Connie--we used a square hand shredder. It did take a while, which was kind of a PITA. The salad actually was very good, and our guests enjoyed it. I personally would say that when I make it again, I would probably add a bit less bacon, as it seemed a little heavy on bacon to me. I asked for honest assessments, and one of my guests said she thought it had a bit too much onion, but that may have been because I couldn't get the onion very small by shredding it. I might just chop the onion in future. Finally, even though it seems odd for such words to pass my mouth, I thought it might have had a tad too much cheese.. Seemed a tad greasy, but again, that may well have been a function of the bacon. Overall, really enjoyed it and would make it again!