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Crunchy Broccoli Bacon Salad Recipe with Easy Honey Mustard Dressing

crunchy broccoli bacon salad - featured image

A quick and easy crunchy broccoli bacon salad with a sweet and tangy honey mustard poppy seed dressing. Perfect for last-minute guests, potlucks, or a speedy weeknight side.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups broccoli florets (about 300 grams)
  • 6 slices bacon, cooked crispy and chopped
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup sunflower seeds (about 30 grams), toasted if desired
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (about 60 grams)
  • 1/4 cup dried cranberries or raisins
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon poppy seeds
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, about 8–10 minutes, flipping occasionally. Drain on paper towels and chop into bite-sized pieces. Save a tablespoon of bacon grease if desired.
  2. Rinse broccoli florets under cold water and pat dry. Chop into 1-inch pieces.
  3. Finely dice the red onion. Soak in ice water for 5 minutes if you want to mellow the flavor, then drain.
  4. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together mayonnaise, honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, poppy seeds, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
  5. In a large bowl, combine broccoli, bacon, red onion, sunflower seeds, shredded cheddar cheese, and dried cranberries. Pour dressing over and toss gently to coat evenly.
  6. Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. Toss gently again before plating.

Notes

For best crunch, use fresh broccoli and crisp bacon. Toast sunflower seeds lightly for extra flavor. Dressing can be made with Greek yogurt for a lighter version. Prepare salad and dressing separately if making ahead to keep broccoli crisp. Store leftovers in airtight container up to 2 days. Reheat gently if needed but not recommended.

Nutrition

Keywords: broccoli salad, bacon salad, honey mustard dressing, poppy seed dressing, crunchy salad, easy salad, potluck salad, BBQ side dish