Apple Broccoli Salad

Ingredients

• 4 cups broccoli florets, chopped into bite-sized pieces
• 1 large crisp apple (e.g. Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), cored and diced
• ½ cup dried cranberries
• ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
• ½ cup sunflower seeds (or chopped walnuts)
• ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

Dressing

• ½ cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter version)
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Blanch the broccoli (optional): Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add broccoli florets and cook for 1 minute. Immediately drain and plunge into a bowl of ice water to stop cooking. Drain thoroughly and pat dry.
2. Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar and honey until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Combine salad ingredients: In a large bowl, toss together the broccoli, diced apple, dried cranberries, red onion, sunflower seeds and cheddar cheese.
4. Toss with dressing: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
5. Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve: Give the salad a final toss, adjust seasoning (salt, pepper, honey) as desired, and serve cold.

Tips & Variations

• Swap apples for pears or add diced celery for extra crunch.
• Stir in cooked, crumbled bacon or diced ham for a savory twist.
• Use yogurt instead of mayo and add a pinch of garlic powder for tang.