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Creamy Broccoli Bacon Salad Recipe with Cranberries Easy and Crunchy

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A fresh and satisfying salad combining crunchy broccoli, smoky bacon, sweet-tart cranberries, and a creamy tangy dressing. Perfect for quick weeknights, potlucks, or family dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 300 grams), chopped into bite-sized pieces
  • 6 to 8 slices bacon, cooked crisp and chopped
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries (about 75 grams)
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/3 cup sunflower seeds or slivered almonds (40 grams), toasted
  • 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (about 50 grams), optional
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise (120 ml)
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (30 ml)
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (15 ml)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste (start with 1/2 teaspoon salt and a few grinds of pepper)

Instructions

  1. Cook the bacon: Heat a medium skillet over medium heat. Add 6-8 slices of bacon and cook until crisp, about 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally. Transfer bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Once cool, chop into bite-sized pieces.
  2. Prep the broccoli: Rinse 4 cups of broccoli florets under cold water. Pat dry thoroughly with a clean towel or use a salad spinner. Chop into small, bite-friendly pieces about 1 inch in size.
  3. Chop the onion: Finely dice 1/4 cup red onion.
  4. Toast the seeds: In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast 1/3 cup sunflower seeds or slivered almonds for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and lightly browned, stirring continuously. Remove from heat and cool.
  5. Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon honey, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  6. Combine salad ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, toss broccoli, chopped bacon, dried cranberries, red onion, toasted seeds, and shredded cheddar cheese (if using). Pour dressing over and toss gently until evenly coated.
  7. Chill and serve: Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld and broccoli to soften slightly without losing crunch.

Notes

Dry broccoli thoroughly to prevent soggy salad. Cook bacon until crisp for best texture. Toast seeds separately for added crunch and flavor. Chill salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to meld flavors. Dressing can be made lighter by substituting mayo with Greek yogurt or dairy-free alternatives. Bacon can be swapped with turkey bacon or pancetta. For nut-free option, use sunflower seeds instead of almonds.

Nutrition

Keywords: broccoli salad, bacon salad, creamy salad, cranberry salad, easy side dish, potluck recipe, crunchy salad

Find it online: https://prismtaste.com/creamy-broccoli-bacon-salad-recipe-with-cranberries-easy-and-crunchy/