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Fresh Broccoli Bacon Salad with Easy Honey Mustard Dressing

fresh broccoli bacon salad - featured image

A crunchy and flavorful salad combining fresh broccoli, crispy bacon, and a creamy honey mustard dressing. Perfect for potlucks, gatherings, or quick dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 300g), chopped into bite-sized pieces
  • 6 slices thick-cut bacon, cooked until crispy and chopped
  • ½ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (optional)
  • ¼ cup red onion, finely diced
  • ½ cup sunflower seeds or slivered almonds
  • ½ cup dried cranberries or raisins
  • ⅓ cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the bacon over medium heat in a skillet until crispy, about 4–5 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels and chop into bite-sized pieces.
  2. Wash and chop broccoli into small, bite-sized florets. Dry thoroughly with a kitchen towel or salad spinner.
  3. Finely dice the red onion. Measure out shredded cheddar cheese, sunflower seeds, and dried cranberries. Set aside.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  5. In a large mixing bowl, combine broccoli, bacon, red onion, cheddar cheese, sunflower seeds, and dried cranberries.
  6. Pour the honey mustard dressing over the salad and gently toss with salad tongs or large spoons until evenly coated.
  7. Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

Do not overcook bacon; crispy but tender is best. Dry broccoli thoroughly to avoid soggy salad. Chill salad before serving for best flavor. Gentle tossing prevents broccoli from breaking. Adjust vinegar for more tang if desired. Bacon grease can be saved for extra flavor if desired.

Nutrition

Keywords: broccoli salad, bacon salad, honey mustard dressing, easy salad, potluck recipe, crunchy salad