Amish Broccoli Salad

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

If you’ve ever had a creamy, crunchy salad that made you crave seconds before you even finished your first bite, there’s a good chance it was Amish Broccoli Salad. This old-fashioned favorite brings together crisp broccoli florets, smoky bacon, sharp red onion, chewy cranberries, and crunchy sunflower seeds, all folded into a creamy-sweet dressing that ties it all together. It’s wholesome, satisfying, and shockingly simple.

Perfect for potlucks, weeknight dinners, or those times you just want something green but also comforting, Amish Broccoli Salad hits the sweet spot of texture and flavor. It’s a dish that never feels like an afterthought—and often steals the show.

Why You’ll Love This Amish Broccoli Salad

This salad is the perfect blend of healthy and indulgent. Broccoli brings fiber and crunch, bacon adds that salty richness, and the dried cranberries offer a pop of tart sweetness. The creamy dressing is a simple mix of pantry staples but feels luxurious with every bite. It holds well in the fridge, so it’s a great make-ahead side.

What Makes This Broccoli Salad So Special?

The Amish version of this classic potluck salad is known for its balanced sweetness and generous use of textures. The dressing leans into a slightly tangy, creamy profile thanks to vinegar and mayo, while the add-ins keep each bite exciting. The secret? Letting it sit for a couple of hours before serving so the flavors can meld.

Ingredients for the Amish Broccoli Salad

This salad may be simple, but each ingredient plays a big role in flavor and texture. Here’s what you’ll need:

Broccoli florets – The crisp, raw foundation of this salad. Chop them small for easier bites and better coating from the dressing.

Bacon – Cooked until crispy and crumbled for a smoky, salty contrast to the sweet elements.

Red onion – Thinly sliced for bite and color. It mellows slightly as the salad rests.

Dried cranberries – These chewy, tart little gems add a welcome burst of sweetness.

Sunflower seeds – For nuttiness and crunch. Roasted and salted are best.

Mayonnaise – The creamy base for the dressing, binding everything together.

Apple cider vinegar – Adds that much-needed tang and keeps the dressing from feeling too heavy.

Granulated sugar – Just a touch to balance the vinegar and enhance the cranberries.

How To Make the Amish Broccoli Salad

Step 1: Prep the Broccoli

Rinse and chop the broccoli florets into small, bite-sized pieces. Make sure they are dry to avoid watering down the dressing.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

Fry your bacon until it’s crisp, then drain on paper towels and crumble once cooled. You can also bake it if you prefer less mess.

Step 3: Mix the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and sugar until smooth.

Step 4: Combine the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the broccoli, red onion, cranberries, sunflower seeds, and bacon. Pour the dressing over and toss until everything is evenly coated.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (2 is better!) to let the flavors come together. Give it a gentle stir before serving.

How to Serve and Store Amish Broccoli Salad

Amish Broccoli Salad serves about 6 people as a side, and it makes a colorful, flavorful addition to any dinner spread. Serve it cold, straight from the fridge, for the best texture. It holds up well for up to 3 days in an airtight container. In fact, some argue it tastes even better on day two.

If making ahead, you can prep all the ingredients and keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to toss everything together.

What to Serve With Amish Broccoli Salad?

Grilled Chicken

Simple grilled chicken pairs beautifully with the creamy crunch of this salad.

Pulled Pork Sandwiches

The sweetness in the salad offsets the savory meat perfectly.

Baked Potatoes

Serve it alongside or even on top for a loaded veggie twist.

Quiche

Add this to a brunch table with a savory quiche and fresh fruit.

BBQ Ribs

A refreshing contrast to sticky, smoky ribs.

Fried Chicken

The acidity and crunch cut through rich, crispy chicken deliciously.

Veggie Burgers

A great way to bring texture and creamy contrast to a plant-based plate.

Want More Salad Ideas with Crunch and Color?

If you loved this Amish Broccoli Salad, here are a few more vibrant and fresh recipes to try next:

• Try this refreshing take with the Marinated Cucumbers, Onions and Tomatoes for a summer classic.
• Add a fruity flair with the Apple Salad that’s just as creamy and satisfying.
• Go all-in on cozy with the Deviled Egg Pasta Salad that’s perfect for picnics.
• Warm up with the creamy comfort of Creamy Kielbasa Gnocchi Soup if you’re craving something heartier.
• Or try the classic creamy delight of Southern Banana Cobbler to end your meal on a sweet note.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest board so you can come back whenever you’re craving it.

Let me know if you gave it your own twist—maybe swapped the sunflower seeds for almonds or added a drizzle of honey to the dressing?

I love seeing how these recipes take on a life of their own. Leave a comment with your version, and let’s keep sharing kitchen inspiration.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting meals on Luna Meals on Pinterest and discover your new go-to for feeling great!

Conclusion

Amish Broccoli Salad is one of those recipes that just belongs on the table. Whether it’s part of a summer BBQ, a cozy Sunday dinner, or your weekly meal prep, it adds freshness, flavor, and a welcome crunch. Simple, classic, and endlessly customizable—this salad proves that broccoli can be the star of any meal.

Print

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?