This is my basic recipe for broccoli salad, one that I've used for years.
The secret is in the dressing. I got this tip years ago from Bobbie Momberger in New York: thin your mayonnaise with maple syrup and vinegar to make a sweet/sour dressing.

 

Ruth's Broccoli Salad

2 heads of fresh broccoli
raisins
3 slices bacon, fried and crumbled (optional)
peanuts or sunflower seeds
mayonnaise
vinegar
maple syrup

1. Combine mayonnaise with vinegar and syrup to taste. Set aside.

2. Chop broccoli into bite-sized pieces.
3. Stir in peanuts and/or seeds and raisins to taste.
4. Mix dressing into salad. Top with crumbled bacon.


Allow to marinate for several hours or overnight.