Amish Broccoli Salad is a delicious and refreshing side dish that brings together crisp broccoli and cauliflower with a creamy, slightly sweet dressing. This salad is a staple at potlucks, family gatherings, and barbecues due to its perfect balance of flavors and textures. The crunchy vegetables, crispy bacon, and shredded cheddar cheese make it a crowd-pleaser.
Why Make This Recipe
Making Amish Broccoli Salad at home allows you to enjoy a fresh, homemade dish free of preservatives. It’s an excellent way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet while indulging in a creamy, flavorful salad. This dish is easy to prepare, requires minimal ingredients, and can be made ahead of time, making it a perfect addition to any meal.
How to Make Amish Broccoli Salad
This salad is incredibly simple to prepare. First, chop the broccoli and cauliflower into bite-sized pieces. Then, mix up a creamy dressing using mayonnaise, sour cream, sugar, and salt. Toss the dressing with the vegetables, then add crispy bacon and shredded cheese. Stir everything together, and your salad is ready to serve!
Ingredients
- 1 head broccoli, chopped
- 1 head cauliflower, chopped
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 pound bacon, fried and crumbled
- 1 cup Cheddar cheese, shredded
Directions
- In a large bowl, combine the chopped broccoli and cauliflower.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, sugar, and salt to create a creamy dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the vegetables and mix well to evenly coat them.
- Stir in the crumbled bacon and shredded cheese, reserving a small portion of both for garnish.
- Sprinkle the reserved bacon and cheese on top before serving.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to enjoy.
How to Serve Amish Broccoli Salad
This salad is best served chilled and makes an excellent side dish for grilled meats, sandwiches, or a hearty main course. It pairs well with barbecued dishes, roasted chicken, or even as a standalone lunch option. Serve it in a decorative bowl for an attractive presentation at potlucks and gatherings.
How to Store Amish Broccoli Salad
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Since this salad contains mayonnaise and sour cream, it should not be left out at room temperature for too long. Avoid freezing, as the creamy dressing may separate and lose its texture upon thawing.
Tips to Make Amish Broccoli Salad
- For a healthier version, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.
- If you prefer a sweeter salad, add a bit more sugar or a drizzle of honey.
- Use pre-chopped broccoli and cauliflower to save time.
- Add chopped nuts, such as almonds or walnuts, for extra crunch.
- Let the salad sit in the fridge for an hour before serving to enhance the flavors.
Variation
- Vegetarian Version: Skip the bacon and add sunflower seeds or roasted chickpeas for a crunchy texture.
- Lower-Carb Option: Reduce the sugar or use a sugar substitute like stevia.
- Extra Flavor: Mix in some diced red onion or dried cranberries for a touch of tanginess and color.
FAQs
How long does Amish Broccoli Salad last?
It lasts up to 3 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container.
Can I substitute an ingredient in Amish Broccoli Salad?
Yes! You can replace sour cream with Greek yogurt or swap bacon for turkey bacon.
What can I serve with Amish Broccoli Salad?
It pairs well with grilled meats, sandwiches, or as a side dish for a picnic or barbecue.
Enjoy making and serving this creamy, crunchy, and flavorful Amish Broccoli Salad!
Amish Broccoli Salad
Equipment
- Large Bowl
- Whisk
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 head Broccoli, chopped
- 1 head Cauliflower, chopped
Dressing
- 1 cup Mayonnaise
- 1 cup Sour cream
- 1/2 cup Sugar
- 1/2 tsp Salt
Add-ins
- 1/2 pound Bacon, fried and crumbled
- 1 cup Cheddar cheese, shredded
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the chopped broccoli and cauliflower.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, sugar, and salt to create a creamy dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the vegetables and mix well to evenly coat them.
- Stir in the crumbled bacon and shredded cheese, reserving a small portion of both for garnish.
- Sprinkle the reserved bacon and cheese on top before serving.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to enjoy.