CRUNCHY Healthy Broccoli Bacon Salad
This Healthy Broccoli Bacon Salad is a crunchy, creamy, protein-packed side dish made with fresh broccoli, crispy bacon, cheddar cheese, cashews, and a simple basil-garlic dressing. Perfect for healthy dinners, keto meal prep, and quick potluck sides.
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: 296kcal
Equipment
- mixing bowl
- small bowl
- strainer
- cutting board
- Chef's knife
Ingredients
- 2 cups chopped broccoli florets
- 1 cup frozen peas, blanched and cooled
- 2 cups shredded lettuce (romaine or iceberg)
- 0.5 cup chopped crispy bacon
- 1 cup diced green pepper
- 0.5 cup chopped roasted salted cashews
- 0.5 cup cubed sharp cheddar cheese
- 0.25 cup mayonnaise
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tsp dried basil
Instructions
- Blanch the frozen peas for 1–2 minutes until tender. Rinse under cold water, drain well, and pat completely dry. Chop the broccoli into small bite-sized florets.
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, minced garlic, and dried basil until smooth and creamy.
- In a large bowl, combine broccoli, cooled peas, shredded lettuce, diced green pepper, crispy bacon, cashews, and cubed cheddar.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
- Chill the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld and soften the broccoli slightly.
- Serve cold as a crunchy, protein-packed side dish.
Notes
Ensure all vegetables are fully dry before adding the dressing to avoid thinning. Cool the bacon completely for the best texture. For a lighter variation, substitute half the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt. Add dried cranberries or raisins for a sweet contrast. Do not dress the salad more than 3 hours before serving or the lettuce may soften.