If you’re on the hunt for a showstopper salad that’s crisp, colorful, and downright addictive, look no further than the Amish Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing and Bacon. This dish brings together crunchy broccoli, savory bacon, and a tangy-sweet dressing, all tossed with pops of chewy fruit and nutty seeds. Whether you’re prepping for a summer cookout, a family dinner, or just craving a hearty, satisfying salad, this one checks all the boxes—and you won’t believe how quickly it disappears from the bowl!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Amish Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing and Bacon comes together with staple ingredients—but don’t let their simplicity fool you! Each one plays its part, creating layers of bright flavor, texture, and irresistible crunch that makes this salad a standout on any table.
- Fresh Broccoli Florets (5 cups): Go for firm, vibrant green broccoli and cut it into bite-sized pieces for ultimate crunch and color.
- Red Onion (½ cup, finely chopped): Adds just the right amount of sharpness and a pop of purple for visual appeal.
- Raisins or Dried Cranberries (½ cup): These chewy little gems bring sweet-tart flavor and a delightful contrast to the freshness of the veggies.
- Sunflower Seeds (½ cup): Lend a nutty crunch and a hint of saltiness that plays off the other flavors beautifully.
- Bacon (8 slices, cooked crisp and crumbled): Smoky, savory, and just the right touch of indulgence—don’t skip it!
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese (1 cup): Creamy, melty cheese adds richness and ties everything together.
- Mayonnaise (1 cup): The creamy base for the dressing; feel free to use light mayo or sub in some Greek yogurt if you’d like.
- Apple Cider Vinegar (2 tablespoons): This brings a gentle tang and brightness, keeping the dressing lively.
- Granulated Sugar (3 tablespoons): Balances out the vinegar’s acidity, giving the dressing that signature sweet-and-tangy Amish taste.
- Salt (½ teaspoon): Keeps all the flavors in harmony.
- Black Pepper (¼ teaspoon): Adds just enough warmth to round out the dressing.
How to Make Amish Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing and Bacon
Step 1: Chop and Prep Your Ingredients
Start by washing your broccoli thoroughly and cutting it into small, bite-sized florets. Chop the red onion finely for mild heat and set out the rest of your mix-ins—this salad moves quickly once you start tossing!
Step 2: Crisp and Crumble the Bacon
While you prep the veggies, cook your bacon until golden and crispy (stovetop or in the oven both work great). Let it drain on paper towels, then crumble or chop it into bits—these will add rich, smoky bursts throughout your Amish Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing and Bacon.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Homemade Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, granulated sugar, salt, and pepper. The mixture should be smooth, glossy, and taste irresistibly sweet-tangy. If you’re lightening things up, swap in half Greek yogurt—but keep the rest as written for classic Amish flavor.
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
In your largest mixing bowl, combine the broccoli florets, red onion, raisins or cranberries, sunflower seeds, crispy bacon, and shredded cheddar cheese. Drizzle the dressing over top and toss thoroughly to coat every last nub of broccoli and mix-in—don’t hold back, everything should be glossy.
Step 5: Chill for Best Flavor
Cover the salad tightly and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This waiting period lets those bold flavors meld together, the broccoli soften just slightly, and the dressing soak into every bite. Trust me, it’s worth the anticipation for the best Amish Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing and Bacon experience!
Step 6: Toss and Serve
Just before serving, give everything a final gentle toss—this redistributes the dressing and freshens the salad. Get ready, because if your household is anything like mine, there won’t be leftovers for long!
How to Serve Amish Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing and Bacon
Garnishes
This salad shines with just a few simple finishing touches. Try sprinkling a handful of extra sunflower seeds or a pinch of shredded cheese on top for added crunch and color. A little fresh cracked black pepper also gives a gourmet touch just before serving.
Side Dishes
Amish Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing and Bacon makes a knockout side for classic American fare like grilled chicken, pulled pork, or roasted potatoes. It also holds its own alongside barbecue, picnic spreads, or even as part of a big brunch buffet.
Creative Ways to Present
For something extra-special, serve this salad layered in a glass trifle bowl to show off its colorful layers. Or, scoop it into lettuce cups or onto crostini for appetizer-style bites at parties or potlucks. No matter how you style it, its vibrant look always gets attention!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Amish Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing and Bacon keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 2 days. Store it in an airtight container; the flavors only get better as they mingle, though the broccoli will soften over time. Just give it a good toss before serving again for best texture.
Freezing
This isn’t a salad that loves the freezer—mayonnaise-based dressings and raw veggies tend to weep and lose texture after thawing. For freshest results, make and enjoy it within a day or two of assembly.
Reheating
No reheating required (or recommended)! Amish Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing and Bacon is meant to be served cold or at cool room temperature for maximum crunch and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use a different dried fruit instead of raisins or cranberries?
Absolutely! Chopped dried apricots, cherries, or even dates work well. Just keep the pieces small to balance the salad’s texture and flavor.
Is there a lighter version of this dressing?
Definitely—swap out half the mayo for plain Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangier dressing. You’ll still get plenty of creaminess without sacrificing classic flavor.
Can I make Amish Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing and Bacon the night before?
Yes! This salad is actually even better the next day, as the flavors get a chance to meld. Just keep it covered in the fridge and give it a gentle toss before serving.
What if I don’t eat pork?
Turkey bacon or even plant-based bacon substitutes both work beautifully. Or, skip the bacon and add a little smoked paprika to the dressing for that smoky essence.
Will this salad get soggy if it sits too long?
It will soften slightly after a day, but that’s part of its charm. For the crispiest bite, assemble the salad closer to serving time, but don’t worry if you have leftovers—they’ll still taste fantastic!
Final Thoughts
Once you’ve had a big forkful of this Amish Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing and Bacon, there’s no turning back—it’s destined to become a new favorite in your rotation! Whether you bring it to a potluck or sneak second helpings at home, don’t be surprised if friends and family ask for the recipe. Give it a try and fall in love with this irresistible, flavor-packed salad!
Print
Amish Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing and Bacon Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes (for bacon)
- Total Time: 25 minutes (plus chilling time)
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Amish Broccoli Salad features a delightful mix of fresh broccoli, red onion, raisins or cranberries, sunflower seeds, bacon, and cheddar cheese, coated in a creamy dressing. Perfect for picnics and potlucks!
Ingredients
Fresh Broccoli Salad:
- 5 cups fresh broccoli florets
- ½ cup red onion, finely chopped
- ½ cup raisins or dried cranberries
- ½ cup sunflower seeds
- 8 slices bacon, cooked crisp and crumbled
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Creamy Dressing:
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare Salad: Combine broccoli, onion, raisins, sunflower seeds, bacon, and cheddar in a bowl.
- Make Dressing: Whisk mayo, vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper in a separate bowl.
- Combine: Pour dressing over salad, toss to coat. Chill for at least 1 hour.
- Serve: Toss before serving.
Notes
- This salad can be made a day ahead for convenience.
- For a lighter option, substitute Greek yogurt for half the mayonnaise.
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *