Looking for a versatile side dish that’s a hit any time of year? Broccoli salad is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. With crisp broccoli, smoky bacon, and a creamy dressing tying it all together, it adds a burst of freshness and colour to any meal.

This recipe comes from Ryman resident Jo, who kindly shared one of her family favourites. In the villa she shares with her husband Ian, something tasty is always on the go – and when their grandchildren, Harvey and Mia, visit, they love lending a hand in grandma’s kitchen.

Ingredients

• 1 broccoli head
• 1 red capsicum
• 1 red onion
• 1 tsp oregano
• 1/2 cup raisins
• 6 slices streaky bacon
• 1/2 cup toasted almonds, or pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds
• 1/2 cup Heinz Seriously Good Mayonnaise
• Juice of one lemon
• Optional: 1 handful of feta cubes

Method

1. Cut broccoli into very fine pieces
2. Add diced capsicum, onion, raisins, and nuts or seeds
3. Fry bacon, cut up and add to salad
4. Combine some of the bacon fat with the mayonnaise and lemon juice
5. Mix mayonnaise mixture through salad ingredients
6. Optional: Add a handful of feta cubes for garnish. 

Some perfect pairings

Below is a selection of different dishes that pair nicely with broccoli salad.

• Serve with grilled sausages or pork chops for a fresh contrast.
• Try with barbeque ribs or pulled pork – the tangy dressing provides a nice contrast to smoky, saucy meats.
• Baked salmon or trout.
• Pair with a rotisserie chicken for an easy weeknight meal.
• For a hearty vegetarian option, substitute the bacon for vegetarian bacon or smoked almonds, and serve with stuffed potatoes.