The Ultimate Creamy Broccoli Salad Recipe: Bacon, Raisins & Honey Dressing
Discover the ultimate broccoli salad recipe that will quickly become your new favorite! This incredible, no-cook cold side dish combines crisp broccoli florets with savory bacon, sweet raisins, and a tantalizingly tangy-sweet honey dressing. It’s not just a crowd-pleaser; it’s also a healthy, keto and low-carb approved option that fits seamlessly into almost any meal plan. Whether you’re looking for a fresh side for a summer BBQ or a flavorful addition to your weeknight dinner, this versatile recipe provides the perfect base for endless delicious variations. Get ready to elevate your salad game!
Among countless variations, this particular creamy broccoli salad recipe stands out as a true gem. Its delightful combination of textures and flavors makes it incredibly addictive – in the best way possible! If you’re on the hunt for more inventive ways to incorporate vegetables into your diet, consider these Roasted Vegetables, which would pair wonderfully as a topping for this Cauliflower Pizza (Costco Copycat), or whip up this savory Asian Broccoli Recipe for another healthy and flavorful dish. But for now, let’s dive into the star of the show: our irresistible broccoli salad!
Broccoli Salad With Bacon: A Flavorful and Versatile Side Dish
This broccoli bacon salad is truly a “can’t-stop-eating-it-delicious” side dish that perfectly complements a wide array of main courses. What truly sets it apart is its homemade dressing: a creamy, slightly tangy concoction with just the right touch of sweetness from honey. Unlike many recipes that rely on granulated sugar, our use of honey makes this a healthier broccoli salad option without sacrificing any flavor. In fact, this versatile dressing is so good, you’ll want to use it for other salads too – it’s phenomenal on a classic coleslaw or a cauliflower salad!
One of my favorite shortcuts for preparing this salad involves making a batch of my Oven-Baked Bacon ahead of time. I cook a large quantity, then freeze it, making it incredibly convenient for quick recipes like this one. When I’m ready to make the salad, I simply pull out the desired number of bacon slices, microwave them for about 30 seconds until crisp again, and then chop them up. It’s an absolute game-changer for meal prep!
This salad also shines with its excellent shelf life. If you’re fortunate enough to have leftovers, they hold up beautifully in the fridge. There’s absolutely no need for steaming or cooking the broccoli – the raw florets will naturally soften and wilt slightly as they marinate in the dressing, developing an even deeper flavor profile. However, if you prefer your broccoli super crisp, serve it immediately after tossing. I also recommend cutting the broccoli into small, bite-sized pieces; this not only makes the salad easier to eat but also aids in digestion and ensures every forkful is a perfect blend of ingredients.
This bacon broccoli salad recipe holds a special place in my heart, dating back to my early blogging days in 2015. It was shared with me by Marina, who brought several of her family’s cherished recipes to the blog. She enthusiastically approved this Broccoli Salad as worthy of its own post, and it has remained a beloved staple ever since. Over the years, I’ve experimented with countless variations, confirming its incredible versatility and adaptability to different tastes and ingredients.
Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Broccoli Salad:
While this salad is already fantastic with its core components, the dressing truly elevates it to one of the best broccoli salad recipes out there! Its inherent versatility also means you can easily customize it to your liking. For instance, if raisins aren’t available, dried cranberries make an excellent 1:1 substitute. Feel free to incorporate up to 1/3 cup of additional mix-ins like halved cherry tomatoes or seedless grapes for extra color and flavor. However, to maintain the perfect dressing balance, I recommend sticking to no more than two extra add-ins; beyond that, you might need to adjust the dressing quantities.
- Broccoli: When selecting broccoli at the grocery store, always look for a firm, compact head with crisp, vibrant green leaves and tightly closed dark green or purplish-green buds. These are indicators of freshness and optimal flavor. Avoid any bunches with open buds, yellowing florets, or wilted stems, as these suggest the broccoli is past its prime.
- Bacon: You’ll need about 8 slices of cooked and finely chopped bacon. For maximum convenience, prepare it in the oven or air fryer ahead of time. If you’re in a hurry, a good quality 1/3 cup of real crumbled bacon bits (not imitation) can be a suitable substitute. The savory, smoky crunch of bacon is essential to this salad’s appeal.
- Red Onion: Sweet red or purple onions are fantastic for adding a pop of color and a mild, slightly pungent bite that beautifully contrasts with the other ingredients. If red onion is too strong for your palate, a milder white sweet Vidalia onion can be used.
