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Crispy Bacon and Cranberry Broccoli Salad Recipe with Easy Honey Mustard Dressing

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A quick and easy broccoli salad featuring crispy bacon, tart dried cranberries, and a smooth honey mustard dressing. Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or a flavorful side dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 300 grams), chopped into bite-sized pieces
  • 8 slices thick-cut bacon
  • 1 cup dried cranberries (about 120 grams)
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced (optional)
  • 1/2 cup sunflower seeds (optional)
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • For the Honey Mustard Dressing:
  • 1/3 cup mayonnaise (80 ml), use vegan mayo for dairy-free
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 2 tablespoons honey (maple syrup can substitute for vegan option)
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Place 8 slices of thick-cut bacon in a cold skillet. Turn the heat to medium and cook, turning occasionally, until crispy but not burnt, about 8-10 minutes. Drain on paper towels and let cool slightly.
  2. Rinse 4 cups of fresh broccoli florets and chop into bite-sized pieces. Dry thoroughly to keep the salad crisp.
  3. Finely chop 1/4 cup of red onion if using.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together 1/3 cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard, 2 tablespoons honey, and 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar. Add salt and pepper to taste.
  5. In a large mixing bowl, combine the broccoli, dried cranberries, diced onion, and 1/2 cup sunflower seeds (if using). Crumble the cooled bacon and add it along with 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese.
  6. Pour the honey mustard dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  7. Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Notes

Cook bacon over medium heat to achieve perfect crispiness without burning. Dry broccoli thoroughly to keep salad crisp. Whisk dressing fresh before tossing. Refrigerate salad at least 30 minutes before serving for best flavor. For vegan or vegetarian versions, substitute bacon with smoked tempeh or crispy roasted chickpeas and use vegan mayo and plant-based cheese.

Nutrition

Keywords: broccoli salad, bacon salad, cranberry salad, honey mustard dressing, potluck recipe, easy salad, quick salad

Find it online: https://bitesienna.com/crispy-bacon-and-cranberry-broccoli-salad-recipe-with-easy-honey-mustard-dressing/