This timeless classic, Broccoli Salad with Bacon and Almonds, has delighted taste buds for generations, consistently earning its place as a cherished favorite. Featuring a perfectly balanced sweet and tangy dressing, combined with a delightful medley of interesting textures and flavors, this salad is an absolute winner year-round. It’s the kind of dish that disappears quickly at any gathering, always leaving guests craving more!

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The Ultimate Guide to Classic Broccoli Salad with Bacon and Almonds

There’s a compelling reason why this Broccoli Salad with Bacon and Almonds remains a staple at everything from casual summer BBQs and festive holiday meals to bustling potlucks and intimate family dinners: it is simply irresistible. This isn’t just any salad; it’s a culinary masterpiece that expertly balances crunch, creaminess, tanginess, and a touch of sweetness. The vibrant green broccoli florets are perfectly complemented by the savory crispness of bacon, the delightful chew of toasted almonds, the juicy burst of mandarin oranges, and the subtle bite of thinly sliced red onion. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, creating a symphony of textures and flavors in every forkful.

What truly sets this classic broccoli salad apart is its incredible versatility and convenience. It’s an ideal make-ahead dish, perfect for busy hosts or those planning a meal in advance. In fact, this salad tastes even better after it has had a few hours to chill in the refrigerator, allowing the rich, sweet, and tangy dressing to thoroughly meld with and tenderize the broccoli. This marinating time transforms the ingredients, intensifying the overall flavor profile and ensuring a cohesive, delicious experience. Whether you’re looking for a refreshing summer side or a hearty addition to a holiday spread, this easy broccoli salad recipe is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser that everyone will devour.

Key Ingredients for the Perfect Broccoli Salad

Crafting the best broccoli salad begins with selecting fresh, high-quality ingredients. Each component contributes to the salad’s distinctive flavor and satisfying texture. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need and some tips for selection:

• Fresh Broccoli Florets: The star of our salad! You’ll need approximately 8 cups of bite-sized florets, which usually translates to about 2 large or 4 small broccoli crowns. Don’t discard the tender parts of the stems; they can be peeled and finely chopped for added crunch and to minimize waste. Look for firm, deep green heads without yellowing or soft spots.
• Crispy Bacon: This adds a fantastic savory, smoky, and salty crunch that elevates the entire dish. Use high-quality bacon and cook it until it’s perfectly crisp, then crumble it into small pieces. The rendered bacon fat is usually not used in the salad itself, but can be saved for other cooking.
• Canned Mandarin Oranges: These bright, sweet, and juicy segments provide a wonderful burst of citrus and a soft texture that contrasts beautifully with the crunchier elements. Ensure they are thoroughly drained before adding them to the salad to prevent excess moisture. You can find them in the canned fruit section of your grocery store.
• Toasted Sliced Almonds: Almonds bring a delightful nutty flavor and a satisfying crunch. Toasting them briefly enhances their flavor and aroma significantly. Sliced almonds are preferred for their delicate texture, which blends well with the other ingredients without being too overwhelming.
• Thinly Sliced Red Onion: Red onion adds a touch of sharpness and a subtle peppery bite that cuts through the richness of the dressing and bacon. Slicing it very thinly is key to ensuring its flavor is present but not overpowering. For a milder onion flavor, you can soak the slices in cold water for 10-15 minutes before draining and adding to the salad.

For the Irresistible Sweet and Tangy Dressing

The dressing is the heart of this broccoli salad, binding all the flavors together with its creamy, sweet, and tangy profile. This homemade dressing is remarkably easy to prepare and far superior to store-bought alternatives.

• Large Eggs: Two large eggs form the base of our cooked dressing, providing richness and helping to thicken it into a luxurious consistency.
• Granulated White Sugar: Essential for balancing the tanginess of the vinegar and mustard. The sugar contributes to the signature sweet profile that makes this salad so addictive.
• White Wine Vinegar: This is our primary source of tanginess. White wine vinegar offers a bright, clean acidity that complements the sweetness and savory elements beautifully. Apple cider vinegar can be a suitable substitute if white wine vinegar isn’t available, offering a slightly fruitier tang.
• Water: Used to adjust the consistency of the dressing as it cooks, ensuring it’s smooth and pourable before the mayo is added.
• Cornstarch: A vital thickening agent for the cooked portion of the dressing. It helps achieve that perfect, glossy, and creamy texture without being too heavy.
• Mustard Powder: Adds a subtle piquancy and depth of flavor to the dressing, enhancing the overall complexity without making it taste distinctly like mustard. It’s a secret ingredient that rounds out the flavor profile.
• Mayonnaise: Once the cooked base has cooled, mayonnaise is whisked in to add a rich creaminess and smooth texture. Use your favorite brand; full-fat mayo will yield the creamiest result, but light mayo can also be used for a slightly healthier option.

