Loaded Broccoli Salad (Low) is the culinary superhero we didn’t know we needed. Imagine a colorful medley of crunchy broccoli florets, crispy bacon, and creamy dressing, all mingling together in a bowl that practically sings with flavor. This salad is not just a side dish; it’s an experience! You can smell the freshness of the ingredients, see the vibrant colors dancing together, and taste the incredible fusion of textures and flavors that will have your taste buds doing a happy dance. perfect side dish for gatherings.
Picture this: It’s Sunday afternoon, and you’re hosting a backyard barbecue. The sun is shining, laughter fills the air, and you want to impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen. Enter Loaded Broccoli Salad (Low), your trusty sidekick. pair with easy potato foil packets It’s quick to prepare, visually stunning, and utterly delicious—perfect for any occasion. With every bite, you’ll create memories that linger long after the last forkful has been devoured.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Loaded Broccoli Salad (Low) is incredibly easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining friends
- Its delightful combination of flavors makes it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering
- The bright colors and fresh ingredients make it visually appealing on any table
- Versatile enough to accompany grilled meats or stand alone as a light meal
I vividly remember bringing this Loaded Broccoli Salad (Low) to my cousin’s wedding; everyone raved about it! Who knew broccoli could steal the show? cozy dinner rolls for comfort.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Fresh Broccoli: Choose bright green florets without yellowing for maximum crunch and flavor.
- Crispy Bacon: Opt for thick-cut bacon for a satisfying crunch that complements the salad’s freshness.
- Red Onion: Use finely chopped red onion for a mild bite; soak it in water to mellow its sharpness if desired.
- Dried Cranberries: These add a sweet-tart flavor that balances nicely with the savory elements of the salad.
- Sunflower Seeds: They provide an extra crunch; lightly toast them for an enhanced nutty flavor.
- Greek Yogurt: A healthier alternative to mayo; choose plain Greek yogurt for creaminess without excess calories.
- Honey: Adds a touch of sweetness to balance the tanginess of Greek yogurt; adjust based on preference.
- Cider Vinegar: Offers acidity to brighten up all the flavors; use organic apple cider vinegar for best results.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below. glazed ham for festive meals.
Let’s Make it Together
Prep Your Ingredients: Start by washing your broccoli thoroughly under cold water. Cut off any tough stems and chop into bite-sized florets for easy munching.
Bacon Time!: Cook your bacon until it’s crispy in a skillet over medium heat. Drain on paper towels when done—it’s like giving your bacon a spa day!
Mix It Up!: In a large mixing bowl, combine broccoli florets, crumbled bacon, diced red onion, dried cranberries, and sunflower seeds. Toss gently so everything is evenly distributed.
Create The Dressing: In another bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, honey, cider vinegar, salt, and pepper until smooth. Taste it—this sauce should be like sunshine in your mouth!
Toss Together!: Pour the dressing over your broccoli mixture. Use tongs or two forks to mix everything well until all ingredients are coated with that luscious dressing.
Chill & Serve!: Cover your salad with plastic wrap and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This wait time allows flavors to meld beautifully—trust me; it’s worth it!
And there you have it! A Loaded Broccoli Salad (Low) that’s not only delicious but also visually stunning! Enjoy every crunchy bite while basking in compliments from family and friends! For more inspiration, check out this easy burrata caprese salad recipe.
You Must Know
- This Loaded Broccoli Salad (Low) is a delightful mix of textures and flavors
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on your preferences
- The vibrant colors and fresh aromas make it an eye-catching dish perfect for any gathering
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by blanching the broccoli to keep it bright green, then prepare the dressing while it cools. Toss everything together right before serving for maximum freshness.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to substitute regular mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a healthier twist. Add crispy bacon bits or nuts to enhance texture and flavor.
Storing & Reheating
Store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Avoid reheating; this salad is best enjoyed cold.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To ensure your Loaded Broccoli Salad (Low) shines, use freshly chopped herbs for vibrant flavor
- Always let your salad chill before serving to enhance taste
- For added crunch, include sunflower seeds or toasted almonds just before serving
Creating this Loaded Broccoli Salad (Low) was a game-changer at my last family BBQ; I still hear compliments floating around like confetti!
FAQ
How do I make this Loaded Broccoli Salad (Low) vegetarian?
Simply omit bacon and add extra nuts or seeds for protein and crunch.
Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?
Yes, make it a day in advance, but add dressings just before serving.
What other vegetables can I add to this salad?
Feel free to include carrots, bell peppers, or even cauliflower for variety!
Loaded Broccoli Salad (Low)
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Loaded Broccoli Salad (Low) is the ultimate side dish that combines vibrant flavors and textures into a delightful experience. With fresh broccoli, crispy bacon, and a creamy Greek yogurt dressing, this salad is not only visually stunning but also quick to prepare. Perfect for barbecues, potlucks, or weeknight dinners, it’s a crowd-pleaser that makes healthy eating enjoyable. Dive into this colorful medley of ingredients and enjoy a refreshing crunch with every bite!
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 6 slices thick-cut bacon
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Rinse broccoli under cold water; chop into bite-sized florets.
- Cook bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy; drain on paper towels.
- In a large bowl, combine broccoli florets, crumbled bacon, red onion, dried cranberries, and sunflower seeds.
- In another bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, honey, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Pour dressing over the salad mixture; toss gently to coat all ingredients.
- Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: Substitute Greek yogurt with regular mayo for a creamier texture. Add nuts or extra veggies like bell peppers or carrots for added nutrition. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days.