Dinner

Loaded Broccoli Salad Recipe

ByVictor Layne December 3, 2025December 3, 2025

Introduction

Loaded Broccoli Salad is a vibrant and satisfying side dish bursting with fresh broccoli, cauliflower, crunchy bacon, and creamy cheese. Tossed in a tangy, slightly sweet yogurt-based dressing, it’s perfect for potlucks, picnics, or a refreshing addition to any meal.

A white bowl filled with a colorful salad is shown on a white marbled surface. The salad has three main layers: a base layer of fresh broccoli and cauliflower florets in bright green and creamy white, a middle layer of shredded orange cheddar cheese and thin slices of purple-red onion, and a top layer of small crispy bacon pieces. The salad is coated with a creamy white dressing sprinkled lightly with black pepper, giving it a fresh and tasty look. 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.
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 gently until all ingredients are evenly coated.
Step 4: Sprinkle the remaining bacon on top for garnish. Serve immediately or cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Tips & Variations

Make it dairy-free by substituting Greek yogurt and mayonnaise with coconut yogurt or avocado mayo.
Reduce sugar by using a sugar-free sweetener in place of honey and omit the optional sugar.
Add extra crunch with toasted almonds, sunflower seeds, or pecans.
Swap Colby Jack for cheddar, feta, or blue cheese for a different flavor profile.
Add protein by mixing in grilled chicken or chopped hard-boiled eggs to make it a full meal.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best texture, stir gently before serving and avoid adding dressing too far in advance to keep the salad crisp. Leftovers can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature.

How to Serve

A white bowl filled with a fresh vegetable salad stands on a white marbled surface. The salad has three main layers: the bottom layer is a mix of bright green broccoli florets and pale white cauliflower pieces, all coated lightly with a creamy white dressing that has black pepper specks on it. The middle layer has thin strips of vibrant purple red onion scattered throughout. The top layer is sprinkled with small, crispy pieces of reddish-brown bacon and shredded orange cheddar cheese, adding a mix of color and texture. Light is shining softly from the side, highlighting the fresh and crisp look of the vegetables and the creamy dressing. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare the salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dressing and chop the vegetables a day ahead. Assemble the salad and add the dressing just before serving to keep everything fresh and crunchy.