1. Start by gathering all the fresh ingredients and preparing them with care. The key to a great salad is using high-quality, flavorful components that complement each other perfectly.

2. Begin by cutting the broccoli florets into bite-sized pieces, ensuring they’re crisp and fresh. Next, cook the bacon until it’s crispy, then crumble it into small pieces. Finely chop the red onion, shred the cheddar cheese, and measure out the sunflower seeds and dried cranberries.

3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the prepared broccoli, bacon, red onion, cheddar cheese, sunflower seeds, and dried cranberries. This colorful blend of ingredients is the foundation of the Bacon Broccoli Salad.

4. The dressing is what really ties the Bacon Broccoli Salad together, adding a delightful creaminess and tanginess to the dish. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and sugar until the mixture is smooth and well-combined.

5. Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently to ensure the broccoli, bacon, and other components are evenly coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the Bacon Broccoli Salad for at least an hour, allowing the flavors to meld and the dressing to cling to the ingredients.

6. Once the Bacon Broccoli Salad has had time to chill, it’s ready to be served and enjoyed. This versatile dish can be the star of the show as a side for grilled meats, burgers, or sandwiches. It also makes a fantastic addition to potlucks, picnics, and summer barbecues, where its vibrant colors and delicious flavors are sure to impress.

7. For best presentation, consider serving the Bacon Broccoli Salad in a large, shallow bowl or on a platter. The contrasting hues of the green broccoli, red onion, and golden-brown bacon create a visually appealing dish that will have your guests reaching for seconds.