Step-by-Step Guide: How To Make The Best Broccoli Salad with Bacon and Almonds

Creating this delicious broccoli salad is a straightforward process, even for novice cooks. Follow these detailed steps to ensure a perfect balance of flavors and textures every time.

1. Prepare the Broccoli: Begin by thoroughly washing your fresh broccoli crowns under cold running water. Shake them dry to remove excess moisture. Then, carefully cut the crowns into small, uniform, bite-sized florets. If you plan to use the tender stems, peel them to remove the tough outer layer and chop them into small, manageable chunks. Uniform pieces ensure even coating and a consistent texture in every bite.
2. Cook the Bacon to Perfection: In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until it becomes wonderfully crisp and golden brown. This usually takes about 5-8 minutes, depending on the thickness of your bacon. Once cooked, transfer the crispy bacon strips to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess grease. Allow it to cool slightly, then chop or crumble it into small, savory bits.
3. Toast the Almonds: Toasting the sliced almonds is a crucial step that significantly enhances their nutty flavor and adds an irresistible aroma. You can do this in a dry skillet over medium-low heat, stirring frequently, or spread them on a baking sheet and toast them in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C). Watch them very closely, as almonds can burn quickly. Toast until they are lightly golden brown and fragrant, usually 3-5 minutes on the stovetop or 5-7 minutes in the oven. Remove from heat immediately and let them cool.
4. Drain the Mandarin Oranges: Open the can of mandarin orange segments and pour them into a colander. Allow them to drain thoroughly, shaking gently to remove as much syrup as possible. Excess liquid can thin out your dressing, so proper draining is essential.

Crafting the Signature Sweet and Tangy Dressing

The homemade dressing is what truly makes this broccoli salad shine. It’s a cooked dressing that develops a rich, complex flavor and creamy texture.

1. Combine Dressing Ingredients (Pre-Mayonnaise): In a small, heavy-bottomed skillet or saucepan, combine the eggs, granulated sugar, white wine vinegar, water, cornstarch, and mustard powder. Whisk these ingredients together until smooth, ensuring the cornstarch is fully dissolved to prevent lumps.
2. Cook and Thicken the Dressing: Place the skillet over medium heat and begin whisking constantly. Continue to whisk as the mixture heats up and thickens. This process usually takes about 5-7 minutes. The dressing will become thick and bubbly, similar to a custard or a thin pudding. Once it reaches this consistency, immediately remove it from the heat to prevent scorching.
3. Cool the Dressing: Transfer the hot dressing to a heatproof bowl if you prefer, or simply leave it in the skillet. Allow it to cool on the counter for at least 30 minutes, or until it’s cool enough to touch. This cooling step is vital before adding the mayonnaise.
4. Mix in the Mayonnaise: Once the cooked dressing base is completely cool (or at least cool to the touch), add the mayonnaise. Whisk it in thoroughly until the dressing is smooth, creamy, and uniform in texture. Taste and adjust for sweetness or tanginess if desired.

Assembling Your Delicious Broccoli Salad

With all your components prepared, it’s time to bring your salad together for optimal flavor development.

1. Combine Broccoli and Dressing for Marination: In a large mixing bowl, combine the prepared broccoli florets with the cooled and mayonnaise-infused dressing. Toss everything gently but thoroughly, ensuring all the broccoli is well coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 2 hours before serving. This crucial marinating time allows the broccoli to slightly soften and absorb the delicious flavors of the dressing, making the salad even more enjoyable.
2. Add Toppings Just Before Serving: Just before you’re ready to serve, retrieve the salad from the refrigerator. Sprinkle the crumbled bacon, toasted sliced almonds, drained mandarin orange segments, and thinly sliced red onion evenly over the top of the salad. Toss gently to distribute, or leave them on top for a visually appealing presentation. Adding these fresh toppings right before serving ensures maximum crunch and vibrant flavor.
3. Serve and Enjoy! Present your beautifully assembled Classic Broccoli Salad with Bacon and Almonds. Watch as your guests eagerly gobble up this delightful side dish!

