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Creamy Apple Broccoli Salad with Bacon and Cheddar

Close-up of a bowl filled with creamy apple broccoli salad, topped with bacon bits, shredded cheese, and red onion slices.
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You make this easy apple broccoli salad with a creamy dressing, crisp apples, sharp cheddar cheese, and savory bacon. It is a satisfying side dish perfect for potlucks or a light lunch.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 large head of fresh broccoli, cut into small florets
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, cubed or shredded
  • 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
  • 1 large crisp apple (like Honeycrisp or Fuji), cored and diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup raisins or dried cranberries (optional)
  • For the Dressing:
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, and Dijon mustard until smooth. Season with salt and pepper. Set aside.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the raw broccoli florets, diced apple, chopped red onion, cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and raisins or cranberries, if using.
  3. Pour the prepared creamy dressing over the salad ingredients.
  4. Gently toss all ingredients until the vegetables and fruit are evenly coated with the dressing.
  5. Cover the bowl and chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to blend.
  6. Taste and adjust seasoning before serving your crunchy vegetable salad.

Notes

  • For a healthier option, substitute half the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt in the dressing.
  • If you are making this ahead of time, wait to add the diced apple until just before serving to prevent browning.
  • This salad works well as a potluck pasta salad alternative when served over a bed of crisp lettuce.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://hearthbite.com/apple-broccoli-salad-recipe/