Creamy Broccoli Salad with Bacon, Red Onion, Raisins, and Almonds Recipe

I can’t tell you how many times this Creamy Broccoli Salad with Bacon, Red Onion, Raisins, and Almonds Recipe has saved me at potlucks and casual family dinners. It’s the kind of dish that gets devoured quickly because it strikes that perfect balance between crunchy, sweet, tangy, and savory. Every bite surprises you—the crisp broccoli with salty bacon, the pop of sweetness from raisins, and the satisfying crunch of almonds rolled together in a creamy, slightly tangy dressing.

What makes this Creamy Broccoli Salad with Bacon, Red Onion, Raisins, and Almonds Recipe really special is how easy it is to whip up but still manages to wow guests every time. It’s a great side dish for warm-weather barbecues or as a bright counterpoint to heavier mains during the cooler months. Trust me, once you try it, this salad will become a staple in your recipe rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Creamy Broccoli Salad with Bacon, Red Onion, Raisins, and Almonds Recipe plays a key role — from the crispy bacon to the crunchy almonds. I’ll share simple tips so you know what to look for while shopping and prepping to get the best results.

• Bacon: Use thick-cut bacon if you can; it holds its crispiness better and adds great smoky flavor.
• Fresh broccoli: Opt for firm, bright green heads—smaller florets tend to work best for salad bites.
• Red onion: Choose a small, mild onion so its bite doesn’t overpower the salad’s balance.
• Raisins: Look for plump, fresh raisins, preferably seedless to keep every bite smooth and sweet.
• Sliced almonds: Toast them lightly if you like an extra nuttiness; it really elevates the texture.
• Mayonnaise: I use a good-quality mayo for creaminess, but you could try light or vegan mayo if you prefer.
• White sugar: It adds just the right amount of sweetness; you can adjust this to taste.
• White wine vinegar: Adds a gentle tang that brightens the dressing without being too sharp.

Variations

I love how versatile this Creamy Broccoli Salad with Bacon, Red Onion, Raisins, and Almonds Recipe is, so feel free to make it your own by swapping or adding a few ingredients. Don’t hesitate to experiment; I’ve found some tweaks that really make it shine!

• Swap raisins for dried cranberries: I’ve made this with cranberries for a tart twist that adds depth, especially in fall.
• Use walnuts instead of almonds: When I don’t have almonds, walnuts give a lovely buttery crunch.
• Add shredded cheddar cheese: For an indulgent touch, a bit of cheese changes the flavor profile nicely.
• Make it lighter: Mix half mayonnaise, half Greek yogurt for a fresher, tangier dressing that still feels creamy.
• Bacon alternatives: Try crispy turkey bacon for a leaner option that still delivers smoky flavor.

How to Make Creamy Broccoli Salad with Bacon, Red Onion, Raisins, and Almonds Recipe

Step 1: Prepare and Crisp the Bacon

Start by getting that bacon nice and crisp—this is crucial because it adds a crunchy, salty punch that contrasts beautifully with the other textures. I usually cook mine in a skillet over medium heat until the fat renders out and the slices are golden. Then, drain them on paper towels and crumble into bite-sized pieces. Pro tip: Save some bacon fat to lightly toss your broccoli before combining everything—it adds a layer of smoky goodness that is irresistible.

Step 2: Chop and Prep Your Veggies and Mix-Ins

While your bacon cools, cut the broccoli into small, manageable florets. The key is to keep all the pieces bite-sized for easy eating. Slice the red onion fairly thin so it blends without shouting, and measure out your raisins and sliced almonds. If you like, toast those almonds lightly in a dry pan to bring out a richer flavor—just keep an eye on them so they don’t burn!

Step 3: Whip Up the Creamy Dressing

In a bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, white sugar, and white wine vinegar until the sugar dissolves and the dressing is smooth. Taste it as you go—this dressing should be creamy with a balanced sweetness and a little tang. If you prefer it a bit sharper, add a splash more vinegar, or if sweeter, a pinch more sugar. This step is where you can really personalize the salad’s flavor.

Step 4: Combine and Chill

In a large mixing bowl, toss together the broccoli, red onion, raisins, almonds, and crumbled bacon. Pour the dressing over and mix until everything is evenly coated. For best results, refrigerate the salad for at least an hour before serving—this lets the flavors meld and the broccoli soften just enough to be tender without losing its crunch. Patience here really pays off!

How to Serve Creamy Broccoli Salad with Bacon, Red Onion, Raisins, and Almonds Recipe

Garnishes

I usually sprinkle a few extra toasted almonds and some freshly cracked black pepper on top for an impressive finishing touch. Sometimes, I like adding a little chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness that brightens the whole plate. These simple garnishes make it look inviting and add subtle contrasts to the flavor.

Side Dishes

This creamy broccoli salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or pork chops for a balanced meal. It also shines alongside barbecue ribs or burgers, offering a fresh, crunchy side that cuts through the richness. And trust me, it’s perfect for picnic spreads or potluck tables—it’s always one of the first dishes to disappear!

Creative Ways to Present

For holiday gatherings, I like serving this salad in hollowed-out bread bowls or colorful mini bell peppers to add some fun flair. Another time, I layered it in a clear glass trifle bowl for a party, which showed off all the vibrant ingredients and got everyone asking for the recipe. The creamy broccoli salad is a dish that looks as good as it tastes when you get a little creative.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After making a big batch of this Creamy Broccoli Salad with Bacon, Red Onion, Raisins, and Almonds Recipe, I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It keeps well for up to 3 days. Just give it a quick stir before serving because the dressing might settle or thicken a bit, but the flavors deepen deliciously overnight.

Freezing

I don’t recommend freezing this salad since the mayo-based dressing and fresh broccoli don’t maintain their texture well after thawing. You’ll lose the crispness and end up with a mushy texture, which is a bummer for such a crunchy salad.

Reheating

This salad is best served cold or at room temperature, so no reheating needed. If you forget to chill it, just pop it in the fridge for 20-30 minutes before serving to bring all the flavors together and firm up the texture.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Broccoli Salad with Bacon, Red Onion, Raisins, and Almonds Recipe holds a special place in my heart because it’s one of those dishes that brings people together with its irresistible flavors and textures. It’s simple, refreshing, and satisfying all at once—perfect for sharing with friends or just enjoying as a bright side for your meal. I can’t wait for you to try it and hear how it becomes your new go-to salad too!

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