Amish Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing and Bacon

If you’re searching for a fresh, crunchy, and delightful side dish that never fails to impress, Amish Broccoli Salad is the answer. This easy, healthy dish combines tender broccoli florets, crunchy bacon, and a creamy dressing into a vibrant medley bursting with texture and flavor. Perfect for potlucks, family dinners, or simple weeknight meals, Amish Broccoli Salad will quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Nostalgic Comfort: This salad brings a beloved Amish tradition right to your table, full of wholesome ingredients and satisfying flavors.
• Crunch and Creaminess: The perfect balance of crisp broccoli and smokey bacon mixed with a luscious dressing makes every bite irresistible.
• Nutritious and Fresh: Loaded with vitamins from fresh broccoli and protein from bacon, this salad offers a wholesome choice for any occasion.
• Quick and Simple: You can whip this dish up in under 20 minutes, making it ideal for busy days or last-minute gatherings.
• Versatile Crowd-Pleaser: It pairs beautifully with a range of mains, making it a go-to side for barbecues, holiday meals, and everyday dinners.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Amish Broccoli Salad lies in its simple ingredients, each playing a key role in flavor, texture, and color. From the bright green broccoli to the crispy bacon and sweet burst of raisins, these pantry staples come together effortlessly to create that signature taste everyone loves.

• Fresh Broccoli Florets: Use crisp, raw broccoli cut into bite-sized pieces to provide the main fresh crunch.
• Cooked Bacon: Adds a smoky, savory crunch that contrasts perfectly with the creamy dressing.
• Red Onion: Thinly sliced to inject a mild, sharp flavor without overpowering the salad.
• Raisins: Bring a subtle sweetness and chewy texture for a delightful twist.
• Sunflower Seeds: Optional but recommended for an additional nutty crunch and wholesome goodness.
• Mayonnaise: The creamy base that holds everything together with a rich, smooth finish.
• Sour Cream: Adds a subtle tang that balances the sweetness and richness.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: Provides a light acidity to brighten the flavors.
• Sugar: Just a touch to enhance the natural sweetness of the raisins and balance the vinegar.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing all of the flavors to life.

Variations for Amish Broccoli Salad

This Amish Broccoli Salad recipe is wonderfully adaptable, so feel free to tailor it based on what you have on hand or dietary preferences. It’s simple to swap or add ingredients while still keeping that classic flavor profile intact.

• Swap Bacon for Turkey Bacon: Use lean turkey bacon for a lower-fat version without sacrificing crunch and flavor.
• Make It Vegan: Replace mayo and sour cream with plant-based alternatives and omit bacon or add smoked tempeh.
• Add Cheese: Toss in some shredded cheddar or Parmesan to elevate richness and depth.
• Extra Crunch: Incorporate chopped nuts like almonds or pecans for more texture.
• Fruit Boost: Try dried cranberries or chopped apples instead of raisins for a different twist on sweetness.

How to Make Amish Broccoli Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli

Wash fresh broccoli thoroughly and cut it into bite-sized florets, making sure to discard tough stems. Pat the pieces dry to avoid a soggy salad.

Step 2: Cook and Crumble Bacon

Cook your bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crisp. Drain excess fat on paper towels, then crumble the bacon into small pieces ready to mix into the salad.

Step 3: Slice the Red Onion

Slice a small red onion thinly to add a mild pungency that complements the other flavors without overwhelming them.

Step 4: Mix the Dressing

In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth and well blended to create that creamy, tangy dressing.

Step 5: Combine All Ingredients

In a large bowl, toss broccoli florets, cooked bacon, sliced onion, raisins, and sunflower seeds (if using). Pour the dressing over the top and stir gently to coat everything evenly.

Step 6: Chill and Serve

Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld beautifully. Serve cold and enjoy the fresh, contrasting textures.

Pro Tips for Making Amish Broccoli Salad

• Use Fresh Broccoli: Look for bright green crowns with firm stems for the best texture and flavor.
• Drain Dressing Well: Avoid watery salad by making sure the dressing isn’t too runny before tossing.
• Chill Before Serving: Refrigeration helps the flavors mingle and improves texture.
• Prepare Ahead: Make the salad a few hours in advance, but add bacon last to keep it crispy.
• Adjust Sweetness: Taste the dressing before mixing; add more sugar or vinegar to balance according to preference.

How to Serve Amish Broccoli Salad

Garnishes

Top your Amish Broccoli Salad with freshly chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color and a fresh herbal note that brightens the whole dish.

Side Dishes

This salad makes a fantastic healthful side to grilled chicken, barbecue ribs, or even a hearty sandwich, adding freshness and crunch that contrast perfectly with rich mains.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the salad in a hollowed-out bread bowl for a rustic look, or portion it into individual mason jars for a charming picnic or party presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Amish Broccoli Salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The salad tastes great chilled, but crispiness diminishes over time.

Freezing

This salad is best enjoyed fresh and does not freeze well due to the mayo-based dressing and fresh ingredients, which can separate or wilt upon thawing.

Reheating

Because Amish Broccoli Salad is traditionally served cold, reheating is not recommended. Enjoy it straight from the fridge for the best texture and flavor experience.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli for Amish Broccoli Salad?

Fresh broccoli is recommended for the best texture and crunch; frozen broccoli tends to become too soft and watery when thawed.

Is there a dairy-free version of Amish Broccoli Salad?

Yes, using vegan mayonnaise and sour cream substitutes allows you to keep the creamy texture without dairy, and you can skip or replace bacon with plant-based alternatives.

How long does Amish Broccoli Salad keep in the fridge?

Properly stored, it stays fresh for about three days, but the salad is best eaten within the first day for maximum crunch and flavor.

What can I substitute for raisins?

Dried cranberries, chopped dried apricots, or even fresh apple chunks can provide a sweet contrast instead of raisins.

Can I prepare the salad a day ahead?

Yes, prepare the salad and dressing the day before, but add the bacon just before serving to keep it crunchy.

Final Thoughts

Amish Broccoli Salad is one of those recipes that feels like a warm hug wrapped in fresh, crunchy, and creamy goodness. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this flavorful, easy-to-make salad will become a beloved classic in your kitchen. Give it a try and watch it disappear fast from the serving bowl!

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