Description
Broccoli Salad with Bacon and Cashews is a delightful mixture of fresh broccoli, crispy bacon, crunchy cashews, and sweet elements like dried cranberries or raisins. The dressing typically consists of mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, and seasoning, creating a creamy yet tangy contrast to the crunchiness of the vegetables and nuts. This dish is not only tasty but also provides a variety of textures, from the softness of the broccoli to the crispiness of the bacon and the nuttiness of the cashews.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 1 large head)
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled (about 4–6 strips)
- 1/2 cup cashews, chopped
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- 1/2 cup raisins or dried cranberries (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey (or maple syrup)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Broccoli:
- Wash and cut the broccoli into small florets. You can blanch them in boiling water for 1-2 minutes if you prefer a softer texture, then immediately transfer to an ice bath to cool. Drain and pat dry.
- Cook the Bacon:
- In a skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from the skillet and let it drain on paper towels. Once cooled, crumble the bacon.
- Mix the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
- Combine Salad Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, combine the broccoli florets, crumbled bacon, chopped cashews, red onion, cheddar cheese (if using), and raisins or dried cranberries (if using).
- Add Dressing:
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine all the ingredients evenly.
- Chill and Serve:
- Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
Tip for Best Flavor: This Broccoli Salad with Bacon and Cashews tastes even better after chilling for an hour, allowing the dressing to soak into the veggies. For a touch of sweetness, you can add a handful of dried cranberries or raisins. It’s a perfect make-ahead side for BBQs, potlucks, or weeknight dinners—crunchy, savory, and satisfying!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Mixed
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Broccoli Salad with Bacon and Cashews