Chef Jenn’s Expert Tips for the Best Broccoli Salad

Elevate your broccoli salad game with these insightful tips and tricks from Chef Jenn, ensuring your dish is always a standout:

• Strategic Prep-Ahead: Maximize convenience by prepping components in advance. The broccoli florets can be cut and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Cook and crumble the bacon, toast the almonds, slice the onion, and drain the oranges up to 2-3 days beforehand. The dressing itself can also be made and stored in the fridge for up to 5 days. Keep all components separate until assembly to maintain their optimal texture.
• The Magic of Marination: Do not skip the marinating step! This salad truly transforms when the broccoli has a chance to sit in the dressing. The acidity of the vinegar and the richness of the mayo work together to slightly tenderize the broccoli, infusing it with flavor and creating a more harmonious blend. Aim for at least 2 hours, but an overnight chill is even better if time allows.
• Customizing Nuts: If you’re not a fan of almonds, or simply want to try something new, feel free to substitute or omit them entirely. Toasted pecans, walnuts, cashews, or even sunflower seeds make excellent alternatives, each adding its own unique flavor and crunch. Always toast your chosen nuts for enhanced taste!
• Creative Add-ins and Variations: This recipe is incredibly adaptable! Experiment with these additions to make the salad your own:
  • Dried Fruits: Add dried cranberries, raisins, or chopped dried apricots for extra sweetness and chewiness.
  • Cheese: Shredded sharp cheddar cheese or crumbled feta cheese can add a delightful salty tang.
  • Other Veggies: Finely chopped cauliflower, shredded carrots, or even some thinly sliced red bell pepper can boost the vegetable content and color.
  • Spice It Up: A pinch of red pepper flakes in the dressing can add a subtle kick.
• Making it Vegetarian: Easily adapt this recipe for vegetarian guests by simply omitting the bacon. The salad remains incredibly flavorful and satisfying even without it, offering a wonderful plant-based side dish.
• Lighter Dressing Option: For a slightly healthier version, consider using a light mayonnaise. You can also experiment with reducing the sugar slightly or replacing a portion of the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt for added creaminess and a protein boost, though this will slightly alter the classic flavor profile.
• Preventing a Soggy Salad: Ensure your broccoli is thoroughly dry after washing to prevent a watery dressing. Also, remember to drain the mandarin oranges completely. Add the crispy toppings (bacon, almonds, onion) just before serving to maintain their crunch.

Recommended Pairings for Your Meal

Make It A Complete Meal: Serving Suggestions

The beauty of this Classic Broccoli Salad with Bacon and Almonds lies in its incredible versatility as a side dish. Its balanced flavors and textures make it an excellent accompaniment to a wide variety of main courses and perfect for countless occasions. Here are some ideas to help you build a complete and satisfying meal:

• Perfect BBQ Partner: This salad is a quintessential summer side. It pairs phenomenally with anything hot off the grill – think juicy grilled ribeye steaks, tender chicken breasts, classic hamburgers, hot dogs, or smoky ribs. The refreshing crunch of the broccoli and the sweet-tangy dressing provide a perfect counterpoint to rich, grilled meats.
• Holiday Feast Essential: Elevate your holiday buffet or special occasion meal with this vibrant salad. It complements roasted meats beautifully, such as smoked pork rack, roasted turkey, ham, or even elegant lamb chops. Its make-ahead nature is a huge bonus during busy holiday preparations.
• Weeknight Dinner Side: Don’t reserve this salad just for special events! It’s a fantastic addition to simple weeknight meals. Serve it alongside baked chicken, pan-seared fish, or as a fresh accompaniment to a hearty sandwich, like a delicious canned chicken salad sandwich.
• Potluck and Picnic Favorite: Its ability to travel well and its universal appeal make it an undisputed champion at potlucks, picnics, and casual gatherings. It holds up well for several hours, making it worry-free for transporting and serving.
• Pair with Seafood: The bright, fresh flavors of this salad are an ideal match for various seafood dishes, including grilled salmon, shrimp, or a simple baked white fish.

Storage Guidelines

Proper storage ensures you can enjoy your delicious Broccoli Salad leftovers, though it’s often so popular there might not be any! Here’s how to best store it:

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover Broccoli Salad with Bacon and Almonds in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will maintain its best quality for 1-2 days. While it’s safe to eat for a bit longer, the broccoli’s crispness and the bacon’s crunch may diminish over time.
• Optimal Freshness: For best results, if you anticipate having leftovers, consider storing a portion of the dressing and the crispy toppings (bacon, almonds, red onion) separately. You can then assemble individual servings with fresh toppings just before eating to maximize texture and flavor.
• Freezing Not Recommended: This salad recipe will not freeze well. The high water content in the broccoli, the creamy mayonnaise-based dressing, and the crisp toppings will all suffer significant textural changes upon thawing, resulting in a soggy and unappealing consistency. It’s best enjoyed fresh and within a couple of days of preparation.

Step-by-Step Visual Process

Want More Delicious and Easy Recipes?

If you’ve enjoyed this delightful Broccoli Salad with Bacon and Almonds, you’re in for a treat! Chef Jenn has a wealth of other fantastic recipes that are just as easy to make and bursting with flavor. Explore these highly recommended dishes to expand your culinary repertoire:

• Smoked Asparagus
• Over the Top Chili
• Smoked Cream Cheese
• Hearty Lobster Chowder
• Savory Smoked Shotgun Shells