Fresh broccoli, cauliflower, cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and a tangy, creamy dressing make this Amish Broccoli Salad Recipe irresistible. This easy Amish Broccoli Salad Recipe is also a perfect summer side dish. It’s one of those dishes you can throw together in little time and still wow the crowd.
Okay, confession time: I used to avoid broccoli like it was my job. As a kid, it always felt like the sad vegetable on my plate—steamed to death and begging for cheese sauce. But then, a neighbor brought this Amish Broccoli Salad to a BBQ last summer, and suddenly, broccoli wasn’t the enemy anymore. Turns out, it was an Amish recipe handed down through her family. One bite, and I knew it was something special.
The salad was vibrant, crunchy, and had just the right balance of creamy dressing, smoky bacon, and sharp cheddar. I couldn’t stop going back for more (and trust me, I tried). Even my kids, who usually roll their eyes at anything green, were sneaking bites. That’s when I knew this recipe was special. I started experimenting with variations, like adding golden raisins or using sunflower seeds for extra crunch. It’s become a staple for summer cookouts and family gatherings.
Now, I make it all the time—whether it’s for potlucks, family dinners, or just as a side dish to jazz up a weeknight meal. It’s one of those dishes that feels fancy but is ridiculously easy to throw together. Honestly, if I can make it while refereeing sibling arguments in the kitchen, so can you.
Why You’ll Love This Amish Broccoli Salad Recipe?
This recipe is a true flavor bomb. It’s got the perfect crunch from fresh veggies, the smoky bite of bacon, the creamy tang of the dressing, and just enough cheese to make it feel indulgent. t’s also a great way to use leftover broccoli crowns or cauliflower florets, giving raw veggies a starring role. And let’s not forget how versatile it is—pair it with anything from grilled chicken to burgers, and it always works.
It’s also a lifesaver when you need something quick but impressive. No cooking, no fancy techniques—just chop, mix, and chill. Plus, it’s make-ahead-friendly, which means one less thing to worry about when hosting. This salad holds up well for 3-4 days, making it perfect for meal prep or a summer salad season favorite.
Ingredient Notes:
Here’s why each ingredient is a rock star in this recipe:
- Broccoli & Cauliflower: These crunchy veggies are the base of the salad. Fresh is best for that satisfying bite. If you’re short on time, grab fresh broccoli florets and cauliflower florets from your local grocery store to save effort. Small pieces of raw vegetables are key for the perfect crisp vegetables in every bite.
- Cheddar Cheese: Sharp and creamy, it ties the flavors together and makes the salad feel a little extra. Sharp cheddar cheese is the star here, but if you’re feeling adventurous, try swapping it with gouda or a pepper jack for an extra tangy flavor or mild heat.
- Bacon: Smoky, crispy, and downright irresistible. It’s what takes this salad to the next level. To keep the bacon crispy, drain it on a paper towel-lined plate after cooking. Savory bacon adds richness to every bite of this salad, so don’t skimp!
- Mayonnaise & Sour Cream: These combine to make the dressing rich, creamy, and perfectly tangy. For a lighter version, replace the sour cream with Greek yogurt or try using Miracle Whip for a sweeter dressing. This little adjustment adds a unique twist to the flavors of the dressing.
- Sugar: A touch of sweetness balances the tang of the vinegar and the savoriness of the bacon.
- Apple Cider Vinegar: Adds a tangy kick that brightens up the flavors. White vinegar works as a substitute, but apple cider vinegar gives this delicious salad recipe an extra layer of depth. If you’re feeling bold, try adding a touch of lemon juice for even brighter tangy flavor.
- Salt: Because every good dish needs a little seasoning to bring it all together. A sprinkle of celery seed can also enhance the dressing and tie together the sweet dressing with the raw veggies beautifully.
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How To Make Amish Broccoli Salad?
This salad is as easy as it gets—no oven, no stove, just a few simple steps:
- Chop Your Veggies: Start with the broccoli and cauliflower. Chop them into bite-sized pieces—big enough to stay crunchy but small enough to pick up with a fork. Toss them into a large bowl with the shredded cheddar and crispy bacon. Make sure the broccoli and cauliflower florets are chopped into small pieces so every bite has that perfect mix of crisp vegetables and savory bacon.
- Make the Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, sugar, apple cider vinegar, and salt. It should be smooth, creamy, and slightly tangy. If you like your dressing sweeter, feel free to add a little extra sugar (or honey if you’re feeling fancy). Miracle Whip is also a great substitute if you prefer a sweeter salad dressing with less sugar.
- Combine and Chill: Pour the dressing over the veggie mixture and stir until everything is well-coated. Then, cover the bowl and let the salad chill in the fridge for at least 2–3 hours. This step is key—the flavors really come together during this time. For best results, stir the salad once halfway through chilling to make sure the dressing evenly coats all the raw vegetables.
