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Broccoli Cranberry Salad with Bacon and Sunflower Seeds Recipe

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4.3 from 2 reviews

A refreshing and crunchy broccoli cranberry salad featuring crispy bacon, sweet dried cranberries, and a tangy homemade dressing, perfect as a healthy side dish or light meal.

Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

  • 6 slices bacon (about 6 ounces)
  • 1 pound broccoli (about 4 cups of florets and matchsticks)
  • ⅓ cup red onion, finely chopped
  • ½ cup dried cranberries or raisins
  • ¼ cup sunflower seeds

Dressing Ingredients

  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 2 teaspoons sugar
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • ¼ teaspoon kosher salt (adjust to taste)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Bacon: Line a rimmed baking sheet with foil and arrange the bacon slices on it. Place the sheet in a cold oven, then turn the oven on to 400°F. Bake the bacon for 16 to 22 minutes until it is as crisp as you prefer. Remove from oven and transfer the bacon to paper towels to drain the excess fat. Once cooled, chop the bacon into pieces.
  2. Make the Salad: While the bacon cooks, combine the broccoli florets and matchsticks, finely chopped red onion, dried cranberries, and sunflower seeds in a large mixing bowl.
  3. Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl or glass measuring cup, whisk together the mayonnaise, fresh lemon juice, sugar, and Dijon mustard until smooth. Taste the dressing and add kosher salt if needed.
  4. Assemble the Salad: Add the chopped bacon into the bowl with the broccoli mixture. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss thoroughly to coat all ingredients evenly.
  5. Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the salad for a couple of hours before serving to let the flavors meld together. The salad keeps well for up to 2 days in the refrigerator. Stir gently before serving.

Notes

  • Baking bacon in the oven helps achieve an even crispness without splatter.
  • Adjust the sugar in the dressing to taste, especially if you prefer it less sweet.
  • This salad can be prepared ahead of time and stored refrigerated for up to two days.
  • For a nuttier flavor, try substituting sunflower seeds with chopped walnuts or pecans.
  • If you want a tangier salad, increase the lemon juice slightly.

Find it online: https://marthatasty.com/broccoli-cranberry-salad-with-bacon-and-sunflower-seeds-recipe/