Name: Amish Broccoli Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Amish
Ingredients: 2 cups broccoli florets; 2 cups cauliflower florets; 1 small red onion; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 6 slices crispy bacon; 1⁄2 cup dried cranberries; 1⁄3 cup sunflower seeds; 1 cup mayonnaise; 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar; 2 tablespoons granulated sugar

Creamy, crunchy, sweet, and tangy all at once, Amish Broccoli Salad is the kind of dish that turns even broccoli skeptics into believers. Packed with crispy bacon, shredded cheddar, red onions, and a touch of sweetness from dried cranberries, it’s a bold and comforting salad that steals the show at picnics and potlucks.

This salad shines with contrasts—cool florets of fresh broccoli and cauliflower paired with a rich mayonnaise-based dressing that gets just the right zing from apple cider vinegar. It’s rustic, hearty, and simple in the best way. If you’re craving a salad that’s low effort but high reward, this is the one to whip up.

Why You’ll Love This Amish Broccoli Salad

This is the kind of recipe that feels like it came straight from a handwritten cookbook passed down through generations. It’s a no-fuss, everyday kind of dish that’s secretly brilliant in its balance of flavors. The salty crunch from the bacon, the bite from the onions, the creaminess of the dressing—they all come together in harmony. Best of all, it’s easy to make ahead and tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge.

What Kind of Bacon Should I Use?

Thick-cut bacon works beautifully here because it holds up in texture and gives you those crave-worthy chewy bites. But you can really use any bacon you love. Hickory-smoked adds depth, while applewood lends a little sweetness. Even turkey bacon can work if you’re aiming for a lighter twist. Just make sure it’s cooked until crispy—that crunch matters.

Ingredients for the Amish Broccoli Salad

This salad leans on classic ingredients you probably already have. Each one brings a unique texture or flavor that makes the whole dish sing.

Broccoli florets
Cauliflower florets
Red onion
Shredded cheddar cheese
Crispy bacon
Dried cranberries
Sunflower seeds
Mayonnaise
Apple cider vinegar
Granulated sugar

How To Make the Amish Broccoli Salad

Step 1: Prep the Veggies

Rinse the broccoli and cauliflower and chop them into bite-sized florets. Thinly slice the red onion. Add all to a large mixing bowl.

Step 2: Mix the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust for your preferred sweetness or tang.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

Add shredded cheddar, bacon crumbles, sunflower seeds, and dried cranberries to the bowl of veggies. Pour the dressing over the top and toss everything until well coated.

Step 4: Chill and Serve

Let the salad chill in the fridge for at least an hour to let the flavors meld. Give it one last toss before serving.

How to Serve and Store Amish Broccoli Salad

This salad makes a generous bowl that serves about 8 people as a side. It’s perfect for gatherings, but also just as lovely for a weekday lunch. Once mixed, keep it refrigerated in an airtight container and it will stay fresh for 3 to 4 days. If you’re prepping ahead for a party, you can mix the dressing and chop the vegetables a day in advance, then combine them a couple of hours before serving.

What to Serve With Amish Broccoli Salad?

Grilled Chicken Thighs

Juicy and smoky, they pair perfectly with the creamy tang of the salad.

BBQ Ribs

The richness of ribs is balanced by the fresh crunch in every bite of broccoli.

Cornbread

That soft, slightly sweet bread is ideal for soaking up extra dressing.

Baked Potatoes

Fluffy and hearty, these make for a comfort-packed plate alongside the salad.

Fried Catfish

A Southern twist that works beautifully with the sweet-savory profile of the salad.

Turkey Sandwiches

The salad works well as a fresh side to your favorite deli-style sandwich.

Deviled Eggs

Bring both to a potluck and they’ll vanish faster than you expect.

Herby Chicken Meatball Bowl

Light and herby meets creamy and crunchy—a wholesome lunch idea Herby Chicken Meatball Bowl

Want More Salad Ideas with Crunch?

If you love this hearty Amish Broccoli Salad, here are some other crunchy and creamy ideas to try next:

Classic Caprese Salad Recipe for something lighter and tomato-packed.
Delicious Ooey Gooey Mac and Cheese when you’re in the mood for comfort in a bowl.
No Peek Chicken Casserole if you want a full cozy dinner to pair with your salad.
Crispy Jalapeno Popper Egg Rolls for a crunchy, cheesy sidekick.
Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta as a vibrant, veggie-forward companion.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest salad board so you can come back to it anytime.

I’d love to know if you added anything fun to yours. Did you toss in raisins or switch out the cheese? Maybe a dash of Dijon in the dressing? Share your tweaks in the comments!

Explore more healthy and creamy salad ideas over on Janet Dishes on Pinterest where you can scroll and save your favorites for later.

Conclusion

Amish Broccoli Salad is a recipe that proves the power of simple ingredients coming together. It’s nostalgic, satisfying, and full of flavor—a salad that truly earns its place on the table every time. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week, this one’s going to hit all the right notes.