1-First Step: Prep the broccoli Start by washing the broccoli and cutting it into small pieces. Smaller pieces make the salad easier to eat and help the dressing coat every bite. If you want a softer texture, lightly steam the broccoli for 1 to 2 minutes only. Do not overcook it. You want it tender but still bright green and crisp.

2-Second Step: Cool and drain the broccoli After steaming, drain the broccoli well and let it cool. This step matters because warm broccoli can melt the cheese and thin out the dressing. Spread it out on a plate or tray if you want it to cool faster. If you are using raw broccoli, pat it dry with a clean towel so excess moisture does not water down the salad.

3-Third Step: Make the dressing In a large bowl, combine the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and stevia sweetener. Stir until the dressing is smooth and evenly mixed. The vinegar gives the dressing a bright tang, while the stevia balances it with just a little sweetness. Taste the dressing and adjust if needed. If you like a slightly sharper flavor, add a touch more vinegar. If you want it sweeter, add a small amount more stevia.

4-Fourth Step: Add the broccoli and cheese Toss the cooled broccoli into the bowl with the dressing. Mix gently so each piece gets coated without breaking apart. Next, add the grated cheddar cheese and stir again. The cheese helps give the salad a creamy, salty richness that goes well with the bacon later on. Make sure the broccoli is fully coated before adding the final mix-ins.

5-Fifth Step: Mix in the bacon, onion, and sunflower seeds Add the cooked and chopped no-sugar bacon, chopped onion, and roasted sunflower seeds. Stir everything together just until combined. At this point, the salad should look colorful and textured, with green broccoli, yellow cheddar, and little bits of bacon and seeds throughout. If you want the cleanest texture, you can also keep the sunflower seeds aside and sprinkle them on top right before serving.

6-Final Step: Chill and serve For the best flavor, let the salad rest in the fridge for about 20 to 30 minutes before serving. This short chill time lets the flavors blend and helps the dressing cling to the broccoli. If you want the crunchiest result, serve the dressing separately and toss it in right before eating. That trick is especially useful for potlucks and meal prep.