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Crispy Broccoli Salad with Bacon Crunch

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A quick and easy side dish featuring fresh broccoli, crispy bacon, and a creamy tangy dressing, perfect for potlucks and family gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups broccoli florets, washed and chopped into bite-sized pieces
  • 6–8 slices bacon, cooked until crispy and chopped
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
  • 1/4 cup sunflower seeds, toasted (optional)
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/3 cup raisins or dried cranberries
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Place 6-8 slices of bacon in a cold skillet over medium heat. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, flipping occasionally, until crispy and golden brown. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease, then chop into bite-sized pieces.
  2. While bacon cooks, rinse 4 cups of fresh broccoli florets and pat dry. Chop into small, bite-sized pieces.
  3. In the same skillet (wipe clean or use a dry pan), toast 1/4 cup sunflower seeds over medium heat for 3-4 minutes, stirring often until golden and fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside.
  4. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon honey, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Adjust seasoning as needed.
  5. In a large mixing bowl, combine chopped broccoli, diced red onion, shredded cheddar cheese, raisins or dried cranberries, toasted sunflower seeds, and crispy bacon pieces.
  6. Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently but thoroughly until everything is evenly coated.
  7. Let the salad sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld and broccoli to soak up the dressing without losing crunch.

Notes

Save a tablespoon of bacon fat for extra flavor if desired. Dry broccoli thoroughly after washing to maintain crunch. For a creamier salad, add more mayonnaise or a splash of buttermilk. Bacon can be baked in the oven as an alternative cooking method. Store bacon separately to keep it crispy.

Nutrition

Keywords: broccoli salad, bacon salad, crispy broccoli, side dish, potluck recipe, easy salad, bacon crunch

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