YaYa’s Broccoli Salad
Ingredients
- 1 bunch broccoli separated into florets
- 1/3 cup chopped onion
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 8 bacon strips cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 T. sugar
- 2 T. vinegar
Instructions
- Mix broccoli, onion, raisins and bacon
- In separate bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sugar and vinegar
- Pour over broccoli mixture and toss lightly
- Refrigerate at least 1 hour before serving
- Note: You may add 1 cup chopped tomatoes and 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped, if desired.
Yaya’s Tips for Success
This Broccoli Salad is a Southern potluck staple, packed with fresh, crisp broccoli, savory bacon, sweet raisins, and crunchy sunflower seeds. Tossed in a creamy, tangy dressing, it’s the perfect balance of flavors and textures. It’s easy to make ahead, and the longer it chills, the better it tastes!
To ensure your Broccoli Salad turns out just right, follow these tips:
- Use fresh, crisp broccoli – No need to blanch it! The raw crunch is what makes this salad shine.
- Crisp up the bacon – Cook it until it’s nice and crunchy to add the perfect texture.
- Chill before serving – At least 2 hours in the fridge allows the flavors to meld together.
- Balance the dressing – If you prefer a less sweet salad, reduce the sugar to ¼ cup or use honey instead.
- Toss it well – Make sure everything is evenly coated in that creamy dressing for the best bite.
Yaya’s Customization Ideas
This salad is easy to tweak to suit different tastes. Here are a few ways to mix it up:
- Make it cheesy – Add 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese for extra flavor.
- Go nutty – Swap sunflower seeds for chopped pecans, walnuts, or sliced almonds.
- Switch up the sweetness – Use dried cranberries or chopped dates instead of raisins.
- Lighten it up – Replace half the mayo with Greek yogurt for a tangier, healthier version.
- Add extra crunch – Toss in diced apples or water chestnuts for even more texture.
Yaya’s Original Recipe Card
