Prepare to revolutionize your salad game with a mouthwatering combination that will make your taste buds dance! This Broccoli Raisin and Bacon Salad is not just another boring side dish – it's a culinary masterpiece that perfectly balances crisp broccoli, sweet raisins, and irresistible crispy bacon. Whether you're looking for a quick lunch, a crowd-pleasing potluck dish, or a unique side that will have everyone asking for the recipe, this salad is about to become your new obsession.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 6 strips of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/4 cup red onion, diced
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash the broccoli florets thoroughly under cold running water, then pat them dry with clean paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Cook bacon strips in a skillet over medium heat until crisp and golden brown, about 4-5 minutes per side. Transfer cooked bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease.
- Once bacon has cooled completely, crumble the strips into small, bite-sized pieces using your hands or a knife.
- Dice the red onion into small, uniform pieces, ensuring they are roughly the same size for even distribution in the salad.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise and apple cider vinegar. Whisk together until smooth and well incorporated.
- Add the broccoli florets, raisins, crumbled bacon, and diced red onion to the mayonnaise mixture.
- Gently toss all ingredients together, ensuring everything is evenly coated with the dressing.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, mixing carefully to distribute the seasoning.
- Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together before serving.
- Before serving, give the salad a quick stir and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve chilled as a side dish or light lunch.
Tips
- Broccoli Prep Matters: For the best texture, use fresh broccoli and cut florets into bite-sized pieces. Pat them completely dry to ensure the dressing clings perfectly.
- Bacon Brilliance: For extra flavor, use thick-cut bacon and cook it until it's perfectly crisp. Let it cool completely before crumbling to maintain that satisfying crunch.
- Flavor Enhancing Tricks: - For a tangy twist, try adding a teaspoon of Dijon mustard to the dressing - Toast the raisins lightly for a deeper, more caramelized flavor - Let the salad chill for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld
- Make-Ahead Magic: This salad actually tastes better after sitting for a few hours, making it perfect for meal prep or potluck events.
- Customization Options: - Swap mayo for Greek yogurt for a lighter version - Add sunflower seeds or sliced almonds for extra crunch - Use turkey bacon for a lighter alternativePro tip: Always add the bacon just before serving to maintain its crispy texture and prevent sogginess!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 7g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 20mg
