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When it comes to salads that offer both taste and texture, the Zesty Broccoli Bacon Bliss Salad reigns supreme. This delightful dish combines the vibrant crunch of fresh broccoli with the savory richness of crispy bacon and the sharpness of cheddar cheese. Whether you're planning a summer picnic, a family gathering, or simply want to elevate your dinner table, this salad serves as the perfect side dish that is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. In this article, we will delve into the background of this beloved recipe, explore its ingredients, and guide you through the initial steps to create your very own Zesty Broccoli Bacon Bliss Salad.

Tangy Broccoli Bacon Salad

Discover the irresistible Zesty Broccoli Bacon Bliss Salad, a flavor-packed side that combines fresh broccoli, crispy bacon, and sharp cheddar cheese. Perfect for any occasion, this salad balances crunch and creaminess with a zesty homemade dressing. Not only is it easy to make, but it's also nutritious, offering a wealth of vitamins from broccoli and protein from bacon. Elevate your next gathering with this delightful dish that will wow your family and friends!
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Ingredients
  

4 cups fresh broccoli florets

1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled (approximately 8 strips)

1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

½ cup red onion, finely chopped

½ cup sunflower seeds or your choice of chopped nuts

½ cup mayonnaise

¼ cup apple cider vinegar

2 tablespoons Dijon mustard

2 tablespoons honey

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions
 

Prepare the Broccoli: Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add the broccoli florets and blanch for 2-3 minutes, or until they turn bright green and are slightly tender. Quickly transfer the broccoli to a bowl filled with ice water to halt the cooking process. Once cooled, drain well and pat dry with a clean kitchen towel.

    Cook the Bacon: Place a skillet over medium heat. Add the bacon strips in a single layer and cook until crispy, about 8-10 minutes, flipping occasionally for even cooking. Once done, transfer the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess grease. Allow to cool, then crumble into bite-sized pieces.

      Mix the Dressing: In a small mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk together until the mixture is smooth and creamy, ensuring all ingredients are fully incorporated.

        Combine the Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the prepared broccoli, crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, finely chopped red onion, and sunflower seeds (or nuts). Stir gently to combine the ingredients, ensuring they are evenly distributed.

          Dress the Salad: Pour the prepared dressing over the salad mixture. Gently toss everything together using a spatula or tongs until all elements are well-coated with the dressing.

            Chill and Serve: Cover the salad with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This resting period allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Before serving, give the salad another gentle toss to redistribute the dressing.

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings:

                Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 6