Elegant Broccoli Salad

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 large clump of banded together broccoli, trimmed to bite-sized florets
• 3 stalks of celery, chopped into 1/4" pieces
• 4 green onions, chopped into 1/4" pieces
• 1 cup yellow raisins
• 2 cups red seedless grapes, whole or halved if large
• 1/2 lb. cheddar cheese, large shredded or cut into 1/2" cubes
• 1 cup almonds, slivered or sliced

• 1/2 lb. lean bacon, fried to crispy and then crumbled.

• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 1/3 c. sugar
• 1 tablespoon vinegar

DIRECTIONS:

1. Thoroughly wash broccoli, celery and onions.  Prepare them as directed above.  Put all in a mixing bowl-- add raisins and washed grapes.
2. Add FRIED/CRISPY bacon pieces, almonds and prepared cheese.  Toss to combine. Set this combination aside while you prepare the dressing as follows.
3. In a separate container, combine the mayonnaise, sugar and vinegar.    Stir this until you can tell by the 'grain-i-ness' that the sugar is dissolving.
4. Pour over veggie mix, and stir to coat.  Cover tightly and chill for a few hours before serving.