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Flavorful Broccoli Salad Supreme Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 3.8 from 76 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes (for bacon cooking)
  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: American

Description

A vibrant and crunchy broccoli salad loaded with savory bacon, sharp cheddar, sweet cranberries, nutty sunflower seeds, and a creamy, tangy dressing. This flavorful broccoli salad is perfect as a refreshing side dish for picnics, potlucks, or weekday lunches, offering a delightful combination of textures and tastes.


Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

  • 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
  • 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup diced red onion
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries or raisins
  • 1/2 cup sunflower seeds or chopped walnuts

Dressing Ingredients

  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons honey or sugar
  • Salt and pepper to taste


Instructions

  1. Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the fresh broccoli florets, crumbled cooked bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, diced red onion, dried cranberries or raisins, and sunflower seeds or chopped walnuts to form the base of the salad.
  2. Prepare the Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey (or sugar), and a pinch of salt and pepper until the mixture is smooth and well blended, creating a creamy and tangy dressing.
  3. Dress the Salad: Pour the prepared dressing over the broccoli mixture. Toss everything together thoroughly ensuring each ingredient is evenly coated with the dressing for balanced flavor.
  4. Refrigerate: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld and the broccoli to absorb some of the dressing, enhancing the overall taste.
  5. Serve: Before serving, toss the salad again to redistribute the dressing and flavors evenly. Serve chilled as a refreshing side dish.

Notes

  • For a nut-free version, omit the sunflower seeds or walnuts.
  • You can substitute raisins if cranberries are not available.
  • Adjust the sweetness by using honey or sugar according to your preference.
  • Make sure the bacon is fully cooked and crisp for best texture.
  • This salad can be made a day ahead and kept refrigerated to deepen the flavors.