Broccoli and Bacon Bliss Salad

πŸ•’ Prep: 20 min
πŸ”₯ Cook:
🍽 Serves: 6
β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…
Be the First to Review!

Welcome to a scrumptious adventure with our Broccoli and Bacon Bliss Salad! This recipe brings together the crunch of fresh veggies and the savory goodness of bacon, all wrapped up in a creamy dressing. Perfect for any season, it’s a delightful addition to your meal rotation.

Ingredients for Broccoli and Bacon Bliss Salad

Broccoli forms the crunchy, nutritious base of this salad, offering fiber and vitamins. Bacon adds a savory punch and crispy texture that complements the veggies. Dried cranberries introduce a sweet and tangy contrast, while sliced almonds bring a nutty flavor and extra crunch. The red onion provides a sharp, pungent note that balances the sweetness. The dressing, made with Greek yogurt, is both creamy and tangy, thanks to apple cider vinegar and a touch of honey for sweetness. A dash of salt and pepper enhances all the flavors.

Tips & Tricks

  • For added flavor, roast the almonds lightly before adding them to the salad.
  • Use a salad spinner to make sure the broccoli is dry after washing, so the dressing sticks better.
  • If you’re short on time, prepare the salad ingredients ahead but add the dressing just before serving to keep everything crisp.

Serving Suggestions

This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish, making it a great side for a summer barbecue. It also works well as a light lunch on its own or served with a slice of rustic bread for a heartier meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this salad vegan?
Yes, simply swap the bacon for smoked tempeh and use a plant-based yogurt for the dressing.
How long can I store this salad?
It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days, though it's best enjoyed fresh.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Fresh broccoli is recommended for the best texture, but if using frozen, be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly.

Broccoli and Bacon Bliss Salad Recipe Walkthrough

Start by gathering all your ingredients and a large mixing bowl. Toss in the broccoli florets, making sure they're in bite-sized pieces. Next, crumble the cooked bacon into the bowl. If you like bigger bacon bits, leave them chunkier for more texture.

Add the dried cranberries and sliced almonds to the mix; these will add a delightful sweetness and crunch. Then, chop the red onion finely β€” you want just enough to add flavor without overpowering the salad. Stir these all together until they’re well distributed.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, and honey. Sprinkle in some salt and pepper to taste. Keep whisking until the dressing is smooth and well combined.

Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture and toss everything until it's evenly coated. This is where the magic happens, as the dressing pulls all those flavors together. Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • A perfect balance of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors.
  • Quick and easy to whip up β€” perfect for busy days.
  • Great for potlucks or as a hearty side dish.
  • Packed with nutrients, thanks to fresh broccoli and almonds.

Ingredients

4 cups broccoli florets
6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
1/2 cup dried cranberries
1/2 cup sliced almonds
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
1 cup Greek yogurt
2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
2 tbsp honey
Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-step Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the broccoli florets, crumbled bacon, dried cranberries, sliced almonds, and chopped red onion.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld before serving.

Ratings and Comments

Thank you for your rating!