This Broccoli Salad is a perfect combination of crunchy, savory, and sweet flavors, making it a refreshing and nutritious side dish. With fresh broccoli florets, crumbled bacon, sunflower seeds, and sharp cheddar cheese, all tossed in a creamy, slightly tangy dressing, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a side to your favorite meal.
A Delicious Balance of Flavors
The sweetness of dried cranberries (or raisins) complements the savory bacon and cheddar cheese, while the sunflower seeds add a satisfying crunch. Tossed with a simple yet creamy dressing, this salad is easy to make and even easier to enjoy. It’s a versatile dish that brings both flavor and nutrition to the table.
- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Chill time: 1 hour
- Serving: 6-8 people
- Equipment: Large salad bowl, small bowl
Recipe Title: Broccoli Salad
Ingredients:
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/2 cup sunflower seeds
- 1/2 cup raisins or dried cranberries
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
Dressing:
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
Directions:
- Prepare the Salad Base: In a large salad bowl, combine the chopped broccoli florets, finely chopped red onion, crumbled bacon, sunflower seeds, raisins (or dried cranberries), and shredded cheddar cheese.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sugar, and apple cider vinegar until smooth. This dressing will add a perfect balance of creamy, sweet, and tangy flavors to the salad.
- Dress the Salad: Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture and toss well to ensure all the ingredients are evenly coated with the creamy dressing.
- Chill the Salad: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least one hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and the broccoli to absorb the dressing.
- Serve Chilled: Serve this broccoli salad chilled as a refreshing, crunchy side dish that’s perfect for any gathering.
A Fresh and Satisfying Dish
This Broccoli Salad is a delightful combination of textures and flavors, making it an ideal addition to any meal. Whether you’re serving it as a side at a barbecue or as a healthy option for lunch, the crispness of the broccoli paired with the creamy dressing and savory mix-ins will have everyone coming back for more. Enjoy this vibrant and delicious salad at your next gathering!