why make this recipe

Crunchy Broccoli Salad Supreme is a delightful dish packed with flavor and texture. It’s a great option for a side dish at barbecues, potlucks, or even a healthy lunch. The combination of fresh broccoli, crispy bacon, and creamy dressing creates a satisfying salad that everyone will enjoy. Plus, it’s quick to prepare and can be made ahead of time, making it a convenient choice for busy days.

how to make Crunchy Broccoli Salad Supreme

Ingredients:

• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
• 1/2 cup red onion, diced
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup cooked bacon bits
• 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons honey
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions:

1. Blanch the broccoli in boiling water for 1-2 minutes. This helps to brighten the color and soften the texture slightly.
2. Quickly transfer the broccoli to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. This keeps the broccoli crisp and vibrant. Drain well.
3. In a large bowl, mix the broccoli, red onion, cheddar cheese, bacon bits, and sunflower seeds together.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
5. Pour the dressing over the salad. Toss everything together until it’s well mixed.
6. Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. Enjoy the fresh flavors!

how to serve Crunchy Broccoli Salad Supreme

Serve Crunchy Broccoli Salad Supreme as a side dish to grilled meats or as part of a buffet. It’s perfect for gatherings and potlucks, offering a refreshing contrast to heavier dishes. You can also enjoy it on its own for a light lunch or snack.

how to store Crunchy Broccoli Salad Supreme

Store any leftover Crunchy Broccoli Salad Supreme in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 2-3 days. However, the salad may lose some of its crunch as it sits.

tips to make Crunchy Broccoli Salad Supreme

• Ensure you cool the broccoli in ice water thoroughly; this enhances the crunchiness.
• Feel free to adjust the sweetness of the dressing by adding more or less honey according to your taste.
• Add some grapes or apples for a fruity twist, or use nuts like almonds or walnuts for an extra crunch.

variation

You can replace the bacon with turkey bacon or completely skip it for a vegetarian version. For a different flavor profile, try using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter dressing.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?
It’s best to use fresh broccoli for the best texture and flavor, but if you prefer frozen, make sure to thaw and drain it well before using.

2. How can I make this salad vegan?
To make this salad vegan, substitute the mayonnaise with a vegan mayonnaise or an avocado dressing, and skip the bacon.

3. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! This salad can be made a day in advance. Just be aware that the broccoli may become softer after sitting in the dressing for a long time, so add the crunchy toppings right before serving for the best texture.