Aunt Bobbie’s Broccoli Salad 🥦🥓
Overview:
Aunt Bobbie’s Broccoli Salad is a delightful concoction that perfectly balances sweet and tangy flavors with a satisfying crunch. This salad, which I discovered at a potluck dinner, has since become a staple at gatherings, drawing compliments and requests for the recipe every time it’s served. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, taking just 35 minutes from start to finish, with minimal hands-on time. Plus, it’s a versatile dish that pairs well with various main courses, making it an ideal addition to any meal or potluck spread. Let’s dive into the recipe and uncover the secrets behind this crowd-pleasing dish.
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 234.7
- Fat Content: 13.1g
- Saturated Fat: 3.9g
- Cholesterol: 13.3mg
- Sodium: 258.4mg
- Carbohydrates: 26.1g
- Fiber: 1.8g
- Sugar: 19.5g
- Protein: 5.6g
Ingredients:
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 1 | Mayonnaise |
| 1/3 | Cup of Sugar |
| 1 | Tablespoon Vinegar |
| 8 | Slices of Bacon |
| 1 | Sweet Onion |
| 1/2 | Cup Raisins |
| 1/2 | Cup Shredded Cheese |
| 1/2 | Pound Broccoli Florets |
Instructions:
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Prepare the Dressing:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sugar, and vinegar. Stir well until the sugar is dissolved. This dressing forms the flavorful base of the salad. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
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Cook the Bacon:
- While the dressing is chilling, cook the bacon until crispy. You can use your preferred method, whether it’s frying, baking, or microwaving. Once cooked, allow the bacon to cool slightly before chopping it into bite-sized pieces.
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Prepare the Salad Ingredients:
- Chop the sweet onion into small pieces and shred the cheese if not already shredded. Wash the broccoli florets thoroughly and pat them dry. Cut the broccoli into bite-sized pieces, discarding any tough stems.
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Assemble the Salad:
- Retrieve the chilled dressing from the refrigerator. In a large salad bowl, combine the broccoli florets, chopped onion, raisins, shredded cheese, and crispy bacon pieces. Toss gently to evenly distribute the ingredients.
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Dress the Salad:
- Pour the chilled dressing over the salad mixture. Using salad tongs or a large spoon, gently toss the salad until all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing. Ensure that the dressing reaches every corner of the salad for maximum flavor.
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Chill and Let Flavors Develop:
- Once dressed, cover the salad bowl and return it to the refrigerator. Allow the salad to chill for at least an hour, or longer if time permits. Chilling not only helps to meld the flavors but also enhances the crispness of the broccoli.
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Serve and Enjoy:
- When ready to serve, give the salad a final toss to redistribute the dressing. Transfer it to a serving dish and garnish with additional cheese or bacon bits if desired. This vibrant and flavorful broccoli salad is sure to be a hit at any gathering or as a side dish for your favorite meal. Enjoy!
Recipe Notes:
- Variations: Feel free to customize this salad to suit your taste preferences. You can add additional ingredients such as chopped nuts, diced apples, or dried cranberries for extra texture and flavor.
- Make-Ahead: This salad can be prepared in advance, making it perfect for meal prep or busy weeknights. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
- Dressing Consistency: If the dressing is too thick after chilling, you can thin it out with a little bit of water or additional vinegar until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Serving Suggestions: Aunt Bobbie’s Broccoli Salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats, sandwiches, or as part of a picnic or barbecue spread. It’s a versatile dish that adds a pop of color and flavor to any occasion.
Conclusion:
With its irresistible combination of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors, Aunt Bobbie’s Broccoli Salad is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire. Whether you’re serving it at a potluck, family gathering, or weeknight dinner, this easy-to-make salad is guaranteed to impress. So grab your ingredients and get ready to delight your taste buds with this crowd-pleasing dish!
