Vegetarian Classic Broccoli Salad

Total time1 hr

Prep time20 min

Cook time10 min

Crisp broccoli florets get tossed with sharp cheddar, crunchy sunflower seeds, and sweet-tart dried cranberries for a salad that's all about contrast in every bite. The dressing is a simple whisk of mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper, coating everything in a tangy, slightly sweet finish. A short chill in the fridge is all it takes for the flavors to meld and the broccoli to soften just enough. Finely diced red onion adds a sharp bite that balances the richness of the cheese, making this a colorful, textured side that holds up well for potlucks or meal prep. It's a great pick for a vegetarian spread, easy to make ahead and just as good the next day.

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Ingredients

6 servings

For the salad

6 strips bacon
MorningStar Farms Meatless Bacon Strips Plant Based Protein Original - 5.25 Oz Lightlife Smart Plant-Based Bacon Morning Star Farms Veggie Morningstar Farms, Veggie Breakfast, Veggie Bacon Strips, Vegetarian
MorningStar Farms Thick Cut Applewood Black Pepper Vegetarian Bacon Strips
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Chef's tip
Cook it only until crisp, adding a little oil to the pan - vegetarian bacon cooks much faster than pork bacon and can scorch. If the recipe simmers or bakes the bacon further, set it aside and stir it back in near the end.
1 large head broccoli (about 1 ½ lbs), cut into small florets
½ cup red onion, finely diced
1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
Chef's tip
Shred it and warm it gently; dairy-free cheddar melts best baked into a dish.
⅓ cup roasted sunflower seeds
⅓ cup dried cranberries

For the dressing

¾ cup mayonnaise
2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
2 tbsp granulated sugar
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper

Instructions

1
Cook the bacon in a large skillet over medium heat, turning occasionally, until crisp and deeply browned, about 8–10 minutes. Transfer to a paper-towel-lined plate and let cool, then crumble into small pieces.
2
In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper until smooth and the sugar is fully dissolved.

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