🥦 Broccoli Salad – A Crunchy, Creamy, and Flavor-Packed Side! 🧀🥓
This refreshing salad combines crisp broccoli, smoky bacon, and a creamy dressing, making it the perfect side dish for potlucks, BBQs, or meal prep!
📝 Ingredients:
Salad:
✅ 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (chopped into bite-sized pieces) 🥦
✅ ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese 🧀
✅ ¼ cup red onion, finely diced 🧅
✅ ½ cup crispy bacon, crumbled 🥓
✅ ¼ cup sunflower seeds or chopped almonds 🌻
✅ ½ cup dried cranberries or raisins 🍇
Dressing:
✅ ½ cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option) 🥄
✅ 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar 🍏
✅ 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup 🍯
✅ ¼ tsp salt & black pepper (to taste) 🧂
👩🍳 Instructions:
1️⃣ Prep the Broccoli – Wash and chop the broccoli into bite-sized pieces. If you prefer a softer texture, blanch the broccoli in boiling water for 1 minute, then drain and cool.
2️⃣ Make the Dressing – In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3️⃣ Assemble the Salad – In a large bowl, combine broccoli, cheese, red onion, bacon, sunflower seeds, and cranberries.
4️⃣ Mix It Up! – Pour the dressing over the salad and toss well to coat everything evenly.
5️⃣ Chill & Serve – Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors blend. Enjoy!
📌 Notes & Tips:
✅ Want a lighter version? Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise.
✅ Make it vegetarian by skipping the bacon or using crispy chickpeas instead.
✅ Prefer a nutty crunch? Swap sunflower seeds for almonds, pecans, or walnuts.
✅ Meal Prep Friendly – Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge.
📊 Nutritional Info (Per Serving, Approximate):
- Calories: ~220 kcal
- Protein: ~8g
- Carbs: ~18g
- Fats: ~14g
- Fiber: ~3g
🌟 Health Benefits:
✔ Rich in Fiber & Antioxidants – Broccoli, cranberries, and seeds are great for digestion & immunity.
✔ High in Protein & Healthy Fats – Bacon, cheese, and seeds add essential nutrients.
✔ Supports Digestion – Apple cider vinegar & fiber help with gut health.
✔ Low-Carb & Keto-Friendly (if you skip the cranberries & honey).
❓ Q&A:
💡 Can I make this ahead of time?
- Yes! It actually tastes better after chilling for a few hours as the flavors meld together.
💡 Can I use frozen broccoli?
- Fresh is best, but if using frozen, thaw and drain well before mixing.
💡 What can I serve this with?
- Perfect with grilled chicken, steak, salmon, or as a side at BBQs!
Enjoy this easy, delicious, and refreshing Broccoli Salad for your next gathering or meal prep! 🥦💚✨