Loaded Broccoli Salad Recipe

I discovered a delightful low carb broccoli salad bursting with the crisp freshness of broccoli and cauliflower, accented by smoky bacon and sharp cheddar. The zesty dressing and optional sunflower seeds create a crunchy, tangy finish. Every bite delivers a harmonious blend of textures and flavors that truly captivates me.

I’ve been playing around in the kitchen lately and came up with this loaded broccoli salad that’s quickly become one of my favorite low carb side dishes. I mixed 4 cups of fresh broccoli florets with 2 cups of cauliflower florets and tossed in 6 crispy bacon slices that were crumbled, along with a hint of finely diced 1/2 small red onion for that extra bite.

The salad really pops when I sprinkle in 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and 1/4 cup of sunflower seeds, which add a really nice crunch. The homemade dressing, made with 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, a teaspoon of low-carb sweetener, salt and black pepper, ties everything together perfectly.

This recipe is perfect for anyone looking for something hearty yet healthy, whether you’re into keto recipes dinner style or just craving a salad side dish that’s packed with flavor. Enjoy!

Why I Like this Recipe

1. I really love how the crisp, crunchy veggies mix with the creamy dressing and it makes every bite so satisfying, even when I try to eat slowly and enjoy the flavors.
2. I dig the salty burst from the bacon and the cheddar cheese, which really brings out a fun, savory flavor that makes the dish feel a little like a treat but still healthy.
3. I appreciate that the dressing is super easy to whip up and balances out the tangy apple cider vinegar with the slight sweetness, which gives it that extra kick I crave.
4. I like that it’s a low-carb side dish that still feels indulgent, so I can feel good about eating it and still enjoy something yummy and crunchy after a meal.

Ingredients

• Broccoli: It’s packed with fiber and vitamins, making it a crunchy and healthy addition.
• Cauliflower: This veggie is low in carbs and adds a light, crisp texture that’s really refreshing.
• Bacon: Loaded with protein and salt, it gives the salad a killer savory flavor boost.
• Red onion: Offers a tangy bite along with some extra fiber, enhancing the overall taste.
• Cheddar cheese: Adds protein and creaminess that melds the ingredients together nicely.
• Sunflower seeds: Optional but they introduce a fun crunch and a bit of healthy fats.
• Apple cider vinegar with sweetener: Balances out the richness with a sweet, tangy zing.

Ingredient Quantities

• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 1 large head)
• 2 cups cauliflower florets
• 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1/2 small red onion, finely diced
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup sunflower seeds (optional, but adds a nice crunch)
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon low-carb sweetener (like erythritol)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

How to Make this

1. Start by rinsing the broccoli and cauliflower florets and patting them dry, then place them in a big bowl.

2. Toss in the finely diced red onion and add the crumbled bacon over the veggies.

3. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and, if using, the sunflower seeds over the mix.

4. In a separate small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, low-carb sweetener, salt and pepper.

5. Whisk the dressing until it’s smooth and well blended.

6. Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture and gently toss until everything is evenly coated.

7. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it chill in the fridge for at least an hour so all the flavors can come together.

8. Give it a stir after chilling to make sure the dressing hasn’t settled too much.

9. Taste and adjust with extra salt and pepper if needed.

10. Serve it as a side dish and enjoy your crunchy, creamy, loaded broccoli salad!

Equipment Needed

1. Large mixing bowl
2. Colander
3. Cutting board
4. Knife
5. Small mixing bowl
6. Whisk
7. Measuring cups and spoons
8. Plastic wrap
9. Refrigerator

These items should cover everything needed to get the recipe done.

FAQ

Loaded Broccoli Salad Recipe Substitutions and Variations

• You can swap the bacon for turkey bacon or even some lean ham if you want a less greasy flavor.
• If you don’t have red onion, try using shallots or even chives for a milder bite.
• Instead of cheddar cheese, you might use pepper jack or even a bit of Swiss cheese for a different twist.
• You can replace apple cider vinegar with lemon juice or white vinegar if that’s what you’ve got in your kitchen.
• Mayonnaise can be switched out for Greek yogurt if you’re looking for a tangier, lighter dressing.

Pro Tips

1. Try to toast the sunflower seeds in a dry pan for a few minutes before tossing them in. This really brings out their flavor and makes the salad crunchier.
2. Let the salad chill for at least an hour. This waiting time really helps the flavors blend together, so dont skip it even if you’re in a rush.
3. If you find the mayo a bit heavy, you can mix in a spoonful of Greek yogurt. It lightens the dressing without compromising on the tang.
4. Make sure your veggies are completely dry after washing. Any extra water can make the dressing runny and the salad soggy.