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Classic Broccoli Bacon Salad with Raisins and Cheddar Cheese

This Classic Broccoli Bacon Salad with raisins and cheddar cheese is the perfect balance of sweet, savory, creamy, and crunchy. Packed with fresh broccoli, smoky bacon, juicy raisins, tart cranberries, and sharp cheddar, it’s an easy side dish that everyone will love. Ideal for parties, potlucks, picnics, or barbecues, it comes together in just 20 minutes!

Why You’ll Love This Salad

  • Quick and simple to make with everyday ingredients.
  • A crowd-pleasing recipe that’s great year-round.
  • Full of flavor – smoky bacon, sweet raisins, tangy cranberries, and sharp cheddar.
  • A delicious way to enjoy broccoli with a bit of indulgence.

Ingredients

For the Salad:

  • 1 head broccoli – leaves trimmed, cut into bite-size florets
  • 8 slices bacon – cooked, drained, and crumbled
  • ½ cup red onion – finely chopped
  • ¼ cup raisins
  • ¼ cup dried cranberries
  • 8 oz sharp cheddar cheese – cut into small cubes

For the Creamy Dressing:

  • ¾ cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tbsp white vinegar
  • ¼ cup sugar
  • Salt & black pepper – to taste

How to Make Broccoli Bacon Salad

1. Prepare the Broccoli

Wash and trim the broccoli head. Cut into small florets and pat dry with paper towels. (Optional: blanch florets in boiling water for 2–3 minutes for a softer texture, then drain and cool.)

2. Combine the Salad

In a large mixing bowl, combine broccoli florets, crumbled bacon, chopped onion, raisins, cranberries, and cubed cheddar.

3. Make the Dressing

In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, vinegar, and sugar until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.

4. Toss and Chill

Pour dressing over the salad and toss until well coated. For best flavor, refrigerate for 1–2 hours before serving.

Tips & Variations

  • Cheese: Use block cheddar cut into cubes for better texture than shredded cheese.
  • Dressing swap: Replace half the mayo with sour cream or Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
  • Fruits: Balance sweetness by mixing raisins with tart dried cranberries.
  • Make-ahead: Prepare salad up to a day ahead. Add dressing just before serving for the freshest taste.
  • Serving: Great as a BBQ side, picnic salad, or holiday potluck dish.

Nutrition (per serving, approx.)

  • Calories: 342
  • Fat: 27g
  • Carbs: 15g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 8g
  • Protein: 9g
  • Vitamin C: 55mg (67% DV)
  • Calcium: 196mg (20% DV)

Final Thoughts

This Broccoli Bacon Salad with Raisins and Cheddar Cheese is a classic for a reason. It’s crunchy, creamy, sweet, and savory – the ultimate side dish that never goes out of style. Whether for a casual weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, this salad is always a hit!