Description
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of this Broccoli Salad with Bacon Recipe, a crowd-pleasing side that’s perfect for any occasion. This salad combines crisp, fresh broccoli, smoky bacon, sweet dried cranberries, and tangy cheddar cheese, all tossed in a creamy homemade dressing. The delightful crunch from sunflower seeds adds texture, making this dish not only visually appealing but also satisfying to eat. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or looking for a festive dish to complement your Thanksgiving feast, this salad is an easy and delicious choice that will leave your guests asking for seconds.
Ingredients
Scale
- 10–11 strips bacon
- 2 heads broccoli (about 1.5 pounds)
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1/3 cup roasted sunflower seeds
- 1 cup cheddar cheese (shredded)
- 1/3 cup chopped red onion
- Dressing: Miracle Whip or mayonnaise, lemon zest and juice, white wine vinegar, sugar, kosher salt, black pepper, dry mustard, cayenne pepper
Instructions
- Cook bacon until crispy (baking recommended). Let cool and chop into pieces.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the dressing ingredients: Miracle Whip or mayonnaise, lemon zest and juice, white wine vinegar, sugar, salt, black pepper, dry mustard, and cayenne pepper until smooth.
- Chop broccoli into small florets and add to the bowl with the dressing.
- Mix in cranberries, sunflower seeds, cheddar cheese, and most of the bacon (reserve some for topping).
- Gently combine until evenly coated. Chill before serving for best flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 30mg