Balancing a busy career with my love for cooking can be a challenge, but recipes like this Low Carb Creamy Broccoli Salad with Bacon make it all possible. This dish is a game-changer for those who crave something hearty yet healthy. Growing up in the Midwest, broccoli salad was a staple at family gatherings, but I’ve given it a low-carb twist with a creamy dressing that’s just as indulgent as the original. It’s perfect for meal prep, too, making your weeknights a little easier and a lot tastier.
This Low Carb Creamy Broccoli Salad with Bacon pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or steak, making it an ideal side for your next BBQ. If you’re looking for a completely veggie meal, it can be served alongside a hearty soup like tomato basil or butternut squash. Plus, it keeps well in the fridge, so you can even enjoy it as a quick lunch on its own.
Low Carb Creamy Broccoli Salad with Bacon
Servings: 6
Ingredients:
4 cups broccoli florets
6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup red onion, diced
1/2 cup sunflower seeds
Dressing:
1 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup sour cream
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tbsp erythritol (or your preferred low-carb sweetener)
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
In a large bowl, combine broccoli florets, crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, diced red onion, and sunflower seeds.
In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and erythritol until smooth to make the dressing.
Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cover and refrigerate for at least an hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
Variations & Tips:
Add Crunch: For extra crunch, toss in chopped almonds or walnuts.
Seed Alternatives: If sunflower seeds aren’t your preference, try pumpkin seeds instead.
Cheese Options: Experiment with different cheeses like Colby Jack or Monterey Jack for varied flavors.
Sweetness: If you like a touch of sweetness, consider adding a few dried cranberries, keeping in mind this will add some carbs.
Meal Pairings:
Serve alongside grilled chicken or steak for a hearty meal.
Pair with a vegetable soup like tomato basil or butternut squash for a completely veggie-centered meal.
Storage: This salad keeps well in the fridge, making it convenient for meal prep or as a quick lunch option during busy weekdays.
This recipe not only caters to low-carb preferences but also enhances the traditional broccoli salad with its creamy dressing and savory bacon. Enjoy creating and savoring this dish as part of your culinary adventures!
