Amish Broccoli Salad

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Amish Broccoli Salad is a vibrant, creamy, and crunchy side dish that brings together fresh broccoli florets, crispy bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and a sweet-tangy dressing. Every bite delivers a balance of textures—from the crisp snap of raw broccoli to the savory crunch of bacon and the smooth richness of the homemade dressing.

This classic salad is a staple at potlucks, family gatherings, and backyard barbecues. Its simple ingredients come together quickly, yet the flavor tastes like it has been carefully crafted for hours. Whether served alongside grilled meats or enjoyed on its own, it’s a refreshing dish that always disappears fast.

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Why You’ll Love This Amish Broccoli Salad

This Amish Broccoli Salad stands out for its perfect balance of sweet, savory, and creamy flavors. It’s easy to prepare ahead of time, making it ideal for entertaining or weekly meal prep. The ingredients are simple and affordable, yet the final result feels special enough for holidays and celebrations. Plus, it requires no complicated cooking techniques—just fresh ingredients and a flavorful dressing tossed together in minutes.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use (Essential Tools and Equipment, and the Importance of Each Tool)

To prepare Amish Broccoli Salad efficiently, you’ll need a sharp chef’s knife for cutting the broccoli into even, bite-sized florets, which ensures consistent texture in every bite. A sturdy cutting board provides stability and safety while chopping. A large mixing bowl is essential for tossing all ingredients evenly without spilling. Use a small mixing bowl to whisk the dressing thoroughly so the sugar dissolves properly and the flavors blend smoothly. A whisk helps create a creamy, lump-free dressing, while a spatula or large spoon ensures everything is well coated. If cooking bacon fresh, a skillet is necessary for achieving crispy, golden pieces that add texture and depth to the salad.

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Preparation Tips

For the best Amish Broccoli Salad, make sure the broccoli is completely dry after washing to prevent the dressing from becoming watery. Cut florets into small, uniform pieces so they absorb the dressing evenly. Allow the salad to chill for at least an hour before serving; this resting time helps the flavors meld beautifully. If you prefer slightly softer broccoli, you can blanch it briefly and cool it immediately in ice water, though traditional versions use it raw for maximum crunch.

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Ingredients for this Amish Broccoli Salad

Fresh Produce

• 6 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 2 large heads), cut into small, bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup cauliflower florets, finely chopped (optional but traditional in many versions)
• 1/3 cup red onion, very finely diced

Protein & Dairy

• 8 slices bacon, cooked until crispy and crumbled
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded

Dressing

• 1 cup mayonnaise (full-fat for richest flavor; light may be substituted)
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar (adjust slightly to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Optional Add-Ins for Extra Texture & Flavor

• 1/3 cup sunflower seeds (adds nutty crunch)
• 1/3 cup raisins or dried cranberries (adds sweetness contrast)
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for color and freshness)

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Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli and Vegetables

Wash the broccoli thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt. Dry completely using a clean kitchen towel or salad spinner to prevent excess moisture from thinning the dressing. Trim away thick stems and cut the florets into small, uniform pieces. If using cauliflower, chop it into similar-sized pieces for even texture. Finely dice the red onion so it blends smoothly without overpowering each bite.

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Step 2: Cook and Crumble the Bacon

Place bacon strips in a cold skillet and turn the heat to medium. Cook slowly, turning occasionally, until the bacon becomes evenly crisp and golden brown. This method renders the fat gradually, creating better texture. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease. Once cooled, crumble into small bite-sized pieces. Set aside.

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Step 3: Shred the Cheese

For the best flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture, shred sharp cheddar cheese from a block rather than using pre-shredded varieties. Freshly shredded cheese blends more smoothly into the salad and avoids added anti-caking agents.

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Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Dressing

In a small mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Whisk thoroughly until smooth and creamy. Continue whisking until the sugar dissolves completely and the dressing appears silky. Taste and adjust sweetness or acidity as desired. The dressing should have a balanced sweet-tangy profile.

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Step 5: Combine the Salad Base

In a large mixing bowl, add the chopped broccoli, cauliflower (if using), diced red onion, shredded cheddar cheese, and optional sunflower seeds or dried fruit. Toss gently to distribute all ingredients evenly before adding the dressing.