- Raisins: These provide a delightful burst of sweetness and a chewy texture that complements the crisp broccoli and savory bacon. As mentioned, dried red cranberries are an excellent alternative if you prefer a tarter note.
- Broccoli Salad Dressing: The heart of this recipe is its incredibly creamy honey dressing. It’s surprisingly simple, requiring just a few staple ingredients: creamy mayonnaise for richness, a touch of golden honey for natural sweetness, and a splash of vinegar for that essential tangy zing. This combination creates a perfectly balanced dressing that ties all the flavors together without being overly sweet or heavy.
How To Make Irresistible Bacon Broccoli Salad: Step-by-Step Guide
Making this flavorful bacon broccoli salad is incredibly straightforward and requires minimal cooking, making it an ideal choice for busy days or warm weather. The first step involves preparing your bacon, which can be done using your preferred method. I find baking bacon in the oven yields perfectly crispy results with less mess, but pan-frying or broiling are also great options. Remember, if time is of the essence, quality bacon bits can be a quick substitute for freshly cooked bacon slices.
- Prepare the Broccoli: Begin by thoroughly washing your head of fresh broccoli. Pat it completely dry with paper towels – this is important for the dressing to adhere well. Carefully cut the broccoli into uniform, bite-sized florets. The smaller the pieces, the easier they are to eat and digest, and the better they will absorb the dressing’s flavors. Place these prepped florets into a large mixing or serving bowl.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: To the bowl with the broccoli, add your cooked and chopped bacon, finely diced red onions, and sweet raisins. Ensure these ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the broccoli for a balanced flavor in every bite.
- Whisk the Dressing: In a separate, smaller bowl, prepare your creamy honey dressing. Whisk together the mayonnaise, honey, and white distilled vinegar until the mixture is completely smooth and well-emulsified. The goal is a consistent, lump-free dressing that will coat every ingredient beautifully.
- Toss and Serve: Pour the freshly prepared dressing generously over the broccoli mixture in the large serving bowl. Using a pair of salad tongs or large spoons, gently toss all the ingredients until every floret, piece of bacon, and raisin is thoroughly coated in the creamy dressing. Serve immediately for a wonderfully crunchy and fresh salad, or if you prefer a slightly softer, more “wilted” texture (similar to coleslaw), you can refrigerate it for up to 2 hours before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the broccoli to soften slightly.
Frequently Asked Questions About Broccoli Salad
What Exactly Is In This Broccoli Salad?
You might be wondering about the components of this popular side dish. While traditional broccoli salad recipes often feature add-ins like seedless grapes and sunflower seeds, our recipe simplifies the base for maximum accessibility and deliciousness. This version calls for a head of fresh, firm broccoli, crisp red onion, sweet raisins, and savory bacon, all tossed in a luscious, creamy honey dressing.
Many classic recipes use granulated sugar in the dressing, but we opt for honey to provide a more natural and healthier sweetness, which also adds a unique depth of flavor. The hint of tang from the vinegar perfectly balances the sweetness, creating a dressing that’s both invigorating and satisfying. It’s a harmonious blend of textures and tastes that makes this salad truly exceptional.
Choosing the Right Broccoli for Your Salad:
For the best broccoli salad, selecting fresh, high-quality broccoli is key. Look for heads with firm, sturdy stems and tightly packed, dark green or purplish-green florets. The leaves should appear crisp and vibrant. Avoid any broccoli that looks limp, has yellowing florets, or soft, wilted stems, as these are signs of age and reduced freshness. A fresh head of broccoli will contribute significantly to the crisp texture and vibrant flavor of your salad.
Storing and Preserving Broccoli: To maximize freshness, store unwashed broccoli in the refrigerator, ideally in a loosely sealed plastic bag, for up to 5 days. Washing it just before use helps maintain its crispness longer.
Can You Make Broccoli Salad With Frozen Broccoli?
Yes, you can certainly make a broccoli salad using frozen broccoli florets, especially if you need a quick side dish to accompany grilled chicken or meat. However, it’s important to note that steamed or blanched frozen broccoli will have a softer texture compared to fresh, crisp raw broccoli. This difference in texture is the primary distinction between using fresh and frozen.
To Make Broccoli Salad with Frozen Florets: Bring about 24 oz of frozen broccoli florets to a boil for just 1-2 minutes until slightly tender-crisp. Immediately transfer them into a bowl of ice-cold water to halt the cooking process and preserve their vibrant color. Once thoroughly cooled, drain the broccoli completely and pat it very dry before proceeding with the rest of the recipe instructions. This prevents a watery salad.
