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Pioneer Woman Broccoli Salad Recipe

Pioneer Woman Broccoli Salad Recipe

Welcome to your new favorite side dish! This Pioneer Woman Broccoli Salad Recipe is a total game-changer.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Servings 5
Calories 160 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 6 cups fresh broccoli florets cut small
  • 1/2 cup red onion finely diced
  • 1/2 cup sunflower seeds roasted
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries or raisins
  • 8 slices bacon cooked and crumbled
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese shredded
  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons white vinegar
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions
 

Prep the Broccoli

  • Wash the broccoli head very well under cold water. Cut the florets into small, bite-sized pieces. Make sure they are dry before mixing.

Cook the Bacon

  • Fry the bacon until it is very crispy. Let it cool on a paper towel. Crumble it into small bits for the salad.

Mix the Veggies and Toppings

  • Find a very large mixing bowl. Add the broccoli, onions, and cheese. Toss in the sunflower seeds and cranberries. Add the bacon bits last to keep them crunchy.

Make the Creamy Dressing

  • Grab a small bowl for the sauce. Whisk the mayo, sugar, and vinegar together. Add the salt and pepper for extra flavor. The dressing should be smooth and sweet.

Combine Everything

  • Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture. Use a spatula to coat every piece. Mix it gently so nothing gets crushed.

Chill and Serve

  • Cover the bowl with plastic wrap. Put it in the fridge for one hour. This helps the flavors blend together perfectly. Stir once more before you serve it.

Notes

  • Use Fresh Broccoli: Do not use frozen broccoli for this. Raw broccoli provides the best crunch.
  • Cut Small Pieces: Small florets soak up the dressing better. It makes the salad easier to chew.
  • Chill Before Serving: Cold salad tastes much better. Let it sit for at least an hour.
  • Add Bacon Last: If you want extra crunch, add bacon later. Stir it in right before eating.
  • Try Different Seeds: You can use pecans or walnuts instead. They add a great nutty flavor.
  • Adjust the Sugar: Some people like it less sweet. Start with half the sugar and taste it.
Keyword Pioneer Woman Broccoli Salad Recipe