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Broccoli Salad: Best Creamy Crunchy Side Dish Recipe

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Broccoli Salad is a creamy and crunchy cold side dish made with fresh broccoli, crispy bacon, cheddar cheese, red onion, sunflower seeds, raisins, and a tangy dressing. It is perfect for BBQs, potlucks, picnics, and family dinners.

  • Author: Emily
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Total Time: 32 minutes
  • Yield: 10 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped
  • 10 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 1 1/2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 3/4 cup red onion, finely diced
  • 3/4 cup sunflower seeds
  • 3/4 cup raisins or dried cranberries
  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 3 tablespoons sugar or honey
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Wash broccoli thoroughly and dry completely.
  2. Cut broccoli into small bite-sized florets.
  3. Cook bacon until crisp, cool, then crumble.
  4. In a bowl whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper.
  5. In a large bowl combine broccoli, bacon, cheese, onion, sunflower seeds, and raisins.
  6. Pour dressing over ingredients and toss until evenly coated.
  7. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
  8. Stir gently and serve chilled.

Notes

  • Dry broccoli fully after washing to avoid watery dressing.
  • Use fresh bacon for best flavor.
  • Add sunflower seeds just before serving for extra crunch.
  • Can be made 1 day ahead.
  • Store refrigerated up to 3 days.
  • Fresh broccoli is recommended over frozen.

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