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Step 6: Add Dressing and Toss Thoroughly

Pour the prepared dressing over the salad mixture. Using a large spoon or spatula, fold everything together carefully, ensuring each piece of broccoli is well coated. Take your time during this step to achieve even coverage without crushing the vegetables.

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Step 7: Add the Bacon

Sprinkle the crumbled bacon over the salad and gently fold it in. For extra crispness, you may reserve a small portion of bacon to sprinkle on top just before serving.

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Step 8: Chill for Best Flavor Development

Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or transfer the salad to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 1–2 hours before serving. This resting period allows the flavors to meld together and slightly tenderizes the broccoli while maintaining its crunch.

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Step 9: Final Toss and Serve

Before serving, give the salad a final gentle stir. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Garnish with additional shredded cheese, bacon bits, or fresh parsley for presentation. Serve chilled as a side dish for barbecues, picnics, potlucks, or family dinners.

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Notes

Amish Broccoli Salad is highly adaptable, which makes it a dependable choice for different occasions and dietary preferences. The sweetness level can be adjusted easily by reducing or increasing the sugar in the dressing. For a lighter version, Greek yogurt can replace part of the mayonnaise while still maintaining creaminess. If preparing for a large gathering, this salad doubles or triples effortlessly without changing the preparation method. For the best flavor, always allow adequate chilling time so the dressing fully penetrates the broccoli and other ingredients. Fresh, high-quality cheddar and properly crisped bacon significantly elevate the final result.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

One common mistake is not drying the broccoli thoroughly after washing, which can cause the dressing to become watery and diluted. Cutting the florets too large can also result in uneven coating and a less enjoyable texture. Overcooking the bacon may make it overly brittle and bitter, while undercooking leaves it chewy instead of crisp. Adding the bacon too early and letting it sit for many hours can reduce its crunch, so reserving some for garnish is helpful. Another issue is skipping the chilling time—this salad truly benefits from resting, as it allows the flavors to blend and develop fully.

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Storage Instructions

Store Amish Broccoli Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir before serving to redistribute the dressing, as slight separation may occur naturally. If making in advance for an event, consider storing the bacon separately and mixing it in shortly before serving to maintain crispness. This salad is not ideal for freezing, as the mayonnaise-based dressing may separate and the vegetables can lose their texture once thawed.

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Estimated Nutrition

Per serving (based on approximately 8 servings):

• Calories: 320–360 kcal
• Protein: 9–12g
• Carbohydrates: 18–22g
• Sugars: 12–15g
• Fat: 24–28g
• Saturated Fat: 8–10g
• Fiber: 2–3g
• Sodium: 450–550mg

Nutritional values may vary depending on ingredient brands and portion sizes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make Amish Broccoli Salad ahead of time?

Yes, it actually tastes better when made 1–2 hours ahead. Preparing it the night before is also fine; just stir well before serving.

2. Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Fresh broccoli is strongly recommended for the best crunch and texture. Frozen broccoli tends to become too soft once thawed.

3. How can I make this salad healthier?

You can substitute part of the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt, reduce the sugar slightly, and use turkey bacon for a lighter option.

4. Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, the standard ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Always double-check packaged items like bacon or mayonnaise to confirm.

5. What can I use instead of bacon?

For a vegetarian version, try smoked almonds, toasted pecans, or coconut bacon for a similar crunchy texture.

6. How long can it sit out at a picnic?

Because it contains mayonnaise, it should not sit at room temperature for more than 2 hours (or 1 hour in hot weather).

7. Can I reduce the sweetness of the dressing?

Absolutely. Decrease the sugar gradually and taste as you go until it reaches your preferred balance.

8. What main dishes pair well with Amish Broccoli Salad?

It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, barbecue ribs, burgers, pulled pork sandwiches, or roasted turkey.

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Conclusion

Amish Broccoli Salad delivers a satisfying mix of crunch, creaminess, sweetness, and savory depth in every forkful. Its straightforward preparation and crowd-pleasing flavor make it a reliable addition to casual dinners, festive gatherings, and summer barbecues alike. With simple ingredients and a short prep time, this salad proves that classic recipes remain popular for good reason.

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