This Labor Day Loaded Broccoli Salad is a bright, bold, and flavor-packed dish that brings together crisp-tender broccoli, smoky bacon, sharp cheddar, and a tangy creamy dressing. Perfect for outdoor cookouts, potlucks, and summer picnics, this salad is both hearty and refreshing. The combination of textures crunchy veggies, chewy bacon, and creamy dressing makes it a standout side that complements grilled meats or stands alone as a satisfying dish.
FULL RECIPE
Ingredients
- 6 cups fresh broccoli florets (bite-size pieces)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- ½ cup red onion, finely diced
- ½ cup sunflower seeds or chopped almonds (optional)
- ½ cup dried cranberries or raisins
- ¾ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey (or sugar)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Directions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the broccoli florets, shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, diced red onion, sunflower seeds, and dried cranberries.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
- Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture and toss everything together until evenly coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the broccoli to slightly soften.
- Before serving, give the salad a quick toss and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve chilled as a side dish at your Labor Day gathering or barbecue.
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 320
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 14g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 8g
- Protein: 9g
- Vitamin C: 90% DV
- Calcium: 15% DV
- Iron: 8% DV
The Appeal of Broccoli in Salads
Broccoli is a star ingredient in many healthy dishes, and its role in this loaded broccoli salad is no exception. Its crunchy texture and slightly bitter, earthy flavor provide a perfect contrast to the creamy dressing and salty bacon. Broccoli is also incredibly versatile, able to be eaten raw, blanched, or lightly steamed without losing its crispness. This flexibility allows it to hold up well in salads without becoming soggy, making it a reliable vegetable for layered, hearty salads like this one.
Nutritional Benefits of Broccoli
Broccoli is packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making it a nutritional powerhouse. It’s rich in vitamin C, vitamin K, folate, and dietary fiber, supporting immune health, bone strength, and digestion. The fiber content also promotes satiety, which can aid in weight management. Including broccoli in this salad boosts the overall nutrient profile, making it not only delicious but also a health-conscious choice for gatherings or everyday meals.
The Role of Bacon and Cheddar in Flavor Building
The smoky, savory flavor of bacon and the sharpness of cheddar cheese add depth and richness to the salad. Bacon’s crisp texture contrasts beautifully with the crunch of broccoli, while cheddar provides a creamy, tangy element that complements the tangy dressing. These ingredients elevate the salad from a simple vegetable dish to a satisfying side that can stand alongside grilled meats or even serve as a light meal on its own.
Creamy Dressing: Balancing Tang and Sweetness
The dressing is key to tying all the ingredients together. Combining mayonnaise with apple cider vinegar and honey creates a perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and sweet flavors. The vinegar cuts through the richness of the mayo and cheese, while the honey adds just enough sweetness to round out the sharpness and saltiness. This balance is essential for ensuring the salad feels fresh and vibrant rather than heavy.
Textural Contrast: Seeds and Dried Fruit Add Interest
Adding sunflower seeds or chopped almonds gives the salad an extra crunch beyond the broccoli and bacon. These nuts and seeds provide a nutty flavor that pairs well with the other ingredients, while dried cranberries or raisins add bursts of chewy sweetness. This variety in texture and flavor makes each bite interesting and satisfying, preventing the salad from becoming monotonous.
Variations to Customize the Salad
This loaded broccoli salad is highly adaptable to different tastes and dietary needs. For example, swapping bacon for smoked turkey bacon or a plant-based alternative makes it more suitable for those reducing pork or following vegetarian diets. You can also experiment with different cheeses such as Monterey Jack or gouda for a milder or smokier flavor. For a dairy-free version, omit the cheese and use a vegan mayo alternative. The nuts and dried fruits can also be switched out to reflect personal preferences or seasonal availability.
Serving Suggestions for Labor Day and Beyond
This broccoli salad is a perfect companion to classic Labor Day dishes like grilled burgers, hot dogs, or barbecue ribs. It also pairs well with lighter fare such as grilled chicken or fish, providing a refreshing counterpoint to smoky and savory proteins. Because it can be made ahead and served cold, it’s ideal for outdoor picnics, potlucks, or casual family dinners, adding color and nutrition to any spread.
Storing and Preparing in Advance
One of the great advantages of this salad is how well it stores. After mixing, refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to two days, which also helps the flavors meld together. If making ahead, consider adding nuts or seeds just before serving to keep them crunchy. The salad can also be transported easily, making it a convenient option for potlucks or outdoor gatherings.
Health Considerations and Modifications
While delicious, the salad’s creamy dressing and bacon add fats and sodium that some may want to moderate. For a lighter version, reduce the mayonnaise or replace part of it with Greek yogurt, which adds protein and probiotics. Using turkey bacon or a lower-sodium bacon can also help reduce sodium intake. For those with nut allergies, simply omit the seeds or nuts without sacrificing much flavor or texture.
The Social and Cultural Significance of Labor Day Salads
Salads like this loaded broccoli salad have become a staple at American Labor Day celebrations, symbolizing community and the joy of sharing food outdoors. The combination of hearty ingredients reflects the spirit of summer cookouts and family gatherings, where convenience and flavor come together. It’s a dish that brings people together, serving as both a nutritious option and a celebration of bold, satisfying flavors.
Conclusion
Labor Day Loaded Broccoli Salad offers a delightful combination of textures and flavors that make it a standout addition to any summer meal or gathering. Its nutrient-rich ingredients paired with savory bacon, sharp cheddar, and a bright, creamy dressing create a balanced and satisfying dish. Whether served alongside grilled favorites or enjoyed on its own, this salad’s versatility, ease of preparation, and crowd-pleasing appeal make it a must-have for your holiday table and beyond.