Nani's Crunchy Broccoli and Bacon Salad

Name: Nani's Crunchy Broccoli and Bacon Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cups fresh broccoli florets, cut into small pieces; 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled; 1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded; 1/3 cup dried cranberries; 1/4 cup sunflower seeds; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar; 1 tablespoon sugar; Salt and black pepper to taste

This fresh salad hits the perfect balance of crunchy, salty, and sweet flavors in every bite.

By Recipes By Nani· 🌍 American· July 20, 2026

recipesbynani.com

Prep

15 minutes

Cook

10 minutes

Total

25 minutes plus chilling

Serves

There is something so special about a salad that brings together fresh vegetables and crispy bits of bacon. This broccoli salad is a staple in my kitchen because it comes together quickly and always disappears fast at family gatherings.

The secret to the best texture is to cut the broccoli into very small, bite sized florets. It makes it easier to get a little bit of everything on your fork at once.

🧺 Ingredients

4 cups fresh broccoli florets, cut into small pieces
6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1/3 cup dried cranberries
1/4 cup sunflower seeds
1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon sugar
Salt and black pepper to taste

👩‍🍳Instructions

1
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, crumbled bacon, shredded cheese, dried cranberries, and sunflower seeds.
2
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and sugar until the dressing is smooth.
3
Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture and toss well to make sure everything is evenly coated.
4
Season with a pinch of salt and pepper to your liking.
5
Cover the bowl and let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour before serving so the flavors can blend.

💡 Tips

If you are short on time, you can prepare the bacon ahead of the day. This salad keeps well in the fridge for up to two days, but it is at its best if you eat it within the first 24 hours.

#salad #broccoli #bacon #side dish #healthy

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