Best Vegan Broccoli Salad

**Introduction
This vibrant and nutrient-packed vegan broccoli salad is a delicious way to enjoy fresh veggies. It’s crunchy, creamy, and full of flavor, making it a perfect side dish or a light main course. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue, potluck, or looking for a healthy meal prep option, this salad is easy to make and guaranteed to impress both vegans and non-vegans alike.

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**Ingredients:
– 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 1 large head)
– ½ cup shredded carrots
– ¼ cup red onion, finely diced
– ½ cup dried cranberries or raisins
– ½ cup sunflower seeds or chopped almonds
– ¼ cup vegan bacon bits (optional)

*For the Dressing:

– ½ cup vegan mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon maple syrup or agave nectar
– ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste

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**Directions:**
1. **Prepare the Broccoli:**
– Wash and dry the broccoli thoroughly. Cut it into bite-sized florets and place them in a large mixing bowl.

2. **Combine the Salad Ingredients:**
– Add the shredded carrots, diced red onion, dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, and vegan bacon bits (if using) to the bowl with the broccoli. Toss to combine.

3. **Make the Dressing:**
– In a small bowl, whisk together the vegan mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.

4. **Assemble the Salad:**

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