Ingredients:

• 8 slices bacon
• 2 heads fresh broccoli, chopped into bite-sized pieces
• 1 ½ cups sharp Cheddar cheese, shredded
• ½ large red onion, chopped
• ⅔ cup mayonnaise
• ¼ cup red wine vinegar
• ⅛ cup white sugar
• 2 teaspoons ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice

Making It Step by Step:

1. Cook the Bacon:
   • In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon slices until crispy, about 6-8 minutes. Turn occasionally for even cooking. Once done, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess fat. After it cools, crumble the bacon into bite-sized pieces.
2. Prepare the Broccoli:
   • While the bacon is cooking, prepare the broccoli. Chop the broccoli heads into bite-sized pieces. For a more tender texture, you can blanch the broccoli in boiling water for 1-2 minutes, then immediately transfer to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Drain well and pat dry with paper towels.
3. Prepare the Dressing:
   • In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, white sugar, black pepper, salt, and lemon juice until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
4. Combine Ingredients:
   • In a large bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, shredded Cheddar cheese, chopped red onion, and crumbled bacon.
5. Add the Dressing:
   • Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture. Toss everything together gently until the broccoli and other ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
6. Chill and Serve:
   • Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and the salad to chill.

Cooking Tips:

• Bacon Crispiness: Ensure that the bacon is crispy before crumbling to avoid a greasy texture in the salad. You can also cook the bacon in the oven at 400°F (200°C) on a rack to get it evenly crispy without much mess.
• Broccoli Preparation: If you prefer a softer texture, blanching the broccoli is a good option. For a crunchier salad, you can skip the blanching step and use raw broccoli.
• Dressing Consistency: If the dressing is too thick after refrigeration, you can thin it with a little milk or additional red wine vinegar to reach your desired consistency.
• Customization: Feel free to customize the salad by adding other ingredients such as sunflower seeds, dried cranberries, or diced apples for extra texture and flavor.

Storage:

• Refrigeration: Store the broccoli salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can be kept for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop as it sits, making it even more delicious the next day.
• Avoid Freezing: It is not recommended to freeze this salad, as the texture of the broccoli and bacon will change upon thawing.

Nutritional Facts (per serving, approximate):

• Calories: 250
• Protein: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Sugars: 5g
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fiber: 3g

FAQs:

1. Can I use a different type of cheese?
   • Yes, you can substitute the sharp Cheddar with another cheese such as Gouda, Monterey Jack, or even a mild Cheddar if you prefer a less sharp flavor.
2. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
   • Yes, this salad can be made ahead of time. It actually tastes better after the flavors have had a chance to meld together, making it a great option for meal prepping or preparing for events.
3. Is there a substitute for mayonnaise?
   • You can use Greek yogurt or a dairy-free mayonnaise alternative if you prefer a lighter or dairy-free option.
4. Can I add more vegetables?
   • Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables such as diced bell peppers, shredded carrots, or even chopped celery to enhance the salad’s flavor and texture.
5. How can I make this salad spicier?
   • To add some heat, you can incorporate a small amount of hot sauce or red pepper flakes into the dressing, or mix in some diced jalapeños or hot peppers with the broccoli.

Conclusion:

Broccoli Salad with Bacon and Cheddar is a wonderfully versatile and flavorful dish that brings together the crispness of fresh broccoli, the richness of sharp cheddar, and the savory crunch of bacon. This recipe is ideal for those looking for a hearty yet easy-to-make salad that can be enjoyed as a side or a light main course. With a creamy, tangy dressing and the ability to customize with additional ingredients, this salad not only satisfies your taste buds but also complements a variety of meals. Whether you’re preparing for a family gathering or just looking for a delicious addition to your weekly meal plan, this Broccoli Salad with Bacon and Cheddar is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and the satisfying crunch with every bite!