Important Note: For *this* particular recipe, we do not blanch, steam, or pre-cook the broccoli florets. It is intentionally designed as a cold, raw broccoli salad to be served fresh and crisp. The beauty of this recipe is that the broccoli will naturally soften and “wilt” slightly as it sits in the creamy dressing over time, much like a coleslaw. So, if you do prefer softer florets without pre-cooking, simply allow the salad to chill in the refrigerator for a longer period (2 hours or more) before serving.
How Long Does Broccoli Salad Last in the Refrigerator?
You’ll be pleasantly surprised to learn that this broccoli salad maintains its deliciousness even on the second day! Once dressed, broccoli salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day while still maintaining great texture and flavor. However, for optimal crispness and freshness, it’s always best to enjoy it within a few hours of preparation.
If you wish to extend its shelf life, you can prep all the salad ingredients (broccoli, bacon, onion, raisins) and store them separately from the dressing. When stored this way in an airtight container, the prepped components will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply combine them with the dressing just before serving.
Can You Make Broccoli Salad Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Broccoli salad is an excellent make-ahead option, especially for gatherings or busy weeks. The key to successful make-ahead preparation is to keep the dressing separate from the main salad ingredients until just before you’re ready to serve. Adding the dressing too far in advance will cause the broccoli florets to wilt excessively over a long period, compromising their desired crispness.
To serve your broccoli salad at its peak freshness and texture, toss the prepped broccoli, bacon, onions, and raisins with the dressing right before serving. If you prefer the broccoli to have a slightly softer, marinated texture, you can combine the salad and dressing 1 to 2 hours before serving and keep it chilled in the refrigerator.
Delicious Broccoli Salad Variations:
This recipe is incredibly versatile and serves as a fantastic base for numerous delicious variations. Feel free to get creative with your additions!
- Broccoli Apple Salad: For a refreshing crunch and extra sweetness, core and dice one medium apple (like a Honeycrisp or Granny Smith) and fold it into the salad.
- Bacon and Cheese Broccoli Salad: Enhance the savory profile by adding 8 oz of shredded sharp cheddar cheese or a blend of your favorite cheeses.
- Cranberry Variation: Easily substitute the raisins for dried cranberries at a 1:1 ratio for a tarter, yet equally delicious, sweet component.
- Broccoli Grape Salad: Incorporate 1/2 cup of halved seedless purple or green grapes for a juicy burst of sweetness. For an even more colorful and flavorful combination, I also enjoy adding 1/3 cup of halved cherry tomatoes with the grapes.
- Broccoli Slaw Salad: Transform it into a slaw-style salad by adding 1/2 cup of shredded red cabbage and 1/3 cup of grated carrots for added color, crunch, and nutrients.
- Amish Broccoli Salad: For an Amish-inspired twist, use a blend of half cauliflower and half broccoli florets. You can also swap out 1/3 cup of the mayonnaise for sour cream or plain Greek yogurt for a different creamy tang.
- Broccoli Cauliflower Salad: Mix together equal parts, about 7 oz each, of finely cut cauliflower florets and broccoli florets. Then, combine with the remaining salad ingredients for a heartier, mixed vegetable salad.
- Chicken Salad Broccoli Salad: For a complete meal, stir in 8 oz of cooked and cooled shredded or diced chicken breast. This turns it into a hearty and satisfying main dish.
Important Note: When adding extra ingredients, remember that the dressing portions may need slight adjustments. I generally recommend adding no more than two additional mix-ins at a time. If you go beyond that, you might need to increase the dressing quantity to ensure everything is adequately coated and flavorful.
**I believe this recipe, with its simple yet robust base, provides the best foundation for exploring these exciting variations, making it truly the best broccoli salad recipe you’ll find.
How To Store Broccoli Salad:
Proper storage is essential to keep your broccoli salad fresh and delicious. If the salad has already been tossed with the dressing, any leftovers should be stored in an airtight food container in the refrigerator and consumed within 1 day for the best quality and texture.
For longer storage, or if you’re preparing the salad in advance, keep the prepped broccoli florets, bacon, onions, and raisins separate from the dressing. Stored in individual airtight containers in the refrigerator, these components can last for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine the salad ingredients with the dressing. Remember to toss it right before serving for maximum crispness, or 1-2 hours prior if you prefer the florets to be slightly wilted and infused with the dressing’s flavor.
