Ruby Tuesday Broccoli Salad Recipe

This broccoli salad from Ruby Tuesday is the kind of side dish that always disappears fast!

The secret to making it stand out is blanching the broccoli just enough to take off the raw edge while keeping a little crunch.

I always use real bacon crumbles instead of store-bought bits because the smoky, crispy texture makes all the difference.

A little splash of apple cider vinegar in the dressing adds just the right amount of tang to balance out the creamy sweetness.

Shredded cheddar blends right in with the dressing, coating every bite with that extra layer of richness.

Once it chills for a few hours, the flavors come together, and it’s impossible to stop after just one serving!

How to Make Ruby Tuesday Broccoli Salad

Ingredients

• 4 cups Broccoli (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 1 cup Mayonnaise
• 1 cup Cheddar Cheese (sharp, shredded)
• 8 tbsp Bacon (crumbles)
• 1/4 cup Red Onion (finely chopped)
• 4 tbsp Sugar
• 1/3 cup Water (hot)
• 2 tbsp Apple Cider Vinegar

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Start by washing the broccoli thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt.

Pat it dry with a towel to ensure it’s not soggy.

Step 2:

Cut the broccoli into bite-sized pieces.

Use a sharp knife for clean cuts, removing any excess stems.

Step 3:

Mix the hot water and sugar in a large bowl until the sugar dissolves completely.

Stir in the mayonnaise and apple cider vinegar until you have a smooth dressing.

Step 4:

Add the broccoli, red onion, cheese, and bacon crumbles to the bowl with the dressing.

Toss everything together until well combined and coated.

Step 5:

Allow the salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

This helps enhance the flavors.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Choosing Fresh Broccoli

Always pick bright green broccoli for the best texture and taste, avoiding any yellowing or limp pieces as they tend to be less fresh.

Bacon Preparation

Use thick-cut bacon if possible and cook it until it’s crispy for added crunch and flavor in each bite.

Customizing the Dressing

Feel free to adjust the sweetness by adding more or less sugar based on how you like your dressing.

You can substitute white vinegar if you prefer a slightly different tang to the salad dressing.

Storing Leftovers

Store any remaining salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator and it should stay fresh for up to three days without losing its delicious taste.

Experiment with adding sunflower seeds or sliced almonds for an extra nutty crunch if that’s something you enjoy in your salads.

What to Serve with Ruby Tuesday Broccoli Salad

Grilled Chicken

Pairing broccoli salad with grilled chicken is a match made in heaven.

The smoky flavors complement the creamy and crunchy textures of the salad, adding a satisfying protein boost to your meal.

You can simply season the chicken with some herbs and spices or try a tangy marinade.

Garlic Bread

You can’t go wrong with crispy garlic bread alongside your salad.

It’s great for soaking up any dressing and adds a touch of warmth to the dish.

Serve it fresh from the oven!

Corn on the Cob

A classic side that pairs perfectly is corn on the cob.

The sweetness of the corn enhances the savory notes of the broccoli salad.

Grilling the corn can add an extra layer of flavor; it’s SO good!

Roasted Sweet Potatoes

For something a bit different, try serving roasted sweet potatoes on the side.

They bring a nice balance of sweetness and earthiness that works surprisingly well with the salad.

Cut them into wedges, roast until golden, and watch your guests enjoy this unexpected combo.

Caprese Skewers

Make things interesting with Caprese skewers.

These little bites consist of cherry tomatoes, mozzarella pearls, and fresh basil.

Drizzle with balsamic glaze for a flavor punch that’s refreshing and complements the salad beautifully.

Spicy Chickpeas

For an unconventional side, give spicy roasted chickpeas a try.

They introduce a bit of heat and a protein kick, rounding out the meal nicely.

Simply toss them with your favorite spices and roast until crispy.

Variations and Substitutions

Cheese Choices

You can easily swap out the cheese in the broccoli salad to match your taste.

Some people prefer using sharp cheddar for a classic flavor, while others might enjoy the tang of blue cheese.

Experiment with different cheese types to see which one you like best.

Bacon Alternatives

The bacon in the salad adds a wonderful crunch and salty flavor.

If you’re looking to make it healthier, you can use turkey bacon instead.

You can even try vegetarian bacon options to keep it plant-based.

Nut Selections

This salad can be enhanced with the addition of different nuts.

Almonds or pecans can be used in place of sunflower seeds for a unique twist.

Mixing several types of nuts can also give the salad a delightful texture.

Dressing Adjustments

The dressing usually calls for mayonnaise and sour cream.

You might try using Greek yogurt for a tangy and lighter option.

Don’t hesitate to customize the dressing ingredients to find the version you love best!

How to Store Leftover Ruby Tuesday Broccoli Salad

Storing leftover Ruby Tuesday broccoli salad is simple when you follow a few key steps.

First, transfer the salad into an airtight container to lock in freshness and keep the flavors intact.

Before sealing the container, consider placing a layer of plastic wrap directly on top of the salad. This helps reduce air exposure and keeps the texture just right!

Refrigeration

Place the airtight container in the refrigerator as soon as possible.

Keeping it chilled ensures that the ingredients stay fresh and the flavors meld beautifully.

The salad should remain tasty for up to three days in the fridge.

Keep the Dressing Separate

If you plan to store the salad, consider keeping the dressing separate.

Mixing it just before serving helps prevent the salad from becoming soggy.

This approach works wonders for maintaining the delightful texture we all love!

Portion Control

Dividing the salad into small portions before storing is another handy trick.

It makes it easier to grab just what you need, without disturbing the rest of the salad.

This can be especially helpful if you’re packing it for lunch or a quick meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking Broccoli

You may be tempted to cook the broccoli a bit longer for a softer texture, but that can make the salad mushy.

Aim to keep the broccoli crisp and vibrant, and only cook it briefly to retain its color and crunch.

Using Low-Quality Bacon

Opt for good quality bacon, as it makes a big difference in flavor and texture.

Using pre-packaged or low-quality bacon might result in loss of taste and a less than desirable texture.

Dressing Imbalance

Avoid drenching the salad in dressing, which can overshadow the natural flavors of your ingredients.

Aim for a balanced ratio to enhance, rather than overpower, the salad’s flavors.