Delicious Amish Broccoli Salad

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If you’re craving a crisp, creamy, and flavor-packed side dish that steals the show at any gathering, the Amish Broccoli Salad is a must-try. This salad brings together crunchy broccoli and cauliflower florets, savory bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and sweet red onion, all tossed in a tangy homemade dressing. The contrast of textures and flavors in every bite makes this salad irresistibly satisfying. It’s the perfect harmony of fresh veggies and rich, comforting ingredients.

Popular in potlucks and family dinners, this dish has become a beloved staple for good reason. Not only is it vibrant and beautiful on the table, but it also offers a delightful mix of sweet, salty, and creamy elements. Whether you’re preparing for a picnic, a holiday meal, or just want to add something exciting to your weekday menu, this Amish Broccoli Salad delivers bold taste with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Amish Broccoli Salad

• It’s quick to make with no cooking required.
• A perfect balance of creamy, savory, and crunchy.
• Great for meal prep, potlucks, BBQs, and picnics.
• Customizable to suit dietary needs or flavor preferences.
• Kid-friendly and a clever way to serve more vegetables.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before you begin, having the right tools on hand can make the process smoother and faster. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Large Mixing Bowl: Essential for combining all the ingredients evenly.
• Sharp Knife & Cutting Board: For chopping the broccoli, cauliflower, and red onion precisely.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accuracy matters, especially for the dressing ingredients.
• Mixing Spoon or Spatula: To gently fold everything together without breaking the vegetables.
• Small Bowl for Dressing: Helps mix the creamy dressing separately for a consistent flavor.

Each of these tools plays a role in maintaining the salad’s crunchy texture and ensuring every bite is well-coated with that delicious dressing.

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Preparation Tips

Start by choosing the freshest broccoli and cauliflower heads you can find—they should be firm and vibrant. Chop them into bite-sized pieces, making sure not to over-trim the florets to maintain a pleasant crunch. Use pre-cooked crispy bacon or cook your own and crumble it finely for even distribution. The red onion should be finely diced so it complements the salad without overpowering it. When preparing the dressing, whisk until it’s smooth and creamy to coat the vegetables evenly. For best flavor, let the salad sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving—this allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

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Ingredients for this Amish Broccoli Salad

• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (bite-sized)
• 3 cups fresh cauliflower florets
• 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Optional Add-ins:

• 1/4 cup sunflower seeds or sliced almonds (for extra crunch)
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries or raisins (for a touch of sweetness)
• Greek yogurt (replace half the mayo for a lighter version)

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Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Start by washing the broccoli and cauliflower thoroughly. Pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Cut both into small, bite-sized florets, discarding thick stems. Finely dice the red onion and set all chopped vegetables aside in a large mixing bowl.

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Step 2: Cook and Crumble the Bacon

Cook the bacon strips in a skillet over medium heat until they are crisp and golden brown. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess grease. Once cooled, crumble or chop the bacon into small pieces and set aside.

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Step 3: Make the Creamy Dressing

In a small bowl, combine 1 cup of mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar, and 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar. Whisk until the mixture is smooth, creamy, and well-blended. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

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Step 4: Assemble the Salad

In the large mixing bowl with your vegetables, add the shredded cheddar cheese and most of the crumbled bacon (save a bit for topping). Pour the dressing over the mixture and gently fold everything together until well coated. Be careful not to overmix to preserve the crunch of the veggies.

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Step 5: Chill Before Serving

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to meld and the vegetables to soak up some of the creamy dressing. Just before serving, sprinkle the remaining bacon on top for a crispy finish.

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Step 6 (Optional): Customize the Flavor

If you enjoy a little extra texture or sweetness, fold in sunflower seeds, sliced almonds, or dried cranberries. For a healthier twist, swap half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt without losing the creamy consistency. Taste test again before serving.

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Notes

This Amish Broccoli Salad tastes best when served chilled, after resting in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps all the flavors come together beautifully. If preparing ahead for a party or event, you can make it a day in advance. Just hold off on adding the bacon until just before serving to keep it crispy. The dressing may thicken slightly after chilling, so feel free to stir in a teaspoon of water or vinegar before serving to loosen it up, if needed.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Over-chopping the vegetables: Cutting the broccoli or cauliflower too small will cause them to become soggy faster and lose their crunch.
• Adding bacon too early: If added while the salad is still warm or too early, bacon will lose its crispness.
• Skipping the chill time: Serving the salad immediately may leave it tasting flat; resting time is essential for flavor development.
• Using too much sugar: While sweetness balances the tang, overdoing it can overpower the dish. Stick to the recommended amount and adjust to taste if necessary.
• Not drying the vegetables: Excess water from washing can make the dressing watery and dilute its flavor.

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Storage Instructions

Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. For best results, store the bacon separately and add it right before serving to maintain its texture. Avoid freezing this salad, as the creamy dressing and fresh vegetables don’t thaw well.

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Estimated Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup (approximate)

• Calories: 310
• Total Fat: 26g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 16g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 30mg
• Sodium: 400mg
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 5g
• Protein: 8g

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long does Amish Broccoli Salad last in the fridge?

It stays fresh for up to 3 days if stored properly in an airtight container.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance. Just add the bacon before serving to maintain its crunch.

Can I substitute the mayo with something healthier?

Yes, you can use Greek yogurt or a half-and-half blend of mayo and Greek yogurt for a lighter version.

Is this salad keto-friendly?

It can be! Just reduce or skip the sugar and opt for a sugar-free sweetener if needed.

Can I use frozen broccoli or cauliflower?

It’s not recommended, as frozen veggies tend to be too soft for this crisp salad.

What type of cheese works best?

Sharp cheddar provides a great flavor contrast, but you can also use Colby Jack or even smoked gouda.

What can I serve this salad with?

It pairs well with grilled meats, fried chicken, or sandwiches. It also works as a stand-alone lunch dish.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Absolutely. Simply omit the bacon or use a plant-based bacon alternative for a meatless version.

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Conclusion

Amish Broccoli Salad is a crowd-pleasing, colorful dish that’s as versatile as it is delicious. With its crunchy veggies, savory bacon, and creamy dressing, it brings a burst of flavor to any table. Whether you’re planning a quick weekday side or prepping for a gathering, this salad delivers a dependable, delightful bite every time. Plus, it’s easily customizable to suit your tastes and dietary needs. Once you try it, don’t be surprised if it becomes a staple in your kitchen.

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