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Easy Creamy Broccoli Bacon Salad (No Mayo!)

creamy no-mayo broccoli bacon salad - featured image
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A creamy, crunchy, and tangy broccoli bacon salad made without mayonnaise. This quick 15-minute recipe uses Greek yogurt for a lighter, healthier dressing that’s perfect for potlucks, barbecues, and weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 2 medium heads)
  • 8 slices thick-cut bacon
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1/2 cup red onion, finely diced
  • 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
  • 1/3 cup dried cranberries
  • 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (full fat recommended)
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the bacon: Lay strips in a cold skillet and turn heat to medium. Cook slowly, flipping occasionally, until deep golden brown and crispy (8-10 minutes). Transfer to paper towels to cool, then crumble or chop into small pieces.
  2. Prep the broccoli: Wash and dry broccoli thoroughly. Cut florets into bite-sized pieces (about the size of a grape). Optionally, peel and chop some of the tender stem for extra crunch.
  3. Soak the red onion: Finely dice onion and soak in cold water for 10 minutes to remove harshness. Drain and pat dry.
  4. Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Assemble the salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine broccoli, crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar, drained red onion, sunflower seeds, and dried cranberries. Toss gently.
  6. Add dressing: Pour dressing over salad and toss until everything is well coated.
  7. Rest: Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Notes

For best results, let the salad rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. The broccoli will absorb the dressing and flavors will meld. If making more than a few hours ahead, keep dressing separate and toss just before serving to maintain crunch. Toast sunflower seeds in a dry skillet for 2 minutes for extra nutty flavor. For a keto version, omit dried cranberries and use sugar-free sweetener.

Nutrition

Keywords: broccoli bacon salad, no mayo, creamy broccoli salad, healthy broccoli salad, Greek yogurt dressing, easy side dish, potluck recipe

Find it online: https://oracooks.com/easy-creamy-broccoli-bacon-salad-no-mayo/