If you're after a versatile side dish that works year-round, broccoli salad is a crowd-pleasing favourite. With crisp broccoli, savoury bacon, and a creamy dressing to bring it all together, it brings a fresh crunch and a pop of colour to your table.

This version comes from Ryman resident Jo, who’s shared one of her go-to recipes with us. At Jo and husband Ian's townhouse in Kevin Hickman Village, there's usually something delicious being prepared - and when they visit, grandkids Harvey and Mia love helping grandma in the 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 dishes that pair beautifully with broccoli salad.

• Serve with grilled sausages or pork chops for a fresh contrast.
• Try with BBQ ribs or pulled pork as the tangy dressing provides a nice contrast to smoky, saucy meats.
• Baked salmon or trout – the salad complements the rich fish without overpowering it.
• 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.