Amish broccoli salad is a creamy, crunchy, and crave-worthy classic. Made with fresh broccoli florets, crispy bacon, sweet raisins, and red onions—all tossed in a tangy-sweet dressing—it’s the perfect side for potlucks, BBQs, or easy weeknight dinners. This simple salad brings that nostalgic flavor you remember from church gatherings and family reunions.
It’s quick to prep, keeps well, and always disappears fast. One bowl, zero cooking, and 100% flavor!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- 🥬 Crisp texture thanks to raw broccoli
- 🥓 Savory-sweet combo from bacon and raisins
- 🧅 Punchy flavor from red onion and tangy dressing
- ⏱️ Quick and easy—just chop, mix, chill
- 🧊 Make-ahead friendly for stress-free prep
🧂 Ingredients
- 5 cups fresh broccoli florets (chopped bite-size)
- ½ small red onion, finely diced
- ½ cup raisins (or dried cranberries)
- ½ cup sunflower seeds or slivered almonds
- 6–8 slices cooked bacon, chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
For the Dressing:
- ¾ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 2 tbsp sugar or honey
- Salt and black pepper to taste
🥣 Instructions
1. Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together mayo, vinegar, sugar (or honey), salt, and pepper until smooth. Set aside.
2. Assemble the Salad
In a large bowl, combine broccoli, red onion, raisins, seeds, bacon, and cheese (if using).
3. Toss and Chill
Pour the dressing over the broccoli mix and toss until fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
4. Serve Cold
Stir once more before serving. Garnish with extra bacon or seeds, if desired.
💡 Tips for Best Results
- Use fresh, firm broccoli—avoid limp florets
- Dice onion finely to keep the bite subtle
- Cook bacon until super crispy, then cool before chopping
- Let the salad chill at least 30–60 minutes to blend flavors
- Toss just before serving for max crunch
🔄 Variations
- No mayo? Use Greek yogurt or a vegan mayo
- No raisins? Try dried cranberries or chopped dates
- Low-sugar? Swap honey or leave sweetener out entirely
- Nut-free? Use roasted seeds instead of almonds
- Add-ins: Chopped apples, shredded carrots, or cauliflower
❓ FAQs
Can I make Amish broccoli salad ahead of time?
Yes! It actually tastes better after a few hours in the fridge. Just keep the bacon separate if you want it extra crisp.
Do I need to blanch the broccoli?
Nope! Raw broccoli gives the best crunch. If you prefer a softer bite, a 30-second blanch in boiling water works too.
Is it gluten-free?
Yes—as long as your bacon and other add-ins are gluten-free.
Amish Broccoli Salad
Equipment
- Cutting board & knife
- Large mixing bowl
- – Medium bowl for dressing
- – Whisk or spoon
Ingredients
- – 5 cups chopped broccoli
- – ½ small red onion finely diced
- – ½ cup raisins or cranberries
- – ½ cup sunflower seeds or almonds
- – 6–8 slices crispy bacon chopped
- – 1 cup shredded cheddar optional
- **Dressing:**
- – ¾ cup mayo
- – 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- – 2 tbsp sugar or honey
- – Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- Whisk dressing ingredients until smooth.
- In a large bowl, mix broccoli, onion, raisins, seeds, bacon, and cheese.
- Pour in dressing and toss until evenly coated.
- Cover and chill 30+ minutes. Stir and serve cold.
Notes
– Add apple, cauliflower, or carrots for variation
– Great for BBQs, potlucks, or meal prep
🧊 Storage & Make-Ahead
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container up to 3 days
- Make-ahead tip: Keep bacon separate and mix it in right before serving
- Not freezer-friendly due to the creamy dressing and fresh texture