Vine’s Broccoli Salad is a delightful and easy-to-make dish that promises to be a hit at your next gathering or as a quick, flavorful lunch. Its balance of fresh broccoli, savory bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and a tangy-sweet dressing makes it a versatile addition to your recipe collection. Below is a detailed breakdown of Vine’s Broccoli Salad, including its ingredients, nutritional information, and step-by-step instructions.
Vine’s Broccoli Salad Recipe
Description
This is a simple and really good broccoli salad that was a big hit at a Memorial Day cook-out, where everyone asked for the recipe. It’s perfect for those times when you need to whip up something delicious in a short amount of time.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Lunch/Snacks
- Keywords: Vegetable, Potluck, < 30 Mins, Stove Top, Easy
Ingredients
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 1 | Sweet onion |
| 2 | Broccoli heads |
| 1 | Bacon strip |
| 2 cups | Sharp cheddar cheese |
| 1 cup | Miracle Whip |
| 1 1/2 cups | Mayonnaise |
| 6 tbsp | Sugar |
| 2 tbsp | Apple cider vinegar |
| 1 tbsp | Bacon grease |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 543.2 kcal
- Fat: 35.7 g
- Saturated Fat: 13.4 g
- Cholesterol: 63.7 mg
- Sodium: 773.4 mg
- Carbohydrates: 43.1 g
- Fiber: 3.3 g
- Sugars: 35 g
- Protein: 14.6 g
Recipe Instructions
-
Prepare the Ingredients:
- Dice the sweet onion into small pieces.
- Chop the broccoli into bite-sized florets. You may include the stems if desired for extra crunch.
- Cook the bacon until crispy, then crumble into small pieces. Reserve 1 tablespoon of the bacon grease for the dressing.
-
Mix the Salad:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped onion, broccoli florets, and crumbled bacon.
-
Prepare the Dressing:
- In a shaker or a separate mixing bowl, combine Miracle Whip, mayonnaise, sugar, apple cider vinegar, and reserved bacon grease. Shake or whisk until smooth and well blended.
- Taste the dressing and adjust the sweetness by adding more sugar if needed, starting with 1 cup and adding up to 1/2 cup more to achieve your preferred level of sweetness.
-
Assemble the Salad:
- Just before serving, add the sharp cheddar cheese to the broccoli mixture.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss well to coat all the ingredients evenly.
-
Serve:
- Transfer the salad to a serving dish and enjoy immediately for the best flavor and texture. This salad is best served fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours if needed.
Tips for the Perfect Broccoli Salad
- Sweetness Level: Adjust the sugar in the dressing to your taste. Some may prefer a less sweet dressing, so start with 1 cup and increase gradually.
- Cheese Options: While sharp cheddar cheese adds a nice tang, you can experiment with other cheeses like Colby-Jack or a mild cheddar for a different flavor profile.
- Bacon Alternative: For a healthier option, use turkey bacon or a vegetarian bacon substitute. Ensure to adjust the seasoning if you use these alternatives.
- Additional Ingredients: Add some dried cranberries or raisins for an extra burst of sweetness or sunflower seeds for added crunch.
Variations and Serving Suggestions
- Add Fruits: Try adding diced apples or grapes for a sweet and juicy twist.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper into the dressing for a bit of heat.
- Serving Ideas: Serve this salad as a side dish at a barbecue, a topping for baked potatoes, or in a sandwich wrap for a quick meal.
Health Considerations
- Fat Content: This recipe contains a high amount of fat, primarily from the mayonnaise and bacon. You can use low-fat versions of Miracle Whip and mayonnaise to reduce the fat content.
- Sodium Watch: With a sodium content of 773.4 mg per serving, be mindful of your portion sizes if you’re watching your sodium intake.
- Sugar: The dressing contains a significant amount of sugar. You can reduce the sugar or use a sugar substitute to make a healthier dressing.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad ingredients and the dressing separately up to a day in advance. Keep them refrigerated and mix them together just before serving to maintain the freshness and crunch of the broccoli.
2. Can I use frozen broccoli?
Fresh broccoli is recommended for the best texture and flavor. However, if you’re in a pinch, you can use frozen broccoli. Thaw it completely and pat it dry before using it in the salad.
3. How long does the salad keep?
The salad is best when served fresh, but you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. The broccoli may lose some of its crunch over time.
4. Is there a dairy-free version?
To make a dairy-free version, replace the cheddar cheese with a dairy-free cheese alternative, and use dairy-free mayonnaise and Miracle Whip.
Final Thoughts
Vine’s Broccoli Salad is not just a delightful combination of fresh and tangy flavors, but also a versatile dish that can be adapted to suit various tastes and dietary needs. Whether you’re preparing it for a potluck, a quick lunch, or a side for your dinner, this salad is sure to impress with its simple yet flavorful profile. Enjoy the ease of preparation and the vibrant taste of Vine’s Broccoli Salad!
Feel free to adapt and modify the recipe to suit your personal preferences or to meet dietary restrictions. This salad is a canvas for creativity, and its simplicity allows you to experiment with different flavors and textures. Enjoy your cooking experience, and delight your guests with this tasty broccoli salad!