- Serve and Enjoy: Give the salad one final stir before serving, and you’re good to go! It’s fresh, flavorful, and guaranteed to be a hit.
Storage Options:
This salad is perfect for meal prep or leftovers. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge, and it’ll stay fresh for up to three days. If you’re storing leftovers, use a large mixing bowl with a lid to prevent the salad from drying out. If it looks a little dry after sitting, just add a spoonful of dressing and stir it back to life. This salad is also a great way to use up leftover broccoli or cauliflower florets you have on hand.
Variations and Substitutions:
Want to put your own spin on it? Here are some ideas:
- Add Nuts or Seeds: Sunflower seeds, slivered almonds, or chopped pecans add great texture. Pumpkin seeds or even pine nuts are great options for a nuttier twist.
- Make It Sweeter: Toss in some raisins or dried cranberries for a pop of sweetness. Golden raisins work wonderfully here, adding a sweet flavor that pairs perfectly with the tangy dressing.
- Switch Up the Cheese: Try gouda, blue cheese, or even a pepper jack for a fun twist. Sharp cheddar cheese remains the star, but experimenting with different cheeses like smoked gouda can bring a richer flavor.
- Lighten It Up: Use Greek yogurt in place of sour cream for a healthier option.
- Vegetarian-Friendly: Skip the bacon and add smoked paprika for that savory flavor. Or toss in hard-boiled eggs for a protein boost that fits into a vegetarian diet.
What to Serve with Amish Broccoli Salad?
This salad goes with pretty much anything, but here are a few favorites:
- Grilled Chicken: The smoky flavors pair perfectly with the tangy dressing. Adding this salad to your favorite recipes, like BBQ ribs or grilled salmon, creates a complete summer cookout menu.
- Burgers: It’s a refreshing, crunchy side to balance a juicy burger.
- BBQ Ribs: The creamy salad is the perfect counterpoint to rich, saucy ribs.
- Grilled Salmon: Light and fresh, it’s a match made in summer heaven.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Definitely! In fact, it’s even better after a few hours in the fridge, so the flavors have time to meld. If you’re prepping ahead for a large gathering, this salad can be made a full day in advance for the best results. - Can I use frozen broccoli and cauliflower?
You can, but fresh is best for that crunchy texture. If you’re using frozen, make sure to thaw and pat it dry first. Blanching frozen veggies in ice-cold water helps maintain their crispness and avoids a soggy texture. - Can I make this salad with other vegetables?
Yes! While broccoli and cauliflower are the stars of this Amish broccoli cauliflower salad recipe, you can add bell peppers, green onions, or even shredded carrots for more color and crunch. These simple ingredients make it easy to customize for your family’s tastes. - Can I serve this amish salad as a main course?
Absolutely. By adding a protein like grilled chicken, turkey, or hard-boiled eggs, you can turn this delicious side dish into a satisfying main course. It’s also a great way to sneak more vegetables into a low carb meal. - Can I use this dressing for other salads?
Definitely! The creamy broccoli salad dressing pairs beautifully with other salads, like a cold salad made with pasta or an Amish macaroni salad. You can even drizzle it over roasted vegetables for a unique twist. - What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. To keep the veggies crisp, make sure you pat them dry after washing. The salad will taste even better the next day as the flavors meld. - How do I make this salad healthier?
Swap the mayo for light mayo or Greek yogurt, and reduce the sugar. You can also load up on extra veggies or use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon. Cutting back on sugar or using low-fat mayonnaise can also make this salad fit into a low-calorie diet.
So, are you ready to try this Amish Broccoli Salad Recipe? It’s fresh, simple, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re making it for a backyard BBQ or just need a quick side dish, this one’s a keeper. If you give it a go, let me know how it turns out—or how you made it your own. Let’s chat in the comments!
Whether you make it for a big family gathering or a quick weekday side dish, this Amish Broccoli Salad is bound to become one of your favorite recipes. Don’t forget to share your variations—I’d love to hear your ideas!
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Amish Broccoli Salad Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 medium head broccoli chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 1 medium head cauliflower chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 8 slices bacon fried and crumbled
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Begin by washing and thoroughly drying the broccoli and cauliflower. Chop both into small, bite-sized pieces and place them into a large mixing bowl.
- To the bowl of vegetables, add the shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon. Mix gently to combine.
- In a separate small mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, granulated sugar, apple cider vinegar, and salt. Ensure the dressing is smooth and well-combined.
- Pour the dressing over the broccoli and cauliflower mixture. Stir until all ingredients are evenly coated in the dressing.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 2–3 hours before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and enhances the overall taste.
- Before serving, give the salad a quick stir to redistribute the dressing. Serve chilled and enjoy this delightful, crunchy side dish.
Notes
Nutrition
I’m Bitty, owner of nodashofgluten.com, where I share simple, delicious recipes for all tastes, including gluten-free. Check out my “About Me” page for more info!
