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If you’re looking for a delightful and refreshing dish that bursts with flavor and texture, the Amish Broccoli Salad Recipe is an absolute must-try. This vibrant salad combines tender blanched broccoli and cauliflower florets with sharp cheddar, smoky bacon, and a creamy, tangy dressing that perfectly balances sweet and savory notes. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm, comforting hug from the Amish countryside, bringing wholesome ingredients together in a way that’s both simple and irresistible. Whether you’re bringing it to a potluck, serving it at a family dinner, or just craving a fresh, crunchy side, this salad truly stands out as a personal favorite that’s easy to whip up in no time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the secret to nailing this Amish Broccoli Salad Recipe. Each item is chosen not only for flavor but also for how it adds color, crunch, and richness to the dish—making every bite a delight.
- Broccoli florets (4 cups blanched): Offers vibrant green color and a satisfying crunch, balancing the creamy dressing perfectly.
- Cauliflower florets (3 cups blanched): Adds a mild flavor and textural contrast to complement the broccoli.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup): Provides a sharp, creamy richness that melts in your mouth.
- Red onion (1/2 cup finely chopped): Gives a subtle bite and bright purple hue to brighten up the salad.
- Crispy crumbled bacon (1/2 cup): Introduces smoky, salty notes and a crunchy finish to every forkful.
- Mayonnaise (1/2 cup): Creates a luscious, creamy base that binds the salad together.
- Sour cream (1/4 cup): Adds a tangy layer that lightens and enriches the dressing’s flavor.
- Apple cider vinegar (2 tablespoons): Cuts through the creaminess with a gentle tartness for balance.
- Sugar (2 tablespoons): Sweetens the dressing subtly, rounding out the vinegar’s acidity.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Enhances and harmonizes all the vibrant flavors in the salad.
How to Make Amish Broccoli Salad Recipe
Step 1: Blanch the Broccoli and Cauliflower
Start by giving your broccoli and cauliflower a quick blanch. This process softens the florets just enough to take away any raw bitterness while preserving their bright colors and crunch. Immerse them in boiling water for two minutes, then immediately transfer them to an ice bath to stop the cooking. Make sure to drain and pat them dry carefully so your salad doesn’t get watery.
Step 2: Combine the Veggies and Toppings
In a large bowl, mix the cooled broccoli and cauliflower with shredded cheddar, chopped red onion, and crispy bacon. This creates the hearty base of the salad, and you’ll already start to see how the colors and textures come together beautifully.
Step 3: Whisk Together the Dressing
In a separate bowl, whisk mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined. This dressing is the soul of the Amish Broccoli Salad Recipe, offering a creamy yet tangy dressing that perfectly complements the vegetables and bacon.
Step 4: Toss the Salad
Pour the dressing over the veggie mixture and gently toss everything until each piece is evenly coated. This step ensures balanced flavor in every bite. Once mixed, refrigerate the salad for at least one hour to let those flavors meld and deepen, giving it that lovely, cohesive taste.
Step 5: Final Touches Before Serving
Give the salad one last gentle toss before plating. For an extra touch of indulgence, sprinkle a bit more bacon and cheddar on top. This final flourish not only looks inviting but adds a crunch and richness that makes the dish extra special.
How to Serve Amish Broccoli Salad Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing your Amish Broccoli Salad Recipe with extra bacon bits and shredded cheddar brings fresh texture and bursts of flavor with each forkful. You can also add chopped green onions or even a sprinkle of toasted sunflower seeds for added crunch and a nutty twist.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats like chicken or pork, adding a crisp, refreshing counterpoint to smoky or spicy dishes. It also stands out next to a hearty sandwich or as part of a picnic spread, bringing a lovely balance to heavier sides.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun presentation, try serving the salad in hollowed-out mini bell peppers or crisp lettuce cups for an appetizer-style bite. You can also layer it in a glass trifle bowl to showcase the vibrant colors or pack it in mason jars for a grab-and-go lunch option.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
The Amish Broccoli Salad Recipe keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Its flavors actually deepen over time, making leftovers a delicious treat. Just remember to give it a gentle stir before serving to refresh the texture.
Freezing
This salad doesn’t freeze well because the creamy dressing and fresh vegetables can separate and become watery. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated for a few days rather than frozen.
Reheating
Since this is a chilled salad, reheating isn’t recommended. It’s designed to be served cold, so simply take it out of the fridge ahead of time for a few minutes to allow the flavors to bloom before enjoying.
FAQs
Can I use raw broccoli and cauliflower instead of blanching?
Yes, you can use raw, but blanching gently softens the vegetables, cutting any bitterness and making them easier to eat while preserving their color and crunch.
Is there a way to make this salad dairy-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the cheddar cheese with a dairy-free cheese alternative and use vegan mayonnaise and sour cream to keep the creamy dressing dairy-free.
Can I make this salad ahead of time for a party?
Yes, the Amish Broccoli Salad Recipe actually tastes better after sitting in the fridge for a few hours or overnight, allowing the flavors to meld perfectly.
What can I use instead of bacon for a vegetarian version?
Try crispy smoked tempeh, coconut bacon, or simply omit it and add extra crunchy nuts like toasted almonds or walnuts for a different but tasty texture.
How do I keep the salad from getting watery?
Make sure to drain and pat dry your blanched vegetables thoroughly and avoid over-mixing once the dressing is combined to prevent excess moisture.
Final Thoughts
This Amish Broccoli Salad Recipe is a wonderful, versatile dish that brings brightness, creaminess, and a bit of smoky indulgence to your table. It’s perfect for all occasions and easy enough to become a weekly favorite. I can’t wait for you to try it and see how this simple yet extraordinary salad brings joy to your meals!
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Amish Broccoli Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Amish Broccoli Salad is a flavorful and crunchy side dish featuring blanched broccoli and cauliflower florets combined with cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and a creamy, tangy dressing made with mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, and a touch of sugar. It’s a refreshing and satisfying salad perfect for potlucks, family dinners, or any occasion when you want a delicious vegetable salad with a creamy twist.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 4 cups broccoli florets, blanched
- 3 cups cauliflower florets, blanched
- 1/2 cup finely chopped red onion
Dairy & Protein
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup crispy crumbled bacon
Dressing
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Blanch the vegetables. Immerse the broccoli and cauliflower florets in boiling water for 2 minutes, then immediately transfer them to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Drain well and pat dry thoroughly to remove all moisture.
- Combine the main ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, add the blanched broccoli and cauliflower, shredded cheddar cheese, finely chopped red onion, and crispy crumbled bacon. Mix gently to combine.
- Prepare the dressing. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper until you get a smooth and well blended dressing.
- Toss salad with dressing. Pour the dressing over the vegetable and cheese mixture and toss gently but thoroughly so that all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Chill and serve. Refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together. Before serving, give the salad one final gentle toss and optionally garnish with extra bacon and cheddar cheese for added flavor and presentation.
Notes
- Blanching broccoli and cauliflower preserves their bright color and crisp-tender texture.
- Use crispy bacon for the best crunch and flavor contrast in the salad.
- Adjust sugar and vinegar in the dressing according to your preferred level of sweetness and tanginess.
- This salad can be made up to a day in advance to enhance the flavor.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
