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High-angle close-up of vibrant green broccoli florets coated in glossy white dressing with deep-browned bacon crumbles. (Classic Broccoli Salad Recipe)

Classic Broccoli Salad Recipe with Crispy Bacon and Creamy Dressing

A vibrant and crunchy Classic Broccoli Salad Recipe featuring raw florets, smoky deep-browned bacon, and thin red onions tossed in a thick, glossy dressing. Perfect for potlucks, this side dish balances sweet, savory, and tangy notes.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6 cups
Course: Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 340
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Salad Components
  • 6 cups broccoli florets approx. 500g, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 8 slices bacon thick-cut, rendered until deep-browned and crispy
  • 1/2 medium red onion sliced into thin half-moons
  • 1/2 cup raisins dark and wrinkled
  • 1/2 cup sunflower seeds toasted until tan
  • 1 cup mayonnaise 240ml, high-quality
  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar 30ml
  • 3 tbsp granulated sugar 38g
  • 1/2 tsp sea salt 3g
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper 1g, cracked

Equipment

  • 1 Chef's Knife For thin half-moon onion slices
  • 1 Cast Iron Skillet For rendering crispy bacon
  • 1 Large Mixing Bowl For tossing the salad

Method
 

Prep the Ingredients
  1. Cut broccoli into small, bite-sized florets. Ensure they are completely dry before assembly.
  2. Slice red onion into thin half-moon shapes.
Cook and Assemble
  1. Cook bacon in a skillet over medium heat until deep-browned and crispy. Drain on paper towels and crumble into irregular pieces.
  2. In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper. Whisk until glossy and smooth.
  3. Combine broccoli, onions, raisins, and half the bacon in a large bowl. Fold in the dressing until thoroughly coated. Top with toasted sunflower seeds and remaining bacon.

Notes

Chill for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld.
Add sunflower seeds just before serving to keep them tan and crunchy.