This crunchy broccoli salad is packed with flavor, featuring crispy bacon and tasty cheese. A delicious mix that makes healthy eating a joy!
I love making this salad for picnics and potlucks! It’s quick to prepare, and trust me, everyone will ask for seconds—not just because of the bacon! 🥦🥓
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli is key here for that crunch! You can use frozen broccoli, but fresh gives a better texture. If you don’t have broccoli, cauliflower is a great alternative too.
Bacon: Crunchy, crispy bacon adds so much flavor! If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey bacon works well. For a meat-free version, consider using smoked paprika or liquid smoke for a similar flavor.
Dried cranberries: These add a sweet touch. You can swap them for raisins or chopped fresh apples if you’re looking for a different twist, or even leave them out if you prefer no sweetness.
Cheese: Feta provides a tangy flavor, but shredded cheddar can be a great substitute. I sometimes mix both! You could also use a dairy-free cheese for a vegan option.
Greek yogurt: This is a healthier base for the dressing. You can replace it with sour cream or a plant-based yogurt if needed. You can also try plain yogurt if you don’t have Greek on hand.
How Do I Make the Perfect Dressing?
The dressing can make or break your salad, so let’s make it fabulous! Start by mixing the Greek yogurt with the optional mayonnaise for creaminess. I like the taste of apple cider vinegar for a little zing, but lemon juice works too.
- In a small bowl, combine yogurt, mayo, vinegar (or lemon juice), and honey.
- Whisk until smooth, and then taste! Adjust with salt, pepper, or more honey if you like it sweeter.
A little tip: Give it a good whisk to incorporate air; it’ll feel lighter and tastier when you dress the salad!
Easy Healthy Broccoli Salad with Bacon and Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 2 medium heads)
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (or shredded cheddar if preferred)
For the Dressing:
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (for a healthy dressing base)
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise (optional, for creaminess)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. You’ll want to let it chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to let all the flavors come together, making the total time around 45 minutes. Perfect for a quick, nutritious dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Broccoli:
Start by rinsing the fresh broccoli thoroughly under cold water. Cut it into bite-sized florets and pat them dry with a towel to get rid of any excess moisture. This helps the salad stay crisp and fresh!
2. Mix the Salad Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the broccoli florets, crumbled bacon, finely chopped red onion, dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, and crumbled feta cheese. Give it a gentle toss so everything is mixed nicely.
3. Whisk the Dressing:
In a small bowl, add the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise (if you choose to use it), apple cider vinegar or lemon juice, and honey. Whisk them together until smooth and creamy. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste!
4. Combine Everything:
Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture. Gently toss everything together until all the ingredients are well coated with the dressing. This is where the magic happens!
5. Chill the Salad:
Cover the salad bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. Chilling helps meld the flavors and makes every bite even tastier.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once chilled, grab your salad from the fridge and give it a quick toss again before serving. Enjoy your healthy, crunchy broccoli salad as a delightful side dish or a light lunch!
Bon appétit! 🥗
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Fresh or Frozen Broccoli?
Fresh broccoli is preferred for this salad to maintain its crispy texture, but you can use frozen broccoli as a substitute. Just make sure to thaw and thoroughly drain it before mixing to avoid excess moisture.
What Can I Substitute for Bacon?
If you prefer a meat-free option, turkey bacon is a great alternative that still provides a similar flavor. You could also use smoked paprika or liquid smoke to introduce a smoky aroma without the meat.
How Should I Store Leftover Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Give it a good toss before serving again, as the dressing may settle and cause the salad to look a bit watery.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the salad a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. It’s perfect for meal prep or potlucks, as the flavors will blend beautifully over time!
