The Best Broccoli Salad

THE BEST BROCCOLI SALAD

YIELD: 6-8 SERVINGS

PREP TIME: 20 MINUTES

ADDITIONAL TIME: 2 HOURS

TOTAL TIME: 2 HOURS 20 MINUTES

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INGREDIENTS

DRESSING:

·          3/4 cup light or regular mayonnaise

·          1/4 cup granulated sugar

·          1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

SALAD:

·          1 1/2 pounds fresh broccoli, chopped into small bite-sized pieces

·          1 cup golden raisins (optional)

·          3/4 cup sunflower seeds

·          1 small shallot or red onion, finely diced (about 1/4 cup)

·          1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

·          6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled

INSTRUCTIONS

1.      In a small bowl, whisk together all of the dressing ingredients. Set aside.

2.      In a large bowl, toss the salad ingredients together. Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture and toss to coat all the ingredients with the sauce. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving. Right before serving, give the salad another good toss to recombine any dressing that may have settled at the bottom.

NOTES

This salad is extremely versatile. I, personally, omit the raisins, and all of the other ingredients can be upped or diminished according to your preference.