Loaded Broccoli Salad Recipe
Introduction
Loaded Broccoli Salad is a fresh, crunchy, and flavorful dish packed with broccoli, cauliflower, bacon, cheese, and a creamy honey yogurt dressing. It’s perfect as a side for gatherings or a light lunch. This easy-to-make salad combines vibrant textures and a delightful balance of savory and sweet.
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
- 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 while you prepare the salad.
- Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, cauliflower, half of the crumbled bacon, Colby Jack cheese, and diced red onion.
- Step 3: Pour the prepared dressing over the salad and toss well to coat all ingredients evenly.
- 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 coconut yogurt or avocado mayo.
- Reduce sugar by using a sugar-free sweetener instead of honey and omitting the optional sugar.
- Add crunch with toasted almonds, sunflower seeds, or pecans.
- Try different cheeses such as cheddar, feta, or blue cheese for new flavors.
- Add protein like grilled chicken or hard-boiled eggs to turn it into a full meal.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best texture, keep the salad dressing separate if possible and toss just before serving. Reheat is not recommended, as the salad is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use pre-cooked bacon for this salad?
Yes, pre-cooked bacon works great and saves time. Just crumble it as directed and add to the salad.
Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely. Prepare the dressing and chop the vegetables in advance. Combine and toss with dressing just before serving to keep it fresh and crunchy.
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Loaded Broccoli Salad Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
Loaded Broccoli Salad is a vibrant, crunchy, and creamy salad featuring fresh broccoli and cauliflower florets tossed with a tangy honey-mayo Greek yogurt dressing, crispy bacon, and cubes of Colby Jack cheese. It’s a perfect dish for potlucks, picnics, or a quick and delicious lunch that balances fresh vegetables with savory and sweet flavors.
Ingredients
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
Instructions
- 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.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, cauliflower, half of the crumbled bacon, Colby Jack cheese, and diced red onion.
- Mix Everything Together: Pour the prepared dressing over the salad and toss well to coat all the ingredients evenly.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the remaining bacon on top for a crispy finish. Serve immediately, or cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Notes
- Make it Dairy-Free: Swap Greek yogurt and mayo for a dairy-free alternative like coconut yogurt or avocado mayo.
- Lower the Sugar: Use a sugar-free sweetener instead of honey and omit the optional sugar.
- Add More Crunch: Toss in some toasted almonds, sunflower seeds, or pecans for extra texture.
- Try a Different Cheese: Swap Colby Jack for cheddar, feta, or blue cheese for a twist in flavor.
- Add Protein: Want to make it a full meal? Add grilled chicken or hard-boiled eggs for extra protein.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes (for cooking bacon)
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: broccoli salad, loaded broccoli salad, creamy broccoli salad, bacon broccoli salad, honey mayo dressing, summer salad, potluck recipe
