Description
A crisp and creamy broccoli salad packed with cheddar cheese, bacon, and a tangy homemade dressing. Perfect as a refreshing side dish for any meal, this salad combines fresh broccoli with savory and crunchy elements for a delightful flavor and texture contrast.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
- 1/3 cup sunflower seeds or chopped almonds (optional)
Dressing
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sugar or honey
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Combine salad ingredients: In a large bowl, add the fresh broccoli florets, finely chopped red onion, shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and sunflower seeds or chopped almonds if using. Gently toss to mix the components evenly.
- Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and sugar or honey until the mixture is smooth and creamy, ensuring the sugar dissolves fully.
- Mix salad with dressing: Pour the prepared dressing over the broccoli mixture and toss thoroughly to coat all the ingredients evenly with the creamy dressing.
- Season to taste: Add salt and black pepper according to your preference, and mix gently so the seasoning distributes uniformly.
- Chill before serving: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the salad to chill, enhancing its taste and texture before serving.
Notes
- For a nut-free version, omit the sunflower seeds or almonds.
- Use honey instead of sugar for a natural sweetener alternative.
- Make sure to refrigerate the salad for optimal flavor development.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Adding raisins or dried cranberries can provide a sweet and chewy texture contrast.
