Broccoli Salad with Bacon (Printable Version)

# What You'll Need:

→ Dressing

01 - 1 cup mayonnaise
02 - 1½ tablespoons granulated sugar
03 - 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
04 - ¼ teaspoon fresh ground black pepper

→ Salad

05 - 1⅓ lbs broccoli florets, finely chopped into bite-size pieces
06 - 8 slices crispy cooked bacon, chopped
07 - ⅓ cup chopped red onion
08 - ½ cup sweetened dried cranberries
09 - ⅓ cup sliced almonds

# Step-by-Step Directions:

01 - Whisk together the mayonnaise, sugar, apple cider vinegar, and black pepper in a small bowl until well combined.
02 - In a large bowl, combine the broccoli florets, chopped bacon, red onions, dried cranberries, and sliced almonds.
03 - Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients and toss thoroughly to coat all pieces evenly.
04 - Cover the salad and refrigerate for 1-2 hours to allow flavors to meld. Toss again immediately before serving.

# Helpful Notes:

01 - For optimal taste, cover and refrigerate for a few hours before serving.
02 - This salad uses raw broccoli for its ease, health benefits, and crunch. If more tender broccoli is desired, blanch it by bringing a large pot of water to boil, adding broccoli for 1-2 minutes, then draining and rinsing with cold water. Dry well with paper towels.
03 - The broccoli stem is edible, but florets are preferred for this recipe. Cut the florets into bite-size pieces.