Amish Broccoli Salad is a crisp, creamy, and slightly sweet dish that combines fresh broccoli, crunchy bacon, red onions, and a tangy dressing. It’s a versatile side dish that works well for potlucks, BBQs, and family gatherings. The combination of sweet and savory flavors, along with the creamy texture, makes it a crowd-pleaser.
Amish Broccoli Salad
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1/2 cup red onion finely chopped
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon crumbled
- 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
- 1/4 cup raisins or dried cranberries
For the Dressing:
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons white vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Chop the broccoli into bite-sized pieces. Finely chop the red onion.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Combine the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine broccoli, red onion, cheddar cheese, bacon, sunflower seeds, and raisins. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until evenly coated.
- Chill and Serve: Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the flavors blend. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Why You Will Love Amish Broccoli Salad
Amish Broccoli Salad is a perfect blend of crunchy, creamy, and savory flavors that will quickly become a favorite at any gathering. Its combination of fresh broccoli florets, crispy bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and sweet red onions creates a delicious contrast of textures and tastes. The creamy dressing, made from mayonnaise, sugar, and vinegar, adds a tangy sweetness that balances the saltiness of the bacon and the sharpness of the cheese.
One of the best things about Amish Broccoli Salad is how easy it is to prepare. You only need a handful of simple ingredients, and there’s no cooking involved—just chop, mix, and chill. It’s a great make-ahead option since the flavors deepen and improve after a few hours in the fridge.
This salad is also highly versatile. You can add sunflower seeds for extra crunch or dried cranberries for a touch of sweetness. It’s naturally low in carbs, making it a great option for keto-friendly diets. Plus, it pairs well with grilled meats, sandwiches, or as part of a picnic or potluck spread.
With its perfect balance of flavors and easy prep, Amish Broccoli Salad is sure to become a go-to side dish!
Amish Broccoli Salad – Tips and Serving Tricks
Here are some expert tips and serving tricks to make your Amish Broccoli Salad perfect every time:
Tips for Making the Best Amish Broccoli Salad
1. Use Fresh, Crisp Broccoli
- The key to a great broccoli salad is using fresh, crisp broccoli. Avoid broccoli that looks limp or has yellowing florets.
- For extra crispness, you can blanch the broccoli in boiling water for 30–60 seconds and immediately transfer it to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. This helps retain its vibrant green color and improves texture.
2. Cut Ingredients Evenly
- Cut the broccoli into small, bite-sized pieces to make it easy to eat and mix.
- Thinly slice the red onions and chop the bacon finely so that every bite has a balanced mix of flavors.
- If adding nuts or seeds (like sunflower seeds or almonds), keep them uniform in size for even distribution.
3. Make a Balanced Dressing
The dressing is what brings the salad together. For a classic Amish-style dressing, use:
- Mayonnaise – For creaminess and richness.
- Sugar – Adds sweetness to balance the tanginess.
- Apple cider vinegar – Adds a bright, tangy flavor.
- Salt and pepper – For seasoning.
Pro Tip: Let the dressing sit for about 10 minutes after mixing to allow the sugar to dissolve fully. This enhances the flavor and creates a smooth texture.
4. Add Crunch and Texture
- Traditional Amish Broccoli Salad includes crunchy bacon and sunflower seeds, but you can add variety by using:
- Slivered almonds – For a nutty crunch.
- Pumpkin seeds – For a slightly earthy flavor.
- Dried cranberries or raisins – For a touch of sweetness.
Mix these in just before serving to maintain their crunch.
5. Let It Chill Before Serving
- Let the salad rest in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving.
- This helps the flavors meld together and improves the overall texture.
- If making ahead, wait to add the bacon and seeds until right before serving to prevent them from getting soggy.
Serving Tricks for Amish Broccoli Salad
1. Serve Cold
- Amish Broccoli Salad tastes best when served cold.
- If bringing it to a potluck or picnic, store it in a cooler or keep it chilled with an ice pack until ready to serve.
2. Presentation Matters
- Serve in a clear glass or ceramic bowl to showcase the vibrant green broccoli and colorful mix-ins.
- Garnish the top with extra bacon bits, sunflower seeds, or a sprinkle of paprika for a visually appealing finish.
3. Pairing Suggestions
- This salad pairs well with:
- Grilled meats – Such as BBQ chicken, pork chops, or steak.
- Sandwiches – Like pulled pork or turkey clubs.
- Hearty soups – Creamy potato soup or tomato bisque.
4. Make It a Meal
- Add protein like:
- Shredded chicken or grilled shrimp for a filling main course.
- Hard-boiled eggs for extra texture and flavor.
- Chickpeas or black beans for a vegetarian-friendly option.
5. Store Properly
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- If the dressing separates, give it a good stir before serving.
- Avoid freezing since the mayonnaise-based dressing may break down when thawed.
Nutritional Notes:
- The high fat content comes from the mayonnaise and bacon traditionally used in the dressing.
- You can reduce calories and fat by using light mayonnaise or Greek yogurt as a substitute.
- The fiber and vitamins primarily come from the broccoli, which provides essential nutrients like Vitamin C and Vitamin K.
- Adjust the sugar and bacon amounts to modify the sodium and sugar levels.
By following these tips and tricks, you’ll create a delicious Amish Broccoli Salad that’s crisp, creamy, and bursting with flavor. It’s easy to make ahead and perfect for any occasion!
