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Loaded Broccoli Salad Recipe

4.6 from 640 reviews

This Loaded Broccoli Salad is a vibrant, crunchy side dish featuring fresh broccoli and cauliflower florets tossed with a creamy, tangy Greek yogurt and mayonnaise dressing. Enhanced with crispy bacon, Colby Jack cheese, and red onion, this salad delivers a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it a delicious addition to any meal.

Ingredients

Scale

For the 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

For the 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

  1. Prepare the Dressing: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, honey, red wine vinegar, sugar (if using), salt, and black pepper until smooth. Cover and refrigerate to allow flavors to meld while preparing the salad.
  2. Assemble the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, cauliflower, half of the crumbled bacon, Colby Jack cheese cubes, and chopped red onion. Mix gently to distribute ingredients evenly.
  3. Mix Everything Together: Pour the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients and toss thoroughly to coat all components evenly in the creamy dressing.
  4. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the remaining crumbled bacon on top for added crunch and flavor. Serve immediately or cover and refrigerate until ready to enjoy.

Notes

  • Make it Dairy-Free: Substitute Greek yogurt and mayonnaise with coconut yogurt or avocado mayo.
  • Lower the Sugar: Replace honey and optional sugar with a sugar-free sweetener.
  • Add More Crunch: Include toasted almonds, sunflower seeds, or pecans.
  • Try Different Cheese: Use cheddar, feta, or blue cheese instead of Colby Jack.
  • Add Protein: Incorporate grilled chicken or hard-boiled eggs to make it a full meal.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; toss before serving to redistribute dressing.
  • For crispier veggies when making ahead, store dressing separately and mix in before serving.

Keywords: broccoli salad, loaded salad, creamy dressing, bacon salad, side dish, easy salad recipe, summer salad