Amish Broccoli Salad
Amish Broccoli Salad is a traditional dish made with raw broccoli, bacon, red onion, and a sweet-tangy creamy dressing. It’s crunchy, flavorful, and super easy to prepare. The combination of salty bacon, crisp veggies, and the creamy dressing makes it irresistible.
Time Overview:
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time (for bacon): 10 minutes
Chill Time (optional): 30 minutes
Total Time: ~25–45 minutes
Ingredients:
Salad Base:
5 cups fresh broccoli florets (chopped into bite-sized pieces)
1/2 red onion, thinly sliced or diced
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/3 cup raisins or dried cranberries
1/4 cup sunflower seeds or chopped walnuts (optional)
6 slices bacon, cooked crisp and crumbled
Creamy Dressing:
1 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons white vinegar or apple cider vinegar
3 tablespoons granulated sugar (or honey/maple syrup for natural version)
Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the Bacon:
Fry bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Drain on paper towels and crumble once cooled.
2. Prep the Veggies:
Wash and cut broccoli into small florets. Dice onion finely. Shred cheese if using block-style.
3.Make the design:
In a small bowl, whisk together mayo, vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth.
4. Combine Salad:
In a large bowl, mix broccoli, onion, raisins, cheese, and sunflower seeds.
Add dressing and toss until evenly coated.
Gently fold in bacon just before serving (to keep it crisp).
5. Chill (Optional):
Let salad sit in the fridge for 30 minutes to let flavors meld (highly recommended).
Tips & Notes:
For extra crunch: chill the salad before serving and don’t mix in bacon until the end.
Make it lighter: Use Greek yogurt or a 50/50 mayo-yogurt blend.
Broccoli too firm: Quickly blanch it (boil for 30 sec, then ice water) for a softer bite.
Make it vegetarian: Skip the bacon or use smoky tempeh or coconut bacon.
Frequently asked questions FAQ:
Q:What makes it ahead?
A: Yes! Make it 1 day in advance, but add bacon right before serving.
Q: Can I use frozen broccoli?
A: Not ideal — fresh is best for crunch. If using frozen, thaw and pat dry completely.
Q: What cheese is best?
A: Sharp cheddar adds bold flavor, but Swiss or Colby Jack also work great.
Nutrition Information
Calories: 250
Protein: 6g
Carbs: 12g
Sugars: 7g
Fiber: 2g
Fat: 20g
Sodium: ~300mg