Name: Delicious Amish Broccoli Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Amish
Ingredients: 2 cups fresh broccoli florets; 2 cups cauliflower florets; 6 slices crispy bacon, crumbled; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup finely diced red onion; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar; 2 tablespoons sugar; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Do you crave a salad that’s not just a side dish, but a total showstopper? The kind that balances crisp freshness, creamy tang, and irresistible crunch? This Delicious Amish Broccoli Salad delivers all that and more in one bowl.

Packed with fresh broccoli, smoky bacon, and a touch of sharp cheddar, all folded into a luscious creamy dressing, this salad turns simple ingredients into a bold, addictive dish. Whether it’s a holiday table or a weekday potluck, it brings that nostalgic, homestyle charm everyone secretly hopes for.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into the flavor-packed world of Amish Broccoli Salad, a little prep goes a long way. You’ll want to have the right tools handy to make everything smooth and efficient.

Cutting board & sharp knife – Crucial for chopping broccoli florets, red onions, and bacon into bite-size pieces for easy, even bites.
Large mixing bowl – This is where all the magic happens. You’ll combine and toss your ingredients here, so opt for something spacious.
Small whisk or fork – Helps emulsify the dressing, ensuring it blends into a smooth and creamy texture.
Measuring cups & spoons – For precise ratios, especially important in the dressing to balance tang and sweetness.
Spatula or salad tongs – For folding everything together without crushing the crisp textures.

Using the right equipment keeps the process easy and clean, so you spend less time prepping and more time enjoying.

Ingredients for the Delicious Amish Broccoli Salad

Each ingredient in this salad plays a specific role in creating the beloved balance of crunch, creaminess, and savory-sweet contrast:

Fresh broccoli florets – The base of the salad, adding a crunchy, fresh bite that holds up well to the creamy dressing.
Cauliflower florets – Offers a milder crunch and a color contrast that makes the dish visually appealing.
Crispy bacon – Brings a smoky, salty edge that cuts through the richness of the dressing.
Shredded cheddar cheese – Melts slightly into the salad, adding a sharp, creamy bite with every forkful.
Red onion – Adds a mild zing and a touch of color for a more vibrant presentation.
Mayonnaise – The creamy backbone of the dressing, holding everything together.
Sour cream – Adds tanginess to balance the richness of the mayo.
Apple cider vinegar – Brightens the salad with acidity and enhances flavor depth.
Sugar – Softens the tang and rounds out the dressing’s profile with a hint of sweetness.
Salt & pepper – Essential for seasoning and amplifying the other ingredients.

How To Make the Delicious Amish Broccoli Salad

Step 1: Chop and Prep the Veggies

Rinse your broccoli and cauliflower thoroughly, then chop them into small, bite-sized florets. Dice the red onion finely for just the right amount of zing without overpowering.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon to Crispy Perfection

Fry the bacon until it’s deeply golden and crispy. Once cooled, crumble it into small pieces and set aside for mixing.

Step 3: Whisk Up the Creamy Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper until completely smooth and silky.

Step 4: Toss Everything Together

In a large mixing bowl, combine the broccoli, cauliflower, red onion, shredded cheddar, and most of the crumbled bacon. Pour the dressing over and fold everything gently until evenly coated.

Step 5: Chill and Garnish

Let the salad chill in the fridge for at least one hour. Right before serving, sprinkle the remaining bacon and a touch more cheddar on top for that final pop.

How to Serve and Store Delicious Amish Broccoli Salad

This salad is best served cold, making it ideal for outdoor gatherings, family dinners, or meal prep. For presentation, scoop it into a chilled bowl and top it with a handful of freshly crumbled bacon and extra cheddar just before serving. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats, roasted chicken, or alongside hearty sandwiches.

To store leftovers, place the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for up to 3 days, although the bacon may soften slightly over time. If you’re planning to make it ahead, consider adding the bacon just before serving for maximum crunch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Amish Broccoli Salad ahead of time?

Yes, it’s even better when made a few hours ahead. The flavors meld beautifully as it chills, making it a perfect prep-ahead dish.

What can I use instead of mayo?

You can substitute with Greek yogurt or a combination of Greek yogurt and olive oil for a lighter version, though the flavor will slightly change.

Can I make this salad vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply omit the bacon or use a plant-based alternative for a vegetarian twist.

Is it okay to use frozen broccoli?

Fresh is preferred for that crisp texture, but if using frozen, thaw and drain it completely to avoid a watery salad.

What other add-ins can I include?

Sunflower seeds, dried cranberries, or raisins add a great chewy texture and sweet contrast. A handful of chopped nuts works well too.

How do I keep the broccoli from being too hard?

If you prefer a slightly softer bite, blanch the broccoli in boiling water for 1 minute, then immediately cool in ice water before adding to the salad.

Want More Salad Ideas?

If you’re loving the crisp, creamy vibes of this Amish Broccoli Salad, you’ll want to try a few more veggie-packed favorites from the site.

The California Spaghetti Salad is a zesty, colorful option filled with garden vegetables and Italian dressing. Or check out the Italian Grinder Salad, which turns a classic sub into a fork-friendly lunch.

For another cozy broccoli-based bowl, the Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup delivers comforting warmth in every spoonful. You might also enjoy the Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole for a heartier, bake-and-serve version.

Lastly, give the Crispy Air Fryer Sesame Cauliflower a try—it’s got a crunchy twist and punchy flavor that even broccoli lovers can appreciate.

Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

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If you give it a try, I’d love to hear how it worked out for you. Did you add your own twist? Maybe a nutty crunch or sweet dried fruit? Leave a comment and let’s swap ideas!

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