Lakehouse Broccoli Salad

Heat a large pot of salted water to a vigorous boil. Add broccoli; when water returns to boiling, cook 30 seconds, then drain immediately and shower with cold water until completely cool (if you can, plunge the broccoli into a pot of ice water after draining and rinsing). Drain the broccoli very well in a colander for 15 minutes.

While the broccoli cools, combine dressing ingredients in a small bowl; set aside.

Cook bacon over medium heat until crisp, stirring frequently. Drain well, discarding bacon drippings. Combine cooked bacon, onion, nuts and raisins in a very large bowl.

When the broccoli has drained well, add to the bacon mixture and combine gently with your hands or a wooden spoon. Add the cheese and dressing, stirring gently to combine.

Cover and refrigerate 1 hour before serving.

Yield: 6 to 8 servings.

Source: Clarion-Ledger - Jackson, Ms