Broccoli Salad

This recipe comes from my wonderful friend, Brenda. Its the perfect potluck dish...I sometimes eat just this for a meal! I buy the broccoli in bulk at Costco, or Sam's club. I think it runs about $1.00 per pound that way, without the huge stalks. This salad only keeps for a couple of days....but it never lasts longer than that at our house anyway!

Broccoli Salad
2 bunches broccoli, chopped (about 5 cups?)(I cut the ends of the stems off)
1 cup cheddar cheese, grated
1/2 cup onion, grated (Purple is best, yellow or white are fine too.)
1/2 cup slivered almonds OR sunflower seeds
1 cup mayonnaise
1/3 cup sugar
2 Tbsp apple cider vinegar
1/4 cup raisins (optional)
4-6 slices crisp bacon (optional)
Toast the almonds or sunflower seeds in a dry, heavy pan over medium heat, until very light brown. Stir frequently and watch to make sure they don't burn. Set aside in a bowl to cool. In another bowl, combine mayonnaise, sugar, and vinegar. Whisk well. In a large bowl, stir together the broccoli, cheese, onion, and cooled nuts. Fold in the dressing. Cover and chill at least 1 hour.