My loaded broccoli salad has become such a hit at family gatherings. It's fresh crunchy and has the most amazing creamy dressing. Plus with crispy bacon cheese and lots of veggies it works perfectly as a side dish or light meal on its own.
Keeping It Light and Delicious
I love that this salad lets me enjoy all my favorite flavors while keeping things low carb. It's my go to when I want something that tastes indulgent but still fits into a healthy eating plan.
What You'll Need
- For the Dressing: I mix Greek yogurt and mayo for the perfect creamy base.
- Sweet Touch: Just a bit of sugar and honey or use your favorite sweetener.
- Vinegar: I use red wine vinegar but any kind works great.
- Fresh Veggies: Grab broccoli cauliflower and some red onion.
- Bacon: Cook it nice and crispy that's the secret.
- Cheese: Colby is my favorite but use what you love.
Let's Put It Together
- Start With The Dressing
- Mix up your yogurt mayo sweeteners and vinegar until smooth pop it in the fridge.
- Toss Your Salad
- In your biggest bowl combine all those colorful veggies bacon and cheese.
- Bring It All Together
- Pour that creamy dressing over everything give it a good toss. I like to add extra bacon on top right before serving.
Make It Your Way
Sometimes I use all mayo or swap in sour cream it's totally up to you. Adding nuts or sunflower seeds gives it an amazing crunch too.
Keeping It Low Carb
If you're watching your sugar just use your favorite low carb sweetener. I've tried stevia and monk fruit both work beautifully in the dressing.
What to Serve It With
This salad goes with everything. We love it alongside grilled chicken or burgers. It's always the first thing gone at summer BBQs.
Keeping It Fresh
Store your salad in a sealed container in the fridge. If you're making it ahead keep the dressing separate until you're ready to serve keeps everything nice and crisp.
Perfect for Gatherings
Every time I bring this to a potluck people ask for the recipe. Something about that creamy crunchy combination just works magic.
Getting Those Veggies Just Right
Make sure to dry your veggies really well after washing them. Nobody likes watery dressing and this keeps everything perfectly crisp.
Making the Dressing Lighter
Using Greek yogurt in the dressing keeps things creamy but lighter. When I want it extra rich I'll use more mayo or add some sour cream.
All The Best Flavors
There's something about tangy dressing crispy bacon and fresh veggies that just works. Each bite gives you a perfect mix of flavors.
Great for Keto
My keto friends love this salad. Just swap in your favorite low carb sweetener and use full fat ingredients it fits right into their meal plan.
Even The Kids Love It
The bacon and cheese in this salad win over even the pickiest eaters. It's my sneaky way of getting more veggies into their diet.
Quick and Easy
This is my go to when I need something fast but delicious. Comes together in no time perfect for busy days or last minute guests.
Looking Pretty
I love serving this in my favorite glass bowl the colors look so beautiful. A sprinkle of extra bacon and cheese on top makes it look extra special.
Extra Crunch Please
Sometimes I toss in some sunflower seeds or sliced almonds. That extra crunch takes it to the next level.
Even Better the Next Day
The flavors get even better after sitting in the fridge overnight. I always make extra just for leftovers.
Switch Up Your Dressing
Sometimes I use ranch or balsamic dressing for something different. This salad works with so many flavors you can't go wrong.
A Recipe to Share
This broccoli salad has become such a special part of our family meals. It's one of those recipes that brings everyone together and always leaves them smiling.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the components ahead, but add the dressing and bacon just before serving to maintain crispness. Keep ingredients separate until ready to serve.
- → How do I keep the broccoli crisp?
Use fresh broccoli and cauliflower, and don't add dressing until just before serving. This helps maintain the vegetables' natural crunch.
- → Can I use a different cheese?
Yes, you can substitute Colby Jack with cheddar, mozzarella, or your preferred cheese. Just make sure to cut it into small, bite-sized cubes.
- → Is this really low carb with honey?
For a lower carb version, you can reduce or omit the honey and sugar in the dressing. The vegetables themselves are naturally low in carbs.
- → How long will leftovers keep?
Dressed salad will keep for 1-2 days in the refrigerator, though the vegetables may lose some crispness. For best results, eat within 24 hours.