Martie's Broccoli Salad with Bacon and Cheese

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Are you looking for a delicious and nutritious salad recipe that will satisfy your taste buds?

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Martie's Broccoli Salad with Bacon and Cheese
Prep
20 min
Cook
10 min
Total
1 hr 35 min
Servings
12

Method

  1. Place the bacon in a large skillet and cook over medium-high heat, turning occasionally, until it becomes crisp. This should take approximately 10 minutes.

  2. Once the bacon is done, remove it from the skillet and drain the slices on paper towels. Allow it to cool for about 5 minutes until it is easy to handle.

  3. Crumble the bacon into a small bowl.

  4. Cut the broccoli into florets and dice up the stems. Put both the florets and stems into a large bowl.

  5. Mix in the onion, raisins, and Cheddar cheese with the broccoli.

  6. Stir in the crumbled bacon.

  7. In a separate small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sugar, and vinegar.

  8. Pour the mayonnaise mixture over the broccoli mixture and mix until the broccoli is completely covered.

  9. Refrigerate the salad for 1 hour before serving.

  10. If desired, you can use black Thompson raisins instead of golden raisins.

  11. Alternatively, you can substitute Miracle Whip(R) for mayonnaise if you prefer.

  12. Lastly, you have the option to dice the Cheddar cheese instead of shredding it, if you prefer.

About this recipe

Are you looking for a delicious and nutritious salad recipe that will satisfy your taste buds? Look no further than Martie's Broccoli Salad with Bacon and Cheese. This mouthwatering salad combines the fresh crunch of broccoli with the savory goodness of bacon and cheese for a winning combination. It's the perfect dish to bring to a potluck, serve at a BBQ, or enjoy as a light lunch or dinner. Let's dive in and discover the secrets behind this delectable salad.

The Crunchy Base: Broccoli

Broccoli is the star of this salad, providing a satisfying crunch and a plethora of health benefits. Packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, broccoli is a nutritional powerhouse that supports a healthy immune system, aids digestion, and promotes heart health. Its vibrant green color adds a pop of freshness to the salad, making it visually appealing as well.

The Savory Twist: Bacon

Who can resist the irresistible flavor of crispy bacon? The smoky and salty notes of bacon pair perfectly with the crispness of broccoli, adding a burst of indulgence to the salad. Bacon not only adds a wealth of flavor but also provides protein, which helps keep you feeling full and satisfied. Just a few strips of bacon can take this salad from ordinary to extraordinary.

The Cheesy Goodness: Cheese

What's a salad without a little cheese? The creamy and tangy taste of cheese complements the other ingredients in Martie's Broccoli Salad, creating a harmonious medley of flavors. Whether you prefer sharp cheddar, crumbled feta, or grated Parmesan, adding cheese adds a luxurious touch to the salad. Plus, it's a great source of calcium and protein.

How to Make Martie's Broccoli Salad with Bacon and Cheese

Now that you know the key ingredients, let's walk through the simple steps to make this crowd-pleasing salad. First, gather your ingredients: fresh broccoli florets, crispy bacon, your favorite cheese, and a tangy dressing of your choice. Chop the broccoli into bite-sized pieces and cook the bacon until it's nice and crispy. Once the bacon has cooled, crumble it into small bits. Next, combine the broccoli, bacon, and cheese in a large bowl. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is well coated. Finally, refrigerate the salad for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld together. When you're ready to serve, give it one final toss and enjoy!

Frequently asked questions

. Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?

Yes, you can definitely substitute turkey bacon for regular bacon if you prefer a leaner option. It will still add a savory touch to the salad.

. Is this salad suitable for vegetarians?

The original recipe includes bacon, which is not vegetarian. However, you can easily omit the bacon and still enjoy a delicious vegetarian version of this salad.

. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese to find your favorite combination. Goat cheese, blue cheese, or even a creamy feta would all work well.

. How long will this salad keep in the refrigerator?

This salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Just make sure to keep it covered to maintain its freshness.

. Can I add other vegetables to the salad?

Of course! While broccoli is the star of this salad, you can add other vegetables like cherry tomatoes, red onions, or sliced bell peppers to add even more color and flavor.

. Can I use a bottled dressing instead of making my own?

Absolutely! If you're short on time or prefer the convenience, you can use your favorite store-bought dressing instead of making your own.

. Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, this salad is naturally gluten-free as long as you choose a gluten-free bacon and dressing option.

. Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, this salad actually tastes even better when made ahead of time. The flavors have time to meld together, resulting in a more flavorful and delicious salad.

In conclusion, Martie's Broccoli Salad with Bacon and Cheese is a delightful combination of fresh, crunchy broccoli, savory bacon, and creamy cheese. It's a versatile dish that can be enjoyed on its own or as a side to complement your favorite main course. With its vibrant colors and bold flavors, this salad is sure to impress your family and friends. So why wait? Give it a try and experience the deliciousness for yourself!

AprilCook, recipe developer and the heart of Chefwiz. More about April

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