Traditional Broccoli Salad

Ingredients:

1 head broccoli

6 to 8 slices cooked crispy bacon, crumbled

1/2 cup chopped red onion

1/2 cup raisins, optional

1/2 cup slivered almonds or cashews, optional

8 oz. sharp cheddar cheese, cut into small chunks

1 cup mayonnaise 

2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

1/4 cup sugar

1/2 cup cherry tomatoes

Salt and freshly ground black pepper

Directions:

Trim off the leaves and the tough stalk from the bottom of the head.  Wash broccoli head thoroughly, cut into flowerets and cut the tender part of the stem into bite-size pieces.  Place in a bowl and add the crumbled bacon, onion, raisins and nuts if using, tomatoes and cheese.  In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar and sugar and whisk together until well-combined and sugar is dissolved.  Pour over broccoli mixture and toss gently.