Angelia’s Broccoli Bacon Salad: A Crunchy, Creamy Summer Classic with a Twist
Looking for a side dish that’s as sassy as it is satisfying? Say hello to Angelia’s Broccoli Bacon Salad, a cool, crunchy blend of smoky bacon, sharp cheddar, and sweet bites of cranberry that’s become a summertime staple around here. Whether you're headed to a family cookout, a church picnic, or just need a reason to break out your favorite wooden salad bowl, this recipe brings the flavor and the fun.
This dish is all about balance: salty meets sweet, creamy meets crisp. And let’s be honest, anything with bacon in it is already a win.
The Ingredients:
6 cups fresh broccoli florets (chopped into bite-sized pieces)
½ small red onion, finely diced
8 slices bacon, cooked crisp and crumbled
1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
½ cup sunflower seeds (optional, but highly recommended)
½ cup dried cranberries or raisins (optional for a little sweet surprise)
The Creamy Tangy Dressing:
¾ cup Miracle Whip
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1½ tablespoons sugar (adjust to your sweet tooth)
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon Nature’s Seasoning (or more if your ancestors whisper)
Pinch of black pepper
Let’s Make It!
Sizzle & Crumble. Start with the bacon. Cook it until crisp, then crumble and try not to eat it all before the salad's done.
Mix the Base. In a big bowl, toss together broccoli, red onion, cheddar cheese, and the bacon. Add sunflower seeds and cranberries if you’re feeling fancy.
Whip That Dressing. In a smaller bowl, mix the Miracle Whip, vinegar, sugar, onion powder, seasoning, and black pepper until it’s silky and smooth.
Combine & Chill. Pour the dressing over the broccoli mix and stir until every floret is kissed with creamy goodness. Cover and chill for at least 30 minutes, and overnight if you want the flavors to really fall in love.
Angelia’s Tip:
This salad tastes even better the next day. It’s one of those dishes that’s humble, but unforgettable — just like the women who raised us.
Try it, tag us, and let us know how you’re serving it up this summer.
#FromTheSoulfulKitchen #HopeEats #BroccoliBaconGoodness
