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Broccoli Bacon and Raisin Salad

Broccoli Bacon and Raisin Salad

Broccoli Bacon and Raisin Salad is a vibrant, crunchy, and flavorful salad combining fresh broccoli, crispy bacon, and sweet raisins with a tangy creamy dressing. Perfect as a quick side dish or light snack, this salad offers a delightful blend of textures and flavors, making it an ideal addition to any meal or potluck.

Ingredients

Scale

Salad Ingredients

  • 3 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped into bite-sized pieces
  • 6 slices crispy bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 1/2 cup raisins
  • 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
  • 1/4 cup sunflower seeds or slivered almonds

Dressing Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey or sugar
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prep the Broccoli: Start by washing fresh broccoli and chopping it into bite-sized florets. Keep the stems for additional crunch if you like, just slice them thinly. Set aside to drain well after rinsing to avoid watery salad.
  2. Cook the Bacon: Cook bacon strips in a skillet over medium heat until crispy and browned. Drain on paper towels, then crumble into small pieces to scatter throughout your salad.
  3. Mix the Dressing: In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust the sweetness or tanginess as needed for your preference.
  4. Combine the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, toss together the broccoli florets, cooked bacon crumbles, raisins, sliced red onions, and nuts. Pour the dressing over and stir well to coat everything evenly.
  5. Chill and Serve: For best results, refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld. Serve cold or at room temperature, and enjoy!

Notes

  • Use fresh broccoli for the best crispness; avoid pre-cut broccoli.
  • Cook bacon slowly over medium heat to render fat and achieve perfect crispiness.
  • Pat bacon and onions dry with paper towels to prevent soggy salad.
  • Chill salad before serving to enhance flavor blending and texture.
  • If dressing is too thick, thin with a little water or additional vinegar for easier mixing.
  • Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing is not recommended as it affects texture and flavor.
  • Serve with extra crispy bacon bits, whole raisins, or chopped parsley for garnish.

Nutrition

Keywords: broccoli bacon salad, raisin salad, crunchy salad, side dish, easy salad, gluten free, bacon salad