Dessert

Loaded Broccoli Salad Recipe

ByVictor Layne December 3, 2025December 3, 2025

Introduction

Loaded Broccoli Salad is a vibrant and crunchy dish packed with fresh broccoli, cauliflower, bacon, cheese, and a creamy, tangy dressing. It’s perfect as a side for BBQs, potlucks, or a refreshing snack any time of year.

A white bowl filled with a fresh salad made of several layers: the base layer shows bright green broccoli florets and white cauliflower pieces, mixed with thin slices of purple onion. On top, small crispy pieces of brown bacon are scattered evenly over the vegetables. There are also thin shreds of orange cheddar cheese spread all around, and the entire salad is lightly coated with a creamy white dressing, giving a shiny texture. The background is a white marbled surface, and the photo is taken up close to show the salad’s colors and textures clearly. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

3/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup clover honey
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1 tablespoon granulated sugar (optional)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
4 cups broccoli florets, chopped
4 cups cauliflower florets, chopped
12 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
8 ounces Colby Jack cheese, cut into small cubes
1 red onion, peeled and chopped

Instructions

Step 1: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, honey, red wine vinegar, sugar (if using), salt, and black pepper until smooth. Cover and refrigerate while preparing the salad.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, cauliflower, half of the crumbled bacon, Colby Jack cheese, and diced red onion.
Step 3: Pour the prepared dressing over the salad and toss well to coat all the ingredients evenly.
Step 4: Sprinkle the remaining bacon on top for a crispy finish. Serve immediately, or cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Tips & Variations

Make it dairy-free by swapping Greek yogurt and mayo for coconut yogurt or avocado mayo.
Lower the sugar by using a sugar-free sweetener instead of honey and omitting the optional sugar.
Add more crunch with toasted almonds, sunflower seeds, or pecans.
Try different cheeses like cheddar, feta, or blue cheese for new flavor variations.
Add protein such as grilled chicken or hard-boiled eggs to make it a complete meal.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad remains fresh and flavorful but toss it quickly before serving to redistribute the dressing. For best texture, store the dressing separately and combine just before serving to keep the vegetables crisp.

How to Serve

A white bowl filled with a fresh salad showing a mix of three main layers: bright green broccoli florets, white cauliflower pieces, and crunchy red onion slices on top. The salad is covered with a creamy white dressing, sprinkled with small shreds of orange cheddar cheese, and scattered crispy brown bacon bits. The texture is fresh and crunchy, with the colors vibrant and mixed evenly across the bowl. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare this salad in advance?

Yes, but it’s best to store the dressing separately and mix it with the salad just before serving to prevent the vegetables from becoming soggy.

Is there a substitute for bacon in this recipe?

You can use turkey bacon, cooked pancetta, or even crispy fried tofu for a vegetarian alternative.