Expert Broccoli Salad Tips for Success:
- Make Ahead Mastery: To prepare your broccoli salad in advance, simply chop all the salad ingredients (broccoli, bacon, onion, raisins) and place them in an airtight food container. Store the creamy dressing separately in its own container in the fridge. This method keeps the broccoli crisp until you’re ready to combine and serve.
- Honey Substitutes: If you don’t have honey on hand or prefer an alternative, you can easily substitute it with agave nectar, maple syrup, or even a touch of cane sugar. Adjust the quantity to your taste, as different sweeteners have varying levels of sweetness.
- Pre-Cooked Bacon Perfection: Save time by making your bacon ahead! Follow my Oven-Baked Bacon Recipe to cook bacon in bulk, then freeze it. Thaw and crisp it quickly in the microwave for this and other easy salad recipes. Alternatively, pre-cooked bacon slices are readily available at most grocery stores for ultimate convenience.
- Bacon Bits for Speed: In a pinch, use 1/3 cup of high-quality, real crumbled bacon bits as a substitute for freshly cooked bacon slices. Be sure to choose “real” bacon bits over imitation-flavored versions for authentic flavor.
- Add Extra Crunch & Flavor: Boost the texture and nutritional value by adding a handful of sliced almonds, sunflower seeds, or crunchy walnuts. For an additional layer of sweetness and crunch, finely diced apples (like Honeycrisp or Fuji) are also a wonderful addition.
- Optimal Freshness: This raw broccoli salad is truly at its best when enjoyed within 1 day of preparation if it has been tossed with the dressing. For crisper results, consume it within a few hours.
- Explore Variations: Don’t forget to check out all the exciting Broccoli Salad Variations listed in the Q&A section above. There’s a perfect twist for every palate!
- Minimal Prep, Maximum Flavor: One of the best aspects of this recipe is its simplicity. There’s no need to blanch, steam, or pre-cook the broccoli, saving you time and effort while maintaining its natural crunch.
- Broccoli Salad Without Mayo (Lighter Option): If you’re looking for a lighter, mayo-free dressing, consider whipping up a batch of homemade Honey Mustard Dressing. It offers a tangy-sweet alternative that’s equally delicious.
- Keto & Low-Carb Approved: With its fresh ingredients and natural honey sweetness (in moderation), this broccoli salad easily fits into most keto and low-carb meal plans, offering a healthy and satisfying side.
- Raisin & Cranberry Interchangeability: The raisins in this recipe can be perfectly interchanged with dried cranberries for a slightly tarter flavor profile without altering the texture significantly.
- Lighten Up the Dressing: For a lighter version of the creamy dressing, opt for light mayonnaise or a healthier alternative like avocado oil mayonnaise, which still provides that desired richness.
More Delicious Broccoli Recipes to Try:
- Broccoli Pasta Salad
- Broccoli Cheddar Soup (Panera Bread Copycat)
- Easy Broccoli Cheese Soup
- Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice
- Teriyaki Glazed Salmon Recipe (make it a broccoli casserole if you don’t have a sheet pan)
- Broccoli Ramen Salad
Detailed Recipe: How To Make Broccoli Salad
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Broccoli Salad Recipe
Equipment
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1 Wire Whisk (to prepare the dressing)
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1 mixing bowl
Ingredients
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13 oz broccoli (1 large head, cut into bite-sized florets)
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8 slices cooked bacon (finely chopped)
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1/2 cup red onion (diced)
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1/3 cup raisins
Broccoli Salad Dressing:
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2/3 cup mayonnaise
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1 Tbsp white distilled vinegar
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2 tsp honey
Instructions
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In a large salad bowl, combine the bite-sized broccoli florets, chopped bacon, diced red onion, and raisins. Toss gently to mix these ingredients thoroughly. Set aside. -
Meanwhile, in a separate small bowl, prepare the creamy dressing. Whisk together the mayonnaise, honey, and white distilled vinegar until the mixture is smooth and well combined. -
Pour the whisked dressing over the combined salad mixture in the large bowl. Using salad tongs, gently toss all the ingredients until every piece is thoroughly and evenly coated with the creamy dressing. -
Serve the salad immediately for a wonderfully crisp and fresh texture. Alternatively, if you prefer the broccoli florets to be slightly softer and more infused with the dressing, you can refrigerate the salad for up to 2 hours before serving. Enjoy!
Nutrition per serving