Ingredients
Creating the best broccoli salad requires a handful of fresh, simple ingredients that come together in a beautiful dance of flavors:
– Fresh broccoli florets, washed and chopped
– Crisp bacon, cooked to perfection and crumbled
– Red onion, finely diced for that perfect bite
– Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded for a touch of creaminess
– Sunflower seeds, adding a delightful crunch
– Dried cranberries, for a pop of sweetness
For the dressing, you’ll need:
– Mayonnaise, the creamy base that ties everything together
– Apple cider vinegar, for a hint of tanginess
– Sugar, to balance the flavors and add a touch of sweetness
– A pinch of salt and pepper, to season to perfection
These ingredients, when combined with love and care, create a dish that sings of tradition and warmth.
Instructions
To craft this delightful salad, follow these steps:
1. Begin by preparing your broccoli. Cut the florets into bite-sized pieces and blanch them briefly in boiling water. This helps maintain their vibrant color and crunch.
2. While the broccoli cools, cook the bacon until crispy. Once cooled, crumble it into small pieces.
3. In a large bowl, combine the broccoli, bacon, diced red onion, shredded cheddar cheese, sunflower seeds, and dried cranberries.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth.
5. Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture, tossing gently to ensure every ingredient is coated in the creamy dressing.
6. Let the salad rest in the refrigerator for at least an hour. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating that signature taste that makes this salad unforgettable.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International