Loaded Broccoli Salad is a vibrant, crunchy, and creamy side dish that has earned its place at potlucks, BBQs, and family gatherings. It combines crisp broccoli florets with smoky bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, sweet dried cranberries, and crunchy sunflower seeds, all coated in a tangy-sweet creamy dressing.
FULL RECIPE
Ingredients
- 6 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 8 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup dried cranberries
- ½ cup sunflower seeds (hulled)
- ½ cup red onion, finely diced
1.For the Dressing:
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey (or sugar)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Directions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the broccoli florets, crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, and red onion.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well combined.
- Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
- Before serving, give the salad a final toss and adjust seasoning if needed.
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 310
- Total Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 28mg
- Sodium: 390mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 17g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 10g
- Protein: 8g
Nutritional Value of Loaded Broccoli Salad
Loaded Broccoli Salad is not only flavorful but also offers a variety of essential nutrients. Broccoli is a powerhouse vegetable, rich in vitamins C and K, dietary fiber, and antioxidants that support overall health. The addition of sunflower seeds provides healthy fats and vitamin E, while cheddar cheese adds calcium and protein. Bacon, though higher in fat and sodium, contributes savory depth when used in moderation. The creamy dressing provides richness, but its calorie content can be adjusted by using lighter alternatives. Overall, this salad offers a balance of macronutrients and micronutrients when enjoyed as part of a varied diet.
Health Benefits of Broccoli as the Main Ingredient
Broccoli is the star ingredient in this salad, and its health benefits are impressive. It is high in antioxidants, particularly sulforaphane, which may help reduce inflammation and support heart health. Its high fiber content aids digestion and promotes satiety, making it beneficial for weight management. The vitamin C in broccoli supports immune function and skin health, while vitamin K is essential for bone health and blood clotting. Eating raw broccoli, as in this salad, preserves many of its nutrients, making it a fresh and healthy choice for boosting your daily vegetable intake.
Balancing Indulgence with Nutrition
While the salad contains indulgent elements like bacon, cheese, and a creamy dressing, these can be enjoyed without guilt when balanced with nutrient-rich vegetables. Moderation is key—small amounts of these richer ingredients provide flavor without overwhelming the dish nutritionally. For those who want to reduce calories or fat, using turkey bacon, reduced-fat cheese, or Greek yogurt in place of mayonnaise can help create a lighter yet still satisfying version. This balance between indulgence and healthfulness makes Loaded Broccoli Salad a versatile recipe suitable for many diets.
Creative Variations to Try
One of the best aspects of Loaded Broccoli Salad is its adaptability. You can swap bacon for grilled chicken for a leaner protein or use chickpeas for a vegetarian version. Adding fresh fruits like apple slices or grapes introduces natural sweetness, while roasted nuts like almonds or pecans provide extra crunch. For a Mediterranean twist, try replacing cheddar with feta cheese and adding olives and cherry tomatoes. These variations allow you to customize the salad for different occasions, dietary needs, and flavor preferences.
Serving Suggestions for Maximum Enjoyment
Loaded Broccoli Salad is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. It works beautifully as a side dish for grilled meats, BBQ, or roasted chicken, and it can also be served as a light lunch on its own. For potlucks and picnics, it’s a crowd-pleaser that holds up well at room temperature for short periods. Serving it chilled enhances its refreshing crunch, making it ideal for summer gatherings. To elevate the presentation, consider garnishing with extra sunflower seeds or fresh herbs just before serving.
Perfect Pairings for Broccoli Salad
The flavors in Loaded Broccoli Salad pair well with a variety of main dishes and beverages. Its creamy tang balances smoky or savory grilled dishes like ribs, steak, or burgers. For lighter meals, it complements seafood such as salmon or shrimp. A crisp white wine, sparkling water with citrus, or unsweetened iced tea makes an excellent drink pairing. The sweet and salty components of the salad also make it a great partner for slightly spicy foods, creating a contrast that enhances the overall dining experience.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
One of the great advantages of this salad is that it can be made ahead of time. The flavors meld together beautifully after a few hours in the refrigerator, making it perfect for advance meal prep. For best results, store it in an airtight container and consume within 3 days. If you want to maintain maximum crunch, you can store the dressing separately and toss it with the salad just before serving. This method helps keep the broccoli crisp and the seeds from softening too much.
Making the Salad Lighter
If you’re looking to reduce the calorie content without sacrificing flavor, there are several easy modifications. Replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or a blend of yogurt and light mayo for a tangy, creamy dressing. Opt for reduced-fat cheddar or use smaller amounts of cheese to lower saturated fat. Turkey bacon can replace traditional bacon for less fat and sodium. Sweetness from honey or sugar can be scaled back or replaced with a natural sweetener like stevia. These adjustments make the salad more heart-healthy while keeping it delicious.
Conclusion
Loaded Broccoli Salad is a delicious blend of crunchy textures, creamy dressing, and a balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors. Its versatility allows for endless customization, from healthier adaptations to seasonal ingredient swaps. Whether served as a side at a backyard barbecue, part of a holiday spread, or a make-ahead weekday lunch, this salad remains a reliable crowd-pleaser.