Broccoli Salad With Mandarin Oranges And Cashews - cooking recipe

Ingredients

2 medium head fresh broccoli, washed and trimmed (do not use frozen)
1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/2 lb bacon, cooked and crumbled
1 cup roasted cashews (or roasted sunflower seeds)
1/2 cup canned mandarin orange segments, chopped and drained (or raisins)
1 1/4 cups grated mozzarella cheese (optional)
3 tablespoons cider vinegar
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
3/4 cup good quality mayonnaise (such as Hellman's or Best Foods)
1/3 cup sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper

Preparation

Chop the broccoli into bite-sized florets.
Mix together broccoli, red onion, bacon, cashews, mandarin oranges, and mozzarella (if using) in a large bowl.
In a separate bowl combine vinegar, sugar, oil, and mayo. Whisk in the salt and pepper.
Pour over broccoli mixture and toss to coat.
Best if made a day ahead.