Best 2 Make Ahead Broccoli Salad Recipes

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Broccoli salad is a delicious and healthy dish that is perfect for picnics, potlucks, and summer gatherings. It is typically made with fresh broccoli florets, mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, and other seasonings. While broccoli salad is delicious when made fresh, it can be even tastier if you make it ahead of time and allow the flavors to meld. This article will guide you through the process of making a delicious make-ahead broccoli salad that you can enjoy for days.

Here are our top 2 tried and tested recipes!

MAKE-AHEAD BROCCOLI SALAD



Make-Ahead Broccoli Salad image

Broccoli, onion, raisins, almonds, cheese, and bacon with red wine vinegar dressing combine to make a great favorite at potluck dinners. I've had many requests for this make-ahead recipe.

Provided by Susan Hignight

Categories     Salad     Vegetable Salad Recipes     Broccoli Salad Recipes

Time 8h15m

Yield 12

Number Of Ingredients 9

5 cups broccoli florets
6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
½ cup raisins
½ cup sliced almonds
½ cup shredded Cheddar cheese
⅓ cup finely chopped onion
1 cup mayonnaise
¼ cup white sugar
3 tablespoons red wine vinegar

Steps:

  • Cut broccoli florets into bite-sized pieces. Combine with bacon, raisins, almonds, Cheddar cheese, and onion in a large bowl.
  • Combine mayonnaise, sugar, and red wine vinegar in a small bowl. Pour dressing over the broccoli mixture and mix well.
  • Refrigerate for 8 hours to overnight. Stir again before serving.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 274.1 calories, Carbohydrate 14.8 g, Cholesterol 19.6 mg, Fat 22.1 g, Fiber 2 g, Protein 6.4 g, SaturatedFat 4.5 g, Sodium 292.1 mg, Sugar 9.6 g

MAKE-AHEAD BROCCOLI SALAD



Make-Ahead Broccoli Salad image

My son-in-law is a professional chef, and he shared this original recipe with me last year. The salad is an excellent medley of fresh vegetables and mixed dried fruit. I even make my own fresh bacon bits to toss the mix. -Janice Stoltenow, Lebanon, Missouri

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories     Lunch

Time 15m

Yield 8 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 7

2 bunches broccoli, cut into bite-size pieces (about 6 cups)
1/2 cup mixed dried fruit, chopped
1/2 cup chopped sweet onion
3/4 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup honey
Dash salt
4 bacon strips, cooked and crumbled

Steps:

  • In a large bowl, combine broccoli, dried fruit and onion. In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, honey and salt. Pour over broccoli mixture; toss to coat. Refrigerate, covered, 2 hours or overnight. Just before serving, top with bacon.

Nutrition Facts :

Tips:

  • Choose the right broccoli: Look for broccoli crowns that are deep green in color and have tightly closed florets. Avoid crowns that are yellowing or have brown spots.
  • Prepare the broccoli properly: Cut the broccoli into bite-sized florets and wash them thoroughly. To blanch the broccoli, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the broccoli. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the broccoli is bright green and tender. Immediately remove the broccoli from the boiling water and plunge it into a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process.
  • Use a flavorful dressing: The dressing is what really makes this salad special. Be sure to use a dressing that is tangy, sweet, and savory. A simple vinaigrette made with olive oil, vinegar, Dijon mustard, and honey is a great option. You can also use a store-bought dressing, such as a ranch dressing or a Caesar dressing.
  • Add some crunch: Adding some crunchy elements to the salad will help to add texture and flavor. Some good options include chopped celery, carrots, radishes, or almonds.
  • Make it a meal: This salad can be served as a side dish or as a main course. If you're serving it as a main course, add some cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu to the salad. You can also serve it with a side of bread or rice.

Conclusion:

Make-ahead broccoli salad is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for potlucks, picnics, or busy weeknights. With its crunchy broccoli, flavorful dressing, and optional add-ins, this salad is sure to please everyone at your table. So next time you're looking for a healthy and satisfying salad, give this make-ahead broccoli salad a try.

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