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Fresh Broccoli Bacon Salad Recipe Easy Tangy Apple Cider Dressing

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A crisp and flavorful broccoli bacon salad with a tangy apple cider dressing, perfect for potlucks, quick dinners, or solo lunches.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 1 large head), washed and chopped into bite-sized pieces
  • 6 slices thick-cut bacon, cooked until crispy and chopped
  • 1/4 cup finely diced red onion
  • 1/2 cup shelled sunflower seeds, toasted
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (optional)
  • 1/4 cup raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional add-ins: raisins or dried cranberries, or swap sunflower seeds for chopped walnuts

Instructions

  1. Cook the bacon in a cold skillet over medium heat, flipping occasionally, until crispy (about 8-10 minutes). Drain on paper towels and chop into bite-sized pieces.
  2. While bacon cooks, wash and chop broccoli into small bite-sized pieces. Dry thoroughly using a salad spinner or towels.
  3. Toast sunflower seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat until lightly golden and fragrant (about 3 minutes). Stir frequently and let cool.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, mayonnaise, salt, and pepper. Adjust sweetness or acidity to taste.
  5. In a large bowl, combine broccoli, chopped bacon, diced red onion, toasted sunflower seeds, and shredded cheddar cheese. Pour dressing over and toss gently to coat evenly.
  6. Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld. Toss again before serving.

Notes

Dry broccoli thoroughly to prevent soggy salad. Cook bacon slowly over medium heat for even crispiness. Adjust dressing sweetness and acidity to taste. For best flavor, chill salad before serving. Dressing can be kept separate and tossed just before serving to maintain crispness.

Nutrition

Keywords: broccoli bacon salad, apple cider dressing, tangy salad, easy salad recipe, potluck salad, quick salad

Find it online: https://recipebelle.com/fresh-broccoli-bacon-salad-recipe-easy-tangy-apple-cider-dressing/