Broccoli Salad

Salad
2 bunches fresh broccoli (about 1 pound), cut in small flowerets
1 medium purple onion, finely chopped
1 cup grated cheddar cheese
6 strips bacon, cooked until crisp and crumbled
1/2 cup sunflower seeds or raisins (optional)
1 recipe Broccoli Salad Dressing

In a large bowl combine broccoli, onion, and cheese.  Refrigerate.  Just before serving, stir in bacon.  Add sunflower seeds or raisins if you wish.  Pour desired amount of dressing over salad.  Stir briefly. Serve the same day.

Salad Dressing
1 cup mayonnaise
2 TB red or white wine vinegar
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 tsp salt

Mix ingredients.  Chill at least one hour before tossing with salad. 

Note:  I have seen this salad made with a mixture of broccoli and cauliflower.  I like to add both sunflower seeds and raisins - a full half cup of both!  Be aware that any leftover salad will be somewhat soggy (that's the best word I can think of) the next day.  For this reason, I like to serve the salad dressing on the side.