why make this recipe
Broccoli Raisin Salad is a delightful dish that combines crunchy, fresh broccoli with sweet raisins and savory bacon. It’s a great side dish for barbecues, picnics, or family dinners. This salad not only tastes good but also offers a mix of textures that everyone will enjoy. Plus, it’s a simple recipe that doesn’t require much time to prepare, making it perfect for busy days.
how to make Broccoli Raisin Salad
Ingredients:
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 3/4 cup raisins
- 5 slices bacon (cooked and crumbled)
- 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 3 tbsp white vinegar
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Directions:
- In a large bowl, toss together the broccoli florets, sunflower seeds, raisins, and crumbled bacon.
- In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sugar, white vinegar, and black pepper until well combined.
- Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture and stir well to combine everything evenly.
- Enjoy your salad! If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
how to serve Broccoli Raisin Salad
You can serve Broccoli Raisin Salad as a side dish with grilled meats, sandwiches, or even enjoy it on its own as a light lunch. It’s best to let it chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving, as the flavors will meld together beautifully.
how to store Broccoli Raisin Salad
To store leftovers, place the salad in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. It should be eaten within 3 to 5 days for the best taste and freshness. If the salad seems a bit dry after storage, feel free to add a little more mayonnaise before serving it again.
tips to make Broccoli Raisin Salad
- For a bit more crunch, try adding sliced almonds or walnuts.
- If you want it a little sweeter, you can increase the amount of sugar in the dressing.
- Make sure to use fresh broccoli florets for the best flavor.
- You can substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise for a lighter version.
variation
You can make Broccoli Raisin Salad with added fruits like diced apples or sliced grapes for a fruity twist. Some people also like to add shredded carrots for more color and sweetness.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours before serving. Just keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to enjoy it.
Q: Can I use frozen broccoli?
A: It’s best to use fresh broccoli for this recipe. Frozen broccoli can become mushy when thawed and may not provide the right texture.
Q: Is there a way to make this recipe vegan?
A: Yes! You can use a vegan mayonnaise and skip the bacon or use a plant-based bacon substitute to keep it vegan-friendly.
Broccoli Raisin Salad
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 4 cups broccoli florets Fresh, for best flavor
- 3/4 cup raisins
- 5 slices bacon (cooked and crumbled) For a savory touch
- 1/4 cup sunflower seeds For added crunch
Dressing Ingredients
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise Can substitute Greek yogurt for a lighter version
- 2 tbsp sugar Adjust to taste for sweetness
- 3 tbsp white vinegar
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large bowl, toss together the broccoli florets, sunflower seeds, raisins, and crumbled bacon.
- In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sugar, white vinegar, and black pepper until well combined.
- Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture and stir well to combine everything evenly.
- Refrigerate for about 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together.