Print

Creamy Broccoli Salad With Crispy Bacon

creamy broccoli salad with crispy bacon - featured image

A refreshing and crunchy summer salad combining fresh broccoli, crispy bacon, and a tangy creamy dressing. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, and quick weeknight meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped into bite-sized pieces
  • 8 slices thick-cut bacon, cooked until crisp and crumbled
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
  • 1/2 cup toasted sunflower seeds or slivered almonds
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries or raisins (optional)
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Rinse 4 cups of fresh broccoli florets under cold water, then pat dry thoroughly. Chop into bite-sized pieces.
  2. Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook 8 slices of thick-cut bacon until crispy but not burnt, about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain on paper towels and crumble once cooled.
  3. Toast 1/2 cup of sunflower seeds or slivered almonds in the same skillet over medium heat until lightly golden and fragrant, about 3 minutes, stirring frequently.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt, 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, and 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
  5. In a large bowl, combine broccoli, crumbled bacon, 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion, toasted seeds or nuts, and 1/2 cup dried cranberries or raisins if using.
  6. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently until evenly coated.
  7. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

Dry broccoli thoroughly to prevent watery salad. Cook bacon to a crisp but not burnt. Toast seeds or nuts for extra crunch and flavor. Chill salad for at least 30 minutes before serving for best taste. Can substitute Greek yogurt with dairy-free coconut yogurt for dairy-free option. Bacon can be baked instead of fried for less mess.

Nutrition

Keywords: broccoli salad, creamy broccoli salad, bacon salad, summer salad, easy salad recipe, picnic salad, barbecue side dish