Loaded Broccoli Salad Recipe

Introduction

This Loaded Broccoli Salad is a delightful combination of fresh vegetables, creamy dressing, and crispy bacon that makes for a perfect side or light meal. It’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor and texture that everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 3/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup clover honey
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 4 cups broccoli florets, chopped
• 4 cups cauliflower florets, chopped
• 12 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 8 ounces Colby Jack cheese, cut into small cubes
• 1 red onion, peeled and chopped

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, honey, red wine vinegar, sugar (if using), salt, and black pepper until smooth. Cover and refrigerate the dressing while preparing the salad.
2. Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, cauliflower, half of the crumbled bacon, Colby Jack cheese, and diced red onion.
3. Step 3: Pour the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients and toss well to coat everything evenly.
4. Step 4: Sprinkle the remaining bacon on top for a crispy finish. Serve immediately, or cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Tips & Variations

• Make it dairy-free by swapping Greek yogurt and mayonnaise for alternatives like coconut yogurt or avocado mayo.
• Lower the sugar by substituting honey with a sugar-free sweetener and omitting the optional granulated sugar.
• Add extra crunch with toasted almonds, sunflower seeds, or pecans.
• Try different cheeses such as cheddar, feta, or blue cheese for unique flavor twists.
• Add protein like grilled chicken or hard-boiled eggs to make it a complete meal.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad remains fresh and flavorful but may benefit from a quick toss before serving to redistribute the dressing. For best texture, consider storing the dressing separately and mixing it in just before serving to keep the vegetables crisp.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dressing and chop the vegetables in advance. For optimal freshness, store the dressing separately and combine it with the salad ingredients right before serving.

What can I use instead of bacon?

If you prefer a vegetarian option or want to cut back on fat, try using roasted chickpeas, toasted nuts, or smoked tempeh as a flavorful substitute for bacon.

Loaded Broccoli Salad Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 60 reviews

• Author: Olivia
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

A vibrant and crunchy Loaded Broccoli Salad featuring fresh broccoli and cauliflower florets, crispy bacon, tangy Colby Jack cheese, and a creamy, slightly sweet dressing made from Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, honey, and red wine vinegar. This easy-to-make salad is perfect as a side dish or a light meal and can be customized to suit various dietary preferences.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Dressing:

• 3/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup clover honey
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Salad:

• 4 cups broccoli florets, chopped
• 4 cups cauliflower florets, chopped
• 12 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 8 ounces Colby Jack cheese, cut into small cubes
• 1 red onion, peeled and chopped

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Dressing: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, honey, red wine vinegar, sugar (if using), salt, and black pepper. Stir until smooth. Cover and refrigerate while preparing the salad to allow flavors to meld.
2. Assemble the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, cauliflower, half of the crumbled bacon, Colby Jack cheese cubes, and diced red onion. Toss gently to mix.
3. Mix Everything Together: Pour the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients and toss well to coat everything evenly, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
4. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the remaining bacon on top of the salad for an extra crispy texture and appealing presentation. Serve immediately or cover and refrigerate until ready to enjoy.

Notes

• Make it Dairy-Free: Swap Greek yogurt and mayonnaise for dairy-free alternatives like coconut yogurt and avocado mayo.
• Lower the Sugar: Replace honey with a sugar-free sweetener and omit the optional granulated sugar.
• Add More Crunch: Include toasted almonds, sunflower seeds, or pecans to introduce additional texture.
• Try Different Cheese: Substitute Colby Jack with cheddar, feta, or blue cheese for a flavor twist.
• Add Protein: Enhance the salad by incorporating grilled chicken or hard-boiled eggs for a complete meal.
• Storage Tip: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir before serving to redistribute dressing.
• Pro Tip: For best texture, keep dressing separate if making ahead and combine just before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: Broccoli Salad, Loaded Salad, Bacon Salad, Healthy Salad, Greek Yogurt Dressing, Summer Salad, Easy Salad Recipe, Gluten-Free Salad