Amish Broccoli Salad

“Looking for the best Amish Broccoli Salad recipe? This easy broccoli and cauliflower salad is a creamy, crunchy side dish made with fresh vegetables, crispy bacon, and shredded Cheddar cheese, all tossed in a tangy mayonnaise-based dressing. Perfect for potlucks, BBQs, and family gatherings, this no-cook salad is quick to make and can be prepared ahead of time. Add nuts or dried fruit for extra texture and flavor. It’s a crowd-pleaser that pairs well with grilled meats, sandwiches, or soups!”

This Amish Broccoli Salad is a creamy, crunchy, and flavorful side dish that combines fresh broccoli and cauliflower with crispy bacon and shredded Cheddar cheese, all tossed in a rich, tangy dressing. It’s perfect for potlucks, picnics, or family dinners and is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

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Ingredients

• 1 head broccoli, chopped into florets
• 1 head cauliflower, chopped into florets
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 lb bacon, fried and crumbled
• 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese (plus extra for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Vegetables:
   Wash, dry, and chop the broccoli and cauliflower into bite-sized florets.
2. Make the Dressing:
   In a mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, sugar, and salt until smooth and well combined.
3. Cook the Bacon:
   Cut the bacon into small pieces and fry in a dry pan over medium heat for about 1 minute on each side, or until crispy. Transfer to a paper towel to drain any excess grease.
4. Assemble the Salad:
   In a large bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, cauliflower, crispy bacon, and shredded Cheddar cheese. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until all ingredients are evenly coated.
5. Garnish and Serve:
   Sprinkle the salad with extra shredded Cheddar cheese for garnish. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve. Enjoy!

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Tips

• Use fresh vegetables: For the best texture and flavor, use fresh, crisp broccoli and cauliflower.
• Make it ahead: Prepare the salad a few hours in advance and refrigerate to let the flavors meld together.
• Crispier bacon: Cook the bacon longer for an extra-crispy texture that adds a satisfying crunch.

Variations and Substitutions

• Add nuts: Toss in chopped almonds, pecans, or sunflower seeds for added crunch and flavor.
• Dried fruit: Add raisins or dried cranberries for a touch of sweetness.
• Lower sugar: Reduce the sugar to 1/4 cup or use a sugar substitute for a lighter version.
• Cheese swap: Use Colby Jack, mozzarella, or Swiss cheese instead of Cheddar for a different flavor profile.
• Vegetarian option: Skip the bacon and add smoked paprika or crispy fried onions for a smoky, savory element.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli and cauliflower?
Fresh is best for this recipe, but you can use frozen vegetables if needed. Just thaw and drain them well before using.

How long can I store Amish Broccoli Salad?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I make the salad the day before?
Yes! This salad tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge, making it a great make-ahead option.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve alongside grilled meats like chicken, steak, or pork chops.
• Pair with sandwiches, burgers, or a hearty soup for a complete meal.
• Add it to a potluck or picnic spread for a fresh, crunchy side dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crunchy and creamy: The perfect balance of fresh vegetables and rich, creamy dressing.
• Quick and easy: Ready in just 20 minutes with simple, everyday ingredients.
• Crowd-pleaser: A versatile side dish that everyone will love, from kids to adults.
• Make-ahead friendly: Ideal for busy days, potlucks, and gatherings.