Simple Broccoli Salad

Simple Broccoli Salad

If you've ever been to a Summer potluck, then you've likely had a variation of this simple broccoli salad.  It's a forgivable salad that you can tweak to make your own by adding or substituting ingredients or measurements.  Experiment!  You won't regret it.

INGREDIENTS FOR DRESSING

Mix the below together and set aside while making the salad.

1 cup mayo

1/2 cup sour cream

1 tablespoon sugar

2 tablespoons honey

2 tablespoons red-wine vinegar

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

salt to taste (about 1/4 teaspoon)

INGREDIENTS FOR SALAD

6 cups broccoli florets (or do a mixture of broccoli and cauliflower) 

- I do blanch the broccoli in salt water for 1 minute and then rinse with cold water.  After rinsing, place in a bowl of cold water with ice cubes until ready to mix together with the other ingredients.

1 block extra Sharp Cheddar Cheese (8 oz), chopped into small cubes

1 cup cooked, chopped bacon

3/4 cup dried cranberries (or do a mixture of different dried berries)

3/4 cup purple onion / red onion, diced

3/4 cup sunflower seeds (I prefer unsalted)

Drain broccoli and pat dry.  Add all ingredients to a large bowl and stir to mix well.  Cover with dressing and refrigerate at least two hours before serving.