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Close-up of raw broccoli florets mixed with reddish-brown bacon and bright orange cheddar in a Classic Broccoli Salad.

Classic Broccoli Salad: The Ultimate Creamy & Crunchy Potluck Side

This Classic Broccoli Salad features raw broccoli florets, crispy bacon, sharp cheddar, and sunflower seeds tossed in a thick creamy white dressing. Perfect for potlucks, it’s the ultimate balance of salty, sweet, and crunch.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 8 people
Course: Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 385
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 6 cups raw broccoli florets cut into small pieces (approx. 500g)
  • 10 slices bacon fried crispy and crumbled (approx. 250g)
  • 1.5 cups sharp cheddar cheese shredded (approx. 170g)
  • 0.5 cup red onion finely diced (approx. 75g)
  • 0.5 cup dried cranberries approx. 60g
  • 0.5 cup sunflower seeds toasted (approx. 65g)
  • 1 cup mayonnaise 240ml
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar 30ml
  • 3 tablespoons granulated sugar 36g

Equipment

  • 1 Large Mixing Bowl White ceramic preferred for presentation
  • 1 Small skillet For toasting seeds and frying bacon

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Fry the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until it is crispy and reddish-brown. Drain on paper towels and crumble.
  2. In a dry pan, toast the sunflower seeds over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and golden.
Assembly
  1. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and sugar until smooth and glossy.
  2. In a large ceramic bowl, combine broccoli, bacon, cheese, onion, cranberries, and seeds. Pour dressing over and toss thoroughly to coat.

Notes

Chill for 2 hours before serving for best flavor.
Cut broccoli florets into very small pieces to maximize dressing coverage.