize their bowl to their liking.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Amish Broccoli Salad Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To keep that bacon crispy, it’s best to store it separately and add it fresh before serving again.
Freezing
This salad is not ideal for freezing due to the fresh broccoli and creamy dressing, which can separate and become watery when thawed. It’s better enjoyed fresh for the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Since Amish Broccoli Salad Recipe is served cold, reheating is not necessary. If you prefer it slightly warmer, allow it to come to room temperature, but keep in mind it tastes best chilled and crisp.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?
While fresh broccoli is preferred for its crunch and texture, you can use frozen broccoli if you thaw it completely and drain excess moisture thoroughly. Just remember that frozen broccoli might be softer, so your salad may not have quite the same crispness.
Is there a substitute for bacon in this salad?
If you want a vegetarian or lighter option, you can replace bacon with toasted nuts like almonds or pecans to add crunch, or even crispy fried shallots for a touch of savory flavor.
Can I make this salad vegan?
To make a vegan Amish Broccoli Salad Recipe, swap out the mayonnaise for a vegan mayo and omit the bacon or substitute with plant-based bacon alternatives. Use nutritional yeast or a vegan cheese for that cheesy flavor boost.
How long should I chill the salad before serving?
Chilling the salad for at least 30 minutes is ideal to allow the flavors to meld and the dressing to fully coat the ingredients. Longer chilling, up to a few hours, can deepen the flavors, but avoid chilling for more than a day to keep the broccoli crisp.
Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
Absolutely! Ingredients like diced bell peppers, shredded carrots, or cherry tomatoes can be wonderful additions, adding even more color and crunch without overpowering the classic flavor profile of the Amish Broccoli Salad Recipe.
Final Thoughts
This Amish Broccoli Salad Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate — easy to make, endlessly satisfying, and full of nostalgic comfort. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or enjoying it as a quick side for dinner, it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Give it a try and watch it quickly become the salad everyone asks for again and again!
Print
Amish Broccoli Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A classic Amish Broccoli Salad that combines fresh broccoli florets with crispy bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and a tangy, sweet dressing. This crunchy and flavorful salad is perfect for potlucks, picnics, or as a refreshing side dish any time of year.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 6 cups broccoli florets
- 8 slices thick-cut bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/3 cup finely chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup sunflower seeds (optional)
Dressing Ingredients
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sugar
Instructions
- Prepare Broccoli: Wash and chop the broccoli into small florets and pat them dry thoroughly to ensure the dressing sticks well.
- Cook Bacon: Cook the thick-cut bacon slices in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, then remove and crumble once cooled.
- Make Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and sugar until smooth and well combined.
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the chopped broccoli, finely chopped red onion, sunflower seeds (if using), and shredded cheddar cheese.
- Add Dressing: Pour the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients and toss thoroughly until everything is evenly coated with the dressing.
- Add Bacon: Gently fold in the crumbled bacon just before serving to maintain its crispiness.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld and serve cold for best taste.
Notes
- Ensure broccoli is completely dry before mixing with dressing to prevent sogginess.
- Sunflower seeds are optional but add a nice crunch and nutrition.
- You can make this salad a few hours ahead for enhanced flavor.
- For a lighter dressing, substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
- Keep bacon separate until serving to keep it crispy.
