Sweet & Tangy Broccoli Salad

Leopard Apron's Note:

Another variation of the always popular broccoli salad - I like the tanginess and texture of the dried cranberries! This salad is good anytime of the year - the favors really come together the next day (if you have any left....)

• Total Time: 30 mins
• Prep Time: 30 mins
• Cook Time: 0 mins

Ingredients:

Servings: 8

• 1 bunch broccoli , chopped
• ½ medium red onion , sliced into thin rings
• ½ medium yellow sweet onion , sliced into thin rings
• 1 cup red seedless grapes , sliced in half, lengthwise
• ½ cup dried cranberries
• ¼ cup sunflower seed
• 6 slices bacon , fried crisp and crumbled
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese , finely grated
• ¼ cup sugar
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• 6 drops hot sauce (Louisiana brand)
• 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper , freshly ground

Directions:

1. Fry bacon, drain and crumble, then set aside.
2. Rinse and drain broccoli. Remove the tough bottoms of the stalks, slice stems and flowerets, then coarsely chop all parts and place in large mixing bowl. Quarter onion slices and add to broccoli along with grapes, cranberries, sunflower kernels,bacon and cheese. Toss well to combine.
3. For dresssing, combine remaining ingredients and mix well until sugar is dissolved and mixture is smooth.
4. Refrigerate all, toss broccoli with dressing just before serving.