Description
A delightful salad combining the freshness of broccoli with crunchy bacon, sweet cranberries, and creamy dressing, perfect for potlucks or family dinners.
Ingredients
- 10-11 strips bacon (cooked)
- 2 heads broccoli (about 1 and 1/2 pounds or 5-6 cups)
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1/3 cup sunflower seeds (roasted and salted)
- 1 cup cheddar cheese (shredded)
- 1/3 cup chopped red onion
- 1 and 1/4 cups Miracle Whip OR mayonnaise
- 1 lemon (zested)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 and 1/4 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon dry mustard
- 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Instructions
- Start by cooking the bacon. Bake it in the oven until it reaches your desired crispness, then set aside on paper towels to cool. Chop the bacon into bite-sized pieces.
- While the bacon is cooking, mix the dressing in a large bowl by combining Miracle Whip (or mayonnaise), lemon zest, lemon juice, white wine vinegar, sugar, kosher salt, black pepper, dry mustard, and cayenne pepper. Whisk until well combined.
- Prepare the broccoli by chopping it into small florets. You can also chop the stems and add them to the salad.
- Add the chopped broccoli, dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped red onion to the bowl with the dressing. Include most of the cooked bacon, saving some to sprinkle on top later.
- Stir all ingredients together until well mixed. This salad can be served at room temperature or chilled. If chilling, let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before serving.
Notes
To enhance flavor, add chopped green apples or bell peppers for extra crunch. Adjust amounts of bacon, cranberries, or cheese to taste. You can use Greek yogurt instead of Miracle Whip or mayonnaise for a healthier option.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American