Broccoli Craisin Salad

This is a favorite recipe of my big sister's.  She usually makes it in the summer time, but it can be made any time of year. It's a salad where the "green" is broccoli instead of some form of lettuce.  I think it's a great choice for your football party since people often offer raw broccoli as part of a crudité.  This is a nice twist.

It's a simple recipe with simple ingredients and lends itself to easy add-ons and customization.  You can whip it up in a snap and even make it ahead the day before.

Salad:
5 to 6 cups fresh broccoli florets                                       
1/2 cup craisins                                                                
1/2 cup sunflower seeds                                                 
1/2 cup crumbled bacon  (I used microwave bacon to make it easier)

Dressing:
1 cup mayo (would not recommend Miracle Whip, it would be too sweet)
1/4 to 1/2 cup sugar
2 tbsp. vinegar (I used apple cider, but white would be fine)


Cut up florets that are overly large. Place all the salad ingredients in a large bowl.

Combine all the dressing ingredients in a small bowl.  Add sugar a little at a time until the sweetness is right for you.

Pour dressing over salad and mix to combine. Either serve right away or cover and refrigerate.

Tip: I added a dash of lemon juice to the dressing, though my sister's recipe does not call for it. My hubby liked the lemon. It's a matter of preference.

You could easily add other items like shredded carrots, a combination of broccoli and cauliflower, pine nuts instead of sunflower seeds etc.  It's an easy recipe, but always a hit.

Enjoy!