This Low-Carb Broccoli Salad is a crunchy, tasty mix of fresh broccoli, tangy dressing, and special toppings like cheese and nuts. It’s a great side dish that is also healthy!
I love how this salad is quick to make and perfect for those busy days. Plus, it makes a colorful addition to any meal. Who knew healthy could be so delicious? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets are the star of this salad. If you’re in a pinch, you can use frozen broccoli, but fresh gives a much better crunch. Frozen needs to be thawed and drained well before using.
Bacon: For that smoky flavor, crispy bacon is key. Turkey bacon is a lighter option if you prefer, and vegetarian bacon can work too. Make sure it’s crispy for the best texture!
Mayonnaise: Full-fat mayonnaise is great for a low-carb diet, but you can substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter option. Just keep in mind it will change the flavor slightly.
Sweetener: Granulated erythritol is a good choice for a low-carb sweetener. If you want a more natural option, consider Monk Fruit sweetener. Honey can be used but it won’t be low-carb!
How Can I Get the Bacon Extra Crispy?
Getting crispy bacon can be tricky! Here’s how to do it perfectly:
- Start with a cold skillet; this helps render the fat slowly for crispy bites.
- Cook over medium heat, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking and browning.
- Once it’s crispy, drain it on paper towels to soak up any excess fat.
Keep an eye on it; it can go from perfectly crispy to burnt quickly! Crumble over the salad when it’s cooled slightly to keep it crunchy.
How to Make Low-Carb Broccoli Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Fresh Ingredients:
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 1 large head)
- 6 slices bacon
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup slivered almonds or chopped walnuts (optional)
Dressing Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (use full-fat for keto/low-carb)
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon granulated erythritol or another low-carb sweetener (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 15–20 minutes of prep time to get everything ready, plus at least 1 hour to let the salad chill in the fridge. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. In total, you’re looking at around 1 hour and 20 minutes before you can dig into this tasty salad!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Bacon:
Start by cooking the bacon. In a skillet over medium heat, fry the bacon until it’s nice and crispy, about 6-8 minutes. Once done, transfer it to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess grease. Once it’s cool, crumble the bacon into small pieces.
2. Prepare the Broccoli Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the broccoli florets, finely chopped red onion, and the slivered almonds or chopped walnuts if you’re using them. This mixture will give the salad a nice crunch.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a smaller bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, sweetener (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix until it’s smooth and creamy. This dressing is what ties all the flavors together!
4. Combine Everything:
Now it’s time to bring it all together! Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture and toss everything gently to coat. Make sure the broccoli is well-coated so you get those delicious flavors in every bite.
5. Add the Bacon:
Stir in the crumbled bacon, saving a few pieces for topping the salad later if you’d like. This will give you that beautiful presentation when you serve it!
6. Chill and Serve:
Cover the salad and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This helps the flavors blend so well together. Before serving, give it a good stir, and if you saved some bacon, sprinkle it over the top for a lovely garnish.
7. Enjoy!
Serve this Low-Carb Broccoli Salad chilled as a tasty side dish or a healthy snack. It’s perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or simply enjoying at home. Enjoy your refreshing, crunchy salad!
Can I Use Different Nuts in This Salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap the slivered almonds or walnuts with your favorite nuts, such as pecans or sunflower seeds. Just keep in mind that it may slightly change the flavor and texture!
How Long Will This Salad Last in the Fridge?
This salad can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container. However, it’s best enjoyed within the first couple of days to maintain the freshness and crunchiness of the ingredients.
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Yes! To make it vegan, you can substitute the bacon with a plant-based bacon alternative and use a vegan mayonnaise instead of regular mayonnaise and sour cream.
What Can I Serve With This Salad?
This Low-Carb Broccoli Salad pairs perfectly with grilled chicken, burgers, or fish. It also makes a great addition to picnic spreads or meal prep as a light side dish!
