If you are craving a salad that brings together a symphony of flavors and textures, the Broccoli Salad with Cheddar, Cranberries, and Bacon Recipe is an absolute must-try. This vibrant dish combines the crunch of fresh broccoli, the tangy sweetness of dried cranberries, and the irresistible savory punch of crispy bacon, all perfectly balanced with sharp cheddar cheese and a creamy, tangy dressing. Whether you’re preparing a quick lunch, a side for your next barbecue, or a potluck favorite, this salad delivers freshness, color, and a delightful mix of tastes that everyone will adore.
Ingredients You’ll Need
It’s amazing how just a handful of simple ingredients can come together to create such a flavorful and visually appealing dish. Each ingredient plays an important role, adding contrasting textures and bold flavors to make this broccoli salad so memorable.
- 5-6 cups broccoli florets: The star of the salad, providing a fresh crunch and vibrant green color.
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese: Adds a rich, tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with the other ingredients.
- ⅔ cup dried cranberries: Brings a burst of sweetness and a chewy texture that livens up the salad.
- ½ cup crumbled bacon: Delivers a smoky, salty crunch that takes the salad to the next level.
- ½ cup salted sunflower seeds: Adds nutty flavor and an extra touch of crunchiness.
- ⅓ cup red onion: Provides a sharp, slightly spicy bite to complement the creamy dressing.
- ¾ cup mayonnaise: Forms the creamy base of the dressing, giving the salad its luscious texture.
- ¼ cup sour cream: Adds tanginess and smoothness to the dressing.
- 1 ½ Tablespoons white wine vinegar: Brightens the dressing with a subtle acidity.
- 3 Tablespoons sugar: Balances the tang and saltiness with a touch of sweetness.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering them.
- ¼ teaspoon pepper: Adds a gentle heat that rounds out the taste profiles.
How to Make Broccoli Salad with Cheddar, Cranberries, and Bacon Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Fresh Ingredients
Start by tossing the broccoli florets, sharp cheddar cheese, dried cranberries, crumbled bacon, salted sunflower seeds, and diced red onion together in a large bowl. This mix sets the foundation for a perfect balance of sweet, salty, creamy, and crunchy textures in your salad.
Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Dressing
Next, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, white wine vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper in a smaller bowl until you get a smooth, well-blended dressing that’s bursting with flavor. This dressing beautifully coats the ingredients without overpowering them, tying everything together harmoniously.
Step 3: Combine and Toss
Pour the creamy dressing over your broccoli mixture, then toss everything gently but thoroughly. Be sure every broccoli floret and bit of cheese and bacon gets coated with that luscious dressing—that’s what makes this dish so irresistibly tasty and refreshing.
Step 4: Chill Before Serving
For the best flavor, chill your broccoli salad in the refrigerator for at least one hour. This resting time allows the dressing to soak into the ingredients and for the flavors to meld beautifully, creating that signature taste that makes the Broccoli Salad with Cheddar, Cranberries, and Bacon Recipe such a crowd-pleaser.
How to Serve Broccoli Salad with Cheddar, Cranberries, and Bacon Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or green onions on top right before serving for a fresh pop of color and a mild onion flavor that enhances the salad’s natural brightness. A light dusting of freshly cracked black pepper also adds a subtle kick that complements the richness.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, barbecue ribs, or even a juicy roasted turkey. Its fresh crunch and sweet-savory notes offer a perfect contrast to smoky, spicy, or rich main dishes, making it an ideal accompaniment at any meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, layer this broccoli salad in a clear glass trifle bowl to showcase its vibrant colors or serve it in individual mason jars for a charming, portable presentation. You can also spoon it onto toasted baguette slices for a delightful appetizer setup that guests will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your Broccoli Salad with Cheddar, Cranberries, and Bacon Recipe, be sure to store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for up to 3 days, and the flavors continue to deepen, making it just as delicious—or even better—the next day.
Freezing
This salad is best enjoyed fresh and does not freeze well because the texture of the broccoli and dressing can change after thawing. For best results, prepare fresh batches as needed instead of freezing.
Reheating
Since this is a chilled, creamy salad, it’s best served cold and does not require reheating. Simply give it a quick stir before serving if it has been refrigerated to redistribute the dressing and flavors evenly.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
While fresh broccoli is ideal for this salad to maintain the perfect crunch, you can use thawed, well-drained frozen broccoli if that’s what you have on hand. Just be sure to pat it dry to avoid adding excess moisture to the salad.
Is there a substitute for bacon in this recipe?
If you prefer a vegetarian option, try substituting crispy roasted chickpeas or smoked tempeh for the bacon. These alternatives provide a nice texture and smoky flavor without using meat.
Can I make the dressing ahead of time?
Absolutely! Making the dressing a few hours ahead lets the flavors meld beautifully. Just whisk it again before tossing with the other ingredients to maintain that creamy consistency.
How can I reduce the sugar in the salad?
You can cut the sugar in half or use a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup if you want to lessen the sweetness. Adjust to taste until you find the perfect balance for your palate.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep lunches?
Yes! This Broccoli Salad with Cheddar, Cranberries, and Bacon Recipe holds up well for a few days and makes a refreshing, nutrient-packed lunch option that’s ready to grab on busy mornings.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a delightful salad that’s packed with flavor, texture, and color, do yourself a favor and try this Broccoli Salad with Cheddar, Cranberries, and Bacon Recipe. It’s simple, satisfying, and endlessly versatile—just the kind of dish that will quickly become a beloved favorite in your kitchen, just like it has in mine!
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Broccoli Salad with Cheddar, Cranberries, and Bacon Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
This refreshing Broccoli Salad combines crisp broccoli florets with sharp cheddar cheese, sweet dried cranberries, crunchy bacon bits, and salted sunflower seeds, all tossed in a creamy, tangy dressing made from mayo, sour cream, and white wine vinegar. Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or a healthy side, this salad is quick to prepare and best served chilled.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 5–6 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- ⅔ cup dried cranberries
- ½ cup crumbled bacon
- ½ cup salted sunflower seeds
- ⅓ cup diced red onion
Dressing Ingredients
- ¾ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 1 ½ tablespoons white wine vinegar
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, add the broccoli florets, sharp cheddar cheese, dried cranberries, crumbled bacon, salted sunflower seeds, and diced red onion. Mix these ingredients gently to combine them evenly.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, white wine vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Toss Salad with Dressing: Pour the prepared dressing over the broccoli mixture. Toss everything thoroughly to make sure all the salad ingredients are evenly coated with the creamy dressing.
- Chill the Salad: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least one hour. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld together and the salad to firm up, making it even more delicious when served.
Notes
- For best flavor, use fresh broccoli florets that are crisp and bright green.
- Feel free to substitute dried cranberries with raisins or chopped dried cherries.
- Bacon can be cooked and crumbled ahead of time for convenience.
- Adjust sugar quantity in the dressing to taste if you prefer it less sweet.
- This salad is best served chilled and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
