Description
A crunchy and flavorful broccoli salad featuring crispy bacon, dried cranberries, roasted sunflower seeds, sharp cheddar cheese, and a tangy, creamy dressing made with Miracle Whip and lemon. This easy no-cook recipe is perfect for potlucks, picnics, or a refreshing side dish.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad
- 10-11 strips bacon, cooked and chopped
- 2 heads broccoli (about 1.5 pounds), chopped into small florets
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1/3 cup roasted sunflower seeds
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/3 cup chopped red onion
Dressing
- 1 1/4 cups Miracle Whip or mayonnaise
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon dry mustard
- Pinch of cayenne pepper
Instructions
- Cook the bacon: Preheat the oven and cook the bacon strips on a baking sheet until they become crispy. Once cooked, allow them to cool before chopping into bite-sized pieces.
- Prepare the dressing: In a large bowl, whisk together Miracle Whip or mayonnaise with lemon zest, lemon juice, white wine vinegar, sugar, kosher salt, black pepper, dry mustard, and cayenne pepper until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Prep the broccoli: Chop the broccoli heads into small florets and add them directly to the bowl with the dressing.
- Add mix-ins: Stir in the dried cranberries, roasted sunflower seeds, shredded cheddar cheese, and most of the chopped bacon, reserving some bacon pieces for garnish.
- Combine and chill: Gently mix all ingredients until evenly combined. Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute mayonnaise for Miracle Whip if preferred.
- For a nuttier flavor, try toasting the sunflower seeds further before adding.
- Make sure to chop the broccoli into small florets to ensure easy eating and even dressing coverage.
- This salad keeps well refrigerated for 2-3 days but is best served fresh.
- Feel free to add chopped red onion for extra bite if desired.
