Creamy Classic Broccoli Salad with Bacon and Cheddar
Prepare this creamy, crunchy broccoli salad featuring bacon, cheddar cheese, and sunflower seeds. It is a simple side dish perfect for potlucks and picnics.
- Prep Time: 15 min
- Cook Time: 5 min
- Total Time: 20 min
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1/2 cup cooked, crumbled bacon
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the broccoli florets, crumbled bacon, cheddar cheese, dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, and chopped red onion.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and sugar until smooth. This is your dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture. Toss gently until all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to blend.
Notes
- For the best texture, chop the broccoli into small, uniform pieces.
- You can prepare the salad up to 4 hours ahead of time.
- If you prefer a tangier flavor, reduce the sugar in the dressing by one teaspoon.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 12
- Sodium: 280
- Fat: 26
- Saturated Fat: 8
- Unsaturated Fat: 18
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 16
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 8
- Cholesterol: 35