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My family can't get enough of this crunchy broccoli mix at our get-togethers. It's got that perfect snap with the most delicious smooth sauce. And when you throw in the crispy bacon bits, cheese chunks and several vegetables, you've got something that works as a side or stands alone as a light dinner.
Fresh and Tasty Simplicity
This salad lets me enjoy all those indulgent tastes while staying on track with my low carb goals. I grab this whenever I want something that feels like a treat but doesn't mess up my healthy eating habits.
What You'll Need
- For the Dressing: I combine mayo and Greek yogurt for that perfect creamy texture.
- Sweet Touch: Add a small amount of honey and sugar or pick your preferred sweetener.
- Vinegar: Red wine vinegar works best for me but feel free to swap in whatever you have.
- Fresh Veggies: You'll want broccoli, red onion and some cauliflower too.
- Bacon: Getting it extra crispy makes all the difference.
- Cheese: I usually grab Colby but any type you enjoy will work.
Let's Put It Together
- Mix Your Dressing First
- Combine your mayo, yogurt, vinegar and sweeteners until they're nice and smooth, then let it chill in the fridge.
- Combine The Main Ingredients
- Grab your largest bowl and throw in all those bright veggies, cheese and bacon bits.
- Finish It Off
- Drizzle that chilled dressing all over and mix everything well. I always save some bacon to sprinkle on top just before we eat.
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Make It Your Way
You can go with all mayo or try sour cream instead, it's completely your call. Tossing in some crunchy sunflower seeds or nuts really takes it up a notch too.
Keeping It Low Carb
Anyone watching their carbs can just switch to their go-to sugar substitute. I've tried both monk fruit and stevia in the dressing and they work great.
What to Serve It With
This mix pairs with just about anything. We usually have it with burgers or some grilled chicken. It's always the first empty bowl at our summer cookouts.
Keeping It Fresh
Put your leftover salad in a container with a tight lid in the fridge. If you're making it for later, don't add the dressing until you're ready to eat - that way everything stays nice and crisp.
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Perfect for Gatherings
I always get asked for this recipe when I bring it to potlucks. There's just something about that mix of creamy and crunchy that gets people talking.
Getting Those Veggies Just Right
Don't skip drying your vegetables after washing them. This stops your dressing from getting watery and keeps everything perfectly crunchy.
Making the Dressing Lighter
I add Greek yogurt to make the dressing less heavy. When I want something richer, I'll use more mayo or throw in some sour cream too.
All The Best Flavors
Fresh veggies with tangy dressing and crunchy bacon just works so well together. You get all those different tastes in every single bite.
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Great for Keto
My friends on keto diets can't get enough of this dish. Just use a keto-friendly sweetener and full-fat ingredients, and it fits right into their meal plans.
Even The Kids Love It
The cheese and bacon in this mix win over even the fussiest children. It's my clever way to sneak more vegetables onto their plates.
Quick and Easy
This is what I make when I need something tasty without much effort. It comes together so fast, which is perfect when life gets busy or unexpected guests show up.
Looking Pretty
I love putting this in a clear glass bowl because the colors look amazing. Adding a bit more cheese and bacon on top just before serving makes it look really special.
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Extra Crunch Please
I often add sliced almonds or sunflower seeds for more texture. That extra bit of crunch really makes the whole thing better.
Even Better the Next Day
All the flavors mix together after a night in the fridge. I always make too much on purpose just so we can have leftovers.
Switch Up Your Dressing
Sometimes I use balsamic or ranch dressing instead. This salad works with so many different flavors you can try something new each time.
A Recipe to Share
This broccoli mix has become such an important part of our family meals. It's one of those dishes that brings everyone to the table with big smiles every time.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I prep this early?
Sure, you can get everything ready in advance. But keep the dressing and bacon separate until just before eating to keep it fresh and crunchy.
- → How to keep broccoli crisp?
Make sure to use fresh veggies, and only toss with dressing at the last minute to keep everything nice and crunchy.
- → What cheeses work here?
You can swap out Colby Jack for cheddar, mozzarella, or your go-to cheese. Just dice it small for easy bites.
- → Is honey really low carb?
For fewer carbs, skip or cut down honey and sugar in the dressing. The veggies themselves are naturally low-carb.
- → How long does it last?
If dressed, it’s best eaten within a day or two in the fridge. Without dressing, it’ll stay fresher a bit longer!