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Creamy Broccoli Salad

Creamy Broccoli Salad That Everyone Will Love

This creamy broccoli salad, laden with bacon and cashews, is a crowd-pleaser that’s easily modifiable and perfect for potlucks.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 6 slices Bacon Adds a salty, savory crunch; substitute with crispy chickpeas for a vegetarian version.
  • 4 cups Broccoli florets Coarsely chopped for maximum texture.
  • 1 cup Sharp cheddar cheese Can be swapped with cheese cubes or omitted for a dairy-free option.
  • 1 cup Cashews Replace with slivered almonds, pecans, walnuts, or omit for a nut-free salad.
  • 1 small Red onion Can be left out for a milder flavor.
  • 1 cup Dried cranberries Substitute with dried cherries or medjool dates.
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup Mayonnaise Use Greek yogurt as a lighter alternative.
  • 2 tablespoons Milk Can be replaced with heavy cream for a richer texture.
  • 1 tablespoon Sugar Adjust or eliminate based on preference.
  • 2 tablespoons Apple cider vinegar Can substitute with lemon juice.

Equipment

  • large mixing bowl
  • Medium-sized bowl
  • Cast iron skillet
  • whisk
  • paper towel

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large cast iron skillet, heat over medium-high heat. Add the bacon strips and cook for 6-8 minutes until crispy. Remove from skillet and drain on paper towels.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, add coarsely chopped broccoli florets, cubed cheddar cheese, chopped cashews, diced red onion, and dried cranberries.
  3. In a medium-sized bowl, combine mayonnaise, milk, sugar, and apple cider vinegar. Whisk until creamy and well-blended.
  4. Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture and toss gently until evenly coated.
  5. Cover salad and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 10gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 5IUVitamin C: 50mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 4mg

Notes

This salad can be made a day in advance for richer flavor. Store toppings separately to maintain crunch. Leftovers keep for 3-4 days in an airtight container.

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