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Crispy Broccoli Crunch Salad Recipe with Cheddar Bacon and Honey Mustard Dressing

crispy broccoli crunch salad - featured image

A crunchy and flavorful salad combining fresh broccoli, sharp cheddar, smoky bacon, and a tangy honey mustard dressing. Perfect for quick meals and gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups fresh broccoli florets, washed and chopped into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 6 to 8 bacon strips, cooked crisp and chopped
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
  • 1/3 cup sunflower seeds or slivered almonds
  • 1/4 cup raisins or dried cranberries (optional)
  • 1/3 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook 6 to 8 bacon strips in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy, about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally. Transfer to paper towels to drain, then chop into bite-sized pieces.
  2. Wash and chop fresh broccoli into small florets (about 4 cups). Use a salad spinner or towel to remove excess moisture.
  3. Finely chop 1/4 cup of red onion. If desired, soak in cold water for 10 minutes to reduce sharpness, then drain.
  4. In a small bowl or jar, combine 1/3 cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons honey, 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, and salt and pepper to taste. Whisk or shake until smooth and creamy.
  5. In a large bowl, combine broccoli, shredded cheddar, chopped bacon, diced onion, sunflower seeds, and raisins or dried cranberries if using.
  6. Pour dressing over the salad and toss gently but thoroughly to coat.
  7. Serve immediately for best texture. If preparing ahead, keep dressing separate and toss just before serving.

Notes

Do not toss the dressing too early to keep broccoli crisp. Cook bacon low and slow for best texture. Dry broccoli thoroughly before mixing. Adjust honey and mustard in dressing to taste. Keep dressing separate if preparing ahead.

Nutrition

Keywords: broccoli salad, crispy broccoli salad, cheddar bacon salad, honey mustard dressing, quick salad, crowd-pleaser, easy salad recipe