This Amish Broccoli Salad is a creamy and crunchy delight, combining fresh broccoli, cauliflower, crispy bacon, and shredded Cheddar cheese in a tangy dressing. It’s easy to prepare and makes for a perfect side dish at any gathering or meal. The salad is rich in flavor, thanks to the combination of mayonnaise, sour cream, and a hint of sweetness from sugar. Serve it chilled for the best taste, and watch as it quickly becomes a favorite at the table. Whether you’re hosting a BBQ or looking for a simple side, this Amish Broccoli Salad is sure to please.
This Amish Broccoli Salad is a deliciously creamy and crunchy side dish that’s perfect for any gathering. The combination of fresh broccoli, cauliflower, crispy bacon, and shredded Cheddar cheese creates a flavorful salad that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.
INGREDIENTS
- Broccoli: 1 head, chopped into bite-sized pieces for a fresh and crunchy base.
- Cauliflower: 1 head, chopped, adds a mild flavor and crunchy texture that complements the broccoli.
- Mayonnaise: 1 cup, forms the creamy base of the dressing, adding richness to the salad.
- Sour Cream: 1 cup, combined with mayonnaise to create a tangy and smooth dressing.
- Sugar (or Substitute): 1/2 cup, adds a touch of sweetness to balance the savory flavors.
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon, enhances the overall flavor of the salad.
- Bacon: 1/2 pound, fried and crumbled, adds a salty, crispy element to the salad.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: 1 cup, provides a rich, cheesy flavor that pairs perfectly with the other ingredients.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- Begin by chopping the broccoli and cauliflower into bite-sized pieces. Place them in a large bowl, creating the base of your salad.
- Step 2:
- In a separate bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, sugar, and salt. Stir well until the dressing is smooth and creamy. This mixture will add a rich, tangy flavor to the salad.
- Step 3:
- Pour the creamy dressing over the broccoli and cauliflower. Stir until all the vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing, ensuring every bite is full of flavor.
- Step 4:
- Add the crumbled bacon and shredded Cheddar cheese to the salad, stirring gently to mix them in. Reserve a small amount of bacon and cheese to sprinkle on top of the salad just before serving for an extra burst of flavor and visual appeal.
- Step 5:
- Serve the salad immediately, or refrigerate it until you’re ready to enjoy. The flavors will meld together as it chills, making it even more delicious.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serve this Amish Broccoli Salad chilled, right out of the refrigerator, for the best flavor and texture.
- This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, roasted chicken, or as a side dish for your favorite BBQ spread.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir well before serving again to ensure the dressing is evenly distributed.
- For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a handful of chopped red onion or sunflower seeds to the salad before serving.
Helpful Notes
- If you prefer a lower-calorie version, substitute the mayonnaise and sour cream with Greek yogurt for a healthier twist.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon or replace it with a vegetarian bacon substitute.
- Quotes: "This Amish Broccoli Salad is the perfect blend of creamy, crunchy, and savory—an easy crowd-pleaser for any occasion!"
Tips from well-known chefs
- Chef Sarah suggests adding a splash of apple cider vinegar to the dressing for a tangy kick that complements the sweetness.
- Chef James recommends using freshly grated Cheddar cheese for a more robust flavor compared to pre-shredded varieties.
- Chef Emma advises letting the salad chill for at least an hour before serving to allow the flavors to fully develop.