Loaded Broccoli Salad

This is the broccoli salad you will get special requests for. The combination of bacon, sour cream, mayonnaise, scallions and Cheddar is hard to resist. And the addition of rice vinegar or cider vinegar sharpens all the flavors.
Ingredients: 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 1 large head)
6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
½ cup sour cream
½ cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons rice vinegar or cider vinegar
¼ cup chopped scallions (green onions)
¼ cup sunflower seeds (optional, for extra crunch)
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions: Prepare the broccoli: Cut the broccoli into bite-sized florets. You can blanch the broccoli in boiling water for 1-2 minutes to slightly soften it, then drain and cool (optional). Cook the bacon: In a pan, cook the bacon until crispy. Once cooled, crumble it into small pieces. Make the dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, and vinegar until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Assemble the salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the broccoli, crumbled bacon, Cheddar cheese, scallions, and sunflower seeds (if using). Mix everything: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is evenly coated. Chill and serve: Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Enjoy your delicious Loaded Broccoli Salad!