Loaded Broccoli Salad is a vibrant, crunchy, and creamy salad that combines fresh broccoli florets with a medley of flavorful add-ins such as crispy bacon, red onion, shredded cheese, and sweet dried cranberries or raisins. Coated in a tangy-sweet dressing made from mayonnaise, vinegar, and a touch of sugar, this salad balances textures and flavors perfectly.

FULL RECIPE

Ingredients

• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
• ½ cup red onion, finely chopped
• 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup dried cranberries or raisins
• ½ cup sunflower seeds or slivered almonds (optional)
• ¾ cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

1. In a large bowl, combine broccoli florets, red onion, bacon, shredded cheddar, dried cranberries, and sunflower seeds.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and sugar until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the flavor balance as needed.
5. Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve chilled as a side dish or part of a salad bar.

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 310
• Total Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Cholesterol: 25mg
• Sodium: 420mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 18g
• Dietary Fiber: 4g
• Sugars: 9g
• Protein: 8g

Nutritional Benefits of Broccoli

Broccoli is the star ingredient in this salad, and it offers a wealth of health benefits. Rich in vitamins C, K, and A, it supports immune health, bone strength, and vision. It’s also high in fiber, which promotes digestive health and helps maintain stable blood sugar levels. Additionally, broccoli contains powerful antioxidants, such as sulforaphane, which may help protect against chronic diseases and inflammation. Incorporating raw broccoli into salads like this one preserves most of its nutrients, making it a wholesome and crunchy foundation for any meal.

The Role of Bacon

Bacon adds a smoky, savory flavor and crispy texture that contrasts beautifully with the fresh crunch of broccoli. While high in fat and sodium, its inclusion in moderation can elevate the salad’s flavor profile and create a satisfying, indulgent bite. Many people choose to cook the bacon until extra crispy, ensuring it maintains its texture when tossed with creamy dressing. For those seeking a lighter option, turkey bacon or a plant-based bacon alternative can be used to reduce fat while still adding a similar savory punch.

Cheese: Creaminess and Flavor

Shredded cheddar cheese contributes both flavor and richness to Loaded Broccoli Salad. Its sharpness complements the sweetness of dried cranberries or raisins and balances the tangy dressing. Cheese also adds protein and calcium, making the salad more satiating. While cheddar is classic, variations using mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack cheese can introduce new flavors and spice levels. The choice of cheese allows for personalization based on taste preferences or dietary needs.

Sweet Elements: Dried Fruit

Adding dried cranberries or raisins introduces natural sweetness to the salad, which contrasts with the savory and tangy components. These fruits also bring chewy texture, making each bite interesting and complex. Beyond flavor, dried fruits provide fiber and antioxidants, enhancing the salad’s nutritional value. They can be swapped with other dried fruits such as cherries or apricots for seasonal variety and added color.

Crunch Factor: Nuts and Seeds

Sunflower seeds, slivered almonds, or other nuts add another layer of crunch and texture. They provide healthy fats, protein, and micronutrients like magnesium and vitamin E, which support overall health. Toasting the nuts lightly before adding them to the salad enhances their flavor and gives a slightly nutty aroma. For those with nut allergies, seeds alone can be used to maintain texture without compromising safety.

Creamy Dressing: Balancing Flavors

The mayonnaise-based dressing is key to tying all the ingredients together. Its tangy-sweet flavor complements the bitterness of broccoli, the saltiness of bacon, and the sweetness of dried fruit. Using apple cider vinegar adds a slight acidity that brightens the salad, while sugar softens any harsh notes. Adjusting the dressing components allows for customizing sweetness or tanginess, making it adaptable to different palates. Lighter alternatives, such as Greek yogurt or avocado-based dressings, can also reduce fat and calories without sacrificing creaminess.

Serving Suggestions

Loaded Broccoli Salad is highly versatile in serving options. It works as a side dish for grilled meats, sandwiches, or as part of a potluck spread. It can also be served on a bed of lettuce for a lighter meal or with whole-grain crackers for added crunch. For family dinners, serving it alongside roasted chicken or pork chops provides a balance of protein, vegetables, and flavor. Its chilled nature makes it especially refreshing during warmer months or outdoor gatherings.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

One of the advantages of this salad is that it improves in flavor after resting. Preparing it a few hours or even a day in advance allows the dressing to meld with the broccoli and other ingredients. Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Nuts and bacon can be added just before serving if you prefer them to remain extra crisp. Reheating is unnecessary, as the salad is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature.

Healthier Variations

For a lighter or more diet-conscious version, there are several adjustments you can make. Substituting full-fat mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or a low-fat mayo reduces calories and adds protein. Omitting bacon or using turkey bacon lowers saturated fat content. Adding more vegetables, like bell peppers or shredded carrots, increases fiber and nutrient density. These tweaks allow you to maintain the salad’s signature crunch and creaminess while making it more suitable for specific dietary goals.

Tips for Optimal Texture

Achieving the ideal texture is crucial for Loaded Broccoli Salad. The broccoli should remain crisp and vibrant, so avoid overcooking or steaming before combining it with the other ingredients. Cutting the florets uniformly ensures even bites, while mixing the salad gently prevents crushing the delicate components. Similarly, distributing bacon, cheese, and dried fruit evenly ensures that every mouthful offers a balanced combination of flavors and textures.

Conclusion

Loaded Broccoli Salad is a perfect combination of crunch, creaminess, sweetness, and savory flavors, making it a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish. From its nutrient-packed broccoli base to the indulgent touches of bacon, cheese, and dried fruit, it strikes a balance between health and taste. Its adaptability in serving, make-ahead potential, and easy customizations make it suitable for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or festive gatherings.