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Crunchy Broccoli Bacon Salad Recipe Easy Homemade Creamy Dressing

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A quick and easy broccoli salad featuring crisp broccoli, smoky bacon, and a homemade creamy dressing with a touch of sweetness and tang. Perfect for potlucks, lunches, or as a side dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups broccoli florets, chopped into bite-sized pieces
  • 8 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
  • ½ small red onion, finely chopped
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup sunflower seeds or sliced almonds, toasted
  • ½ cup raisins or dried cranberries (optional)
  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons honey or sugar
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crisp, about 8-10 minutes, turning as needed. Drain on paper towels and crumble. Alternatively, microwave bacon on a paper towel-lined plate for 4-6 minutes until crisp.
  2. Wash and thoroughly dry broccoli florets, then chop into bite-sized pieces. Finely chop the red onion. Shred cheddar cheese if not pre-shredded.
  3. Toast sunflower seeds or sliced almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently. Let cool.
  4. In a medium bowl or jar, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey (or sugar), Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper. Adjust sweetness or tang to taste.
  5. In a large bowl, combine broccoli, crumbled bacon, red onion, shredded cheddar, toasted seeds, and raisins or dried cranberries.
  6. Pour the creamy dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat evenly, being careful not to overmix to keep broccoli crunchy.
  7. Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Notes

Dry broccoli thoroughly to prevent sogginess. Chill salad for at least 30 minutes before serving for best flavor. Toast seeds or nuts for added flavor. Dressing can be blended for a smoother texture. For vegetarian option, omit bacon and add extra nuts or smoked paprika-seasoned chickpeas.

Nutrition

Keywords: broccoli salad, bacon salad, creamy dressing, easy salad, potluck recipe, crunchy salad, homemade dressing

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