Amish Broccoli Salad Recipe – A Perfectly Crunchy, Creamy, and Savory Delight!

There’s something truly special about a classic Amish Broccoli Salad! It’s a crisp, refreshing dish packed with flavors and textures that make it a hit at any gathering. Whether you’re prepping for a family dinner, holiday potluck, or just craving a light but hearty side, this salad is a perfect choice. The crunch from fresh broccoli and sunflower seeds, the sweetness from apples and dried cranberries, and the savory goodness of bacon and cheddar cheese all come together in harmony. And let’s not forget the creamy dressing that ties everything together!

I’m so excited to share this recipe with you today! It’s one of those salads that you can whip up quickly, but the flavor and satisfaction linger long after the meal is over. Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Amish Broccoli Salad

• Incredible Texture: Between the crunch of broccoli and bacon, the chewy sweetness of cranberries, and the creaminess of the dressing, every bite of this salad is a delight!
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily switch up the ingredients to suit your tastes or what you have on hand. More on that below!
• Simple but Flavorful: Despite its simplicity, the combination of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors makes it anything but boring.
• Perfect for Gatherings: This salad holds up well, making it an excellent dish to bring to potlucks or parties.

What Does Amish Broccoli Salad Taste Like?

This Amish Broccoli Salad strikes a perfect balance between fresh and indulgent. You get the crunch from the raw broccoli, sunflower seeds, and bacon, complemented by the sweetness of dried cranberries and apples. The sharpness of cheddar cheese and the savory notes from the bacon cut through the sweetness, while the creamy dressing, with its slight tang from the apple cider vinegar, brings everything together.

Trust me, the smell and taste when you take that first bite are unforgettable. It’s like a party in your mouth, where each ingredient gets its moment to shine, and yet they all blend perfectly.

Benefits of This Recipe

• Packed with Nutrients: Broccoli is a powerhouse vegetable, loaded with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. Apples and cranberries add additional nutrients, making this a healthier indulgence.
• Easy to Prepare: You’ll have this salad ready in under 30 minutes!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: The salad tastes even better after chilling for a bit, making it a great dish to prepare in advance.

Ingredients for Amish Broccoli Salad

Here’s what you’ll need to make this easy and delicious Amish Broccoli Salad:

• 6 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 2 medium-sized heads of broccoli)
• 1/2 cup red onion, finely diced
• 1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled (for a smoky and savory bite)
• 1/4 cup sunflower seeds (adds a nutty crunch)
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries or raisins (for a hint of sweetness)
• 1 large apple, diced (adds crispness and sweetness)

For the Creamy Dressing:

• 1 cup mayonnaise (for the creamy base)
• 2 tbsp sugar (to balance the tang)
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar (for a slight tang and depth)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step: How to Make Amish Broccoli Salad

1. Prepare the Salad:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the broccoli florets, diced red onion, shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, sunflower seeds, dried cranberries, and diced apple. You’re going to love the burst of colors and textures just from assembling this salad!

2. Make the Dressing:

In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sugar, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. This dressing is a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and creamy, and it’s going to coat everything beautifully.

3. Toss the Salad:

Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated. Be generous with that dressing—every bit of this salad deserves a creamy touch!

4. Chill and Serve:

Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld together, making each bite even more delicious. Serve it cold and enjoy!

Ingredient Additions and Substitutions

• Swap the Cheese: If you’re not a fan of sharp cheddar, try mild cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even feta for a tangy twist.
• Use Greek Yogurt: For a lighter version of the dressing, substitute half the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt.
• Add Some Protein: Want to make this a more substantial meal? Add shredded rotisserie chicken or some cubed ham for extra protein.
• Nutty Additions: Almonds, pecans, or walnuts can be swapped in for the sunflower seeds for an added crunch.
• Other Fruits: Grapes or pear slices can be a fun and tasty swap for the apples.

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What to Serve with Amish Broccoli Salad

This salad is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of dishes. Serve it alongside:

• Grilled chicken or pork: The salad’s sweetness complements savory grilled meats perfectly.
• Burgers or sandwiches: It adds a fresh, crunchy contrast to hearty burgers or sandwiches.
• BBQ ribs: The tangy dressing is a great match for smoky, barbecue flavors.

Tips for Making the Best Amish Broccoli Salad

• Cut Broccoli Evenly: Make sure your broccoli florets are evenly sized for a more consistent crunch in every bite.
• Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh broccoli and apples for the best texture and flavor.
• Let It Chill: Don’t skip the chilling time! This salad benefits from at least an hour in the fridge so that the flavors can really come together.

Storing Amish Broccoli Salad

Got leftovers? Lucky you! This salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The broccoli stays crunchy, and the dressing doesn’t get soggy, making it a great option for meal prep or enjoying as leftovers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, this salad tastes even better after chilling for a few hours, so feel free to make it a day in advance.

2. Can I use a different dressing?

If you’re not a fan of mayo-based dressings, you can try a yogurt-based or even a vinaigrette dressing for a lighter option.

3. Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you check that your bacon and other ingredients don’t contain hidden gluten.

Conclusion

There you have it—your new favorite salad! This Amish Broccoli Salad is not only packed with flavor and texture but also incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re serving it as a side for dinner or bringing it to a gathering, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

If you loved this recipe, don’t forget to check out some of my other favorites, like this indulgent Bacon Bourbon Caramel Cheesecake or a fun twist with Taco Cupcakes! I can’t wait to hear what you think—leave a review or share your photos on Pinterest!

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 10g
• Fat: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 4g

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