If you’re craving a vibrant, crunchy side that’s as nourishing as it is delicious, this Low Carb Broccoli Salad Recipe is about to become your new favorite! Packed with fresh broccoli and cauliflower florets, smoky bacon, sharp Colby Jack cheese, and a creamy, tangy dressing, it’s a perfect balance of textures and flavors. What I adore most is how effortless it is to whip up, yet it always impresses at family dinners or casual get-togethers. Plus, it’s wonderfully keto-friendly, making it an ideal choice if you’re watching your carb intake without sacrificing taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for this salad is delightfully simple, yet each one plays a crucial role in delivering that perfect harmony of flavor and texture. From fresh, crunchy veggies to the rich creaminess of the dressing and the savory crunch of bacon, every element matters.
- 3/4 cup plain Greek yogurt: Adds a creamy tang and healthier protein boost to the dressing.
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise: Provides rich creaminess that balances the yogurt’s tartness.
- 1/2 cup clover honey: Offers a natural sweetness to bring the dressing to life.
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar: Adds a lively acidity that brightens the entire salad.
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (optional): Enhances sweetness but can be skipped for a less sweet version.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Seasons the salad perfectly.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle bite to the dressing.
- 4 cups broccoli florets (chopped): Creates the crunchy, fresh base of the salad.
- 4 cups cauliflower florets (chopped): Adds subtle flavor and visual variety.
- 12 slices bacon (cooked and crumbled): Brings a smoky, savory crunch essential for depth of flavor.
- 8 ounces Colby Jack cheese (cut into small cubes): Provides creamy, mild cheesiness that melts in your mouth.
- 1 red onion (peeled and chopped): Adds a sharp, zesty kick and vibrant color.
How to Make Low Carb Broccoli Salad Recipe
Step 1: Whip Up the Dressing
Start by grabbing a medium mixing bowl and whisk together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, clover honey, red wine vinegar, granulated sugar (if using), salt, and black pepper. This combo forms the luscious dressing that will coat every bite with creamy, tangy, sweet goodness. Cover the bowl and pop it into the fridge while you prep the veggies and mix-ins.
Step 2: Combine the Veggies and Cheese
In a large mixing bowl, toss together the chopped broccoli and cauliflower florets, half of the crispy bacon crumbles, cubes of Colby Jack cheese, and the chopped red onion. These fresh, crunchy ingredients kick off the base of the salad, ready to be dressed up with that irresistible sauce.
Step 3: Dress and Toss the Salad
Pour the chilled dressing over the broccoli mixture, then gently toss everything together, making sure every bit is coated with that flavorful dressing. The mix of creamy dressing and crunchy veggies is pure magic, and the cheese and bacon bits dispersed throughout add the perfect bursts of flavor.
Step 4: Add Final Bacon Topping and Serve
To finish, sprinkle the rest of the bacon on top for an extra pop of smoky crunch. Serve this salad right away to enjoy the crisp veggies and creamy dressing in perfect harmony, or chill briefly to meld the flavors even more.
How to Serve Low Carb Broccoli Salad Recipe
Garnishes
Feel free to jazz up your Low Carb Broccoli Salad Recipe by sprinkling some toasted sunflower seeds or slivered almonds on top for additional crunch and nuttiness. Fresh chopped herbs like parsley or chives also lend freshness and a pop of green that looks as vibrant as it tastes.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats such as chicken, steak, or pork chops, making it a perfect low carb accompaniment for any barbecue or weeknight dinner. It also shines alongside a simple baked salmon or roasted turkey breast for a wholesome meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the salad in hollowed-out mini bell peppers or avocado halves for individual portions. You can also layer the salad in glass jars for an on-the-go option that stays fresh and looks stunning.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Low Carb Broccoli Salad Recipe stores wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the bacon topping separate if you want to maintain its crispiness, adding it fresh before serving.
Freezing
This salad does not freeze well due to the fresh vegetables and creamy dressing, which can separate and become watery upon thawing. Best to enjoy it fresh or refrigerated for a few days.
Reheating
Since this salad is best served cold or at room temperature, reheating is not recommended. Instead, just let refrigerated leftovers sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before serving to allow flavors to come alive again.
FAQs
Can I substitute the bacon for a vegetarian option?
Absolutely! You can swap out the bacon for smoked tempeh, crispy roasted chickpeas, or even toasted nuts to keep that delightful crunch and smoky flavor without meat.
Is this Low Carb Broccoli Salad Recipe suitable for keto diets?
Yes, it fits perfectly into a keto lifestyle thanks to the low-carb veggies and high-fat dressing, especially if you omit the optional sugar.
Can I use frozen broccoli and cauliflower instead of fresh?
It’s best to use fresh broccoli and cauliflower to maintain the crunchy texture. Frozen veggies can become soggy once thawed, altering the salad’s delightful bite.
How far in advance can I prepare this salad?
You can prepare the salad a few hours ahead of time, keeping the bacon separate until just before serving to preserve its crispness. It’s a great make-ahead dish for busy days.
What can I use instead of Colby Jack cheese?
Mild cheeses like Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even cheddar work well as substitutes, providing similar texture and flavor balance.
Final Thoughts
This Low Carb Broccoli Salad Recipe has a special place on my table because it’s quick to make, packed with flavor, and endlessly versatile. Whether you’re gearing up for a potluck or looking to brighten up a weekday meal, it’s the kind of dish everyone will ask you to bring again. Give it a try and watch it become your new go-to salad that’s as wholesome as it is tasty.
Print
Low Carb Broccoli Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Carb
Description
This Low Carb Broccoli Salad is a fresh, crunchy, and flavorful side dish perfect for those looking to maintain a low carb lifestyle. It combines crisp broccoli and cauliflower florets with a creamy honey-mayo Greek yogurt dressing, enhanced by crispy bacon, sharp Colby Jack cheese, and a hint of red onion for a perfect balance of textures and tastes. Quick to prepare with no cooking required beyond bacon, it’s ideal for easy weeknight meals or potluck gatherings.
Ingredients
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
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
- Make the dressing: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, clover honey, red wine vinegar, granulated sugar, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well combined. Cover and refrigerate the dressing while preparing the rest of the salad to allow flavors to meld.
- Combine salad ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the chopped broccoli and cauliflower florets. Then add half of the cooked and crumbled bacon, the cubed Colby Jack cheese, and the chopped red onion. Gently mix these ingredients together to distribute evenly.
- Add dressing and toss: Pour the chilled dressing over the salad ingredients in the large bowl. Toss thoroughly but gently to coat all components with the creamy dressing, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
- Top and serve: Sprinkle the remaining crumbled bacon on top for added crunch and flavor. Serve the salad immediately for the freshest texture, or refrigerate for a short while if preferred chilled before serving.
Notes
- For an extra crunch, you can add chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts.
- This salad can be made a few hours ahead and stored in the refrigerator, but best served within 24 hours to maintain freshness.
- Omitting the sugar keeps it lower in carbs if following a stricter low-carb diet.
- Bacon can be baked in the oven or fried in a pan according to personal preference.
- You can swap Colby Jack cheese for cheddar or any preferred hard cheese.
