Description
A cozy, crunchy classic broccoli salad with a sweet-tangy dressing and a delightful mix of textures from fresh vegetables, dried fruits, and optional bacon.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups broccoli florets (trimmed into bite-sized pieces)
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries or raisins
- 1/2 cup sunflower seeds or slivered almonds
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled (optional)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, 1 small apple diced
Instructions
- Prepare the broccoli: Wash and trim the florets into bite-sized pieces. Dry them well.
- Cook and cool the bacon: In a skillet, cook bacon until crisp. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to cool, then crumble.
- Toast the seeds and nuts: In the same skillet, toast sunflower seeds or nuts until fragrant and golden, about 2 to 4 minutes.
- Make the dressing: In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper.
- Combine the salad: Toss broccoli, red onion, dried fruit, cheddar, crumbled bacon, and toasted seeds. Pour the dressing over and toss.
- Chill and serve: Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld before serving.
Notes
Best served chilled, can be made ahead and stored separately for optimal freshness.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Chilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: broccoli salad, healthy salad, holiday side dish, quick family meal