Freshen your side dish repertoire with this quick and easy recipe that brings vibrant color, layered flavors, and low-carb nutrition to the table—no cooking required!
Broccoli has always been my favorite vegetable. Even as a child, I’d happily devour a big plate of steamed broccoli doused with nothing more than salt and pepper. So I was particularly happy to learn that this green cruciferous veggie was included in the low-carb lifestyle my partner and I recently embraced.
I’m always looking for new ways to enjoy my favorite veggie. This keto broccoli salad recipe is so quick and easy to prepare—and tastes so fresh and savory—that it’s become a go-to for both potlucks and weeknight dinners. It’s always a hit on a buffet table. I can see faces light up when I bring it to family picnics and parties. Even my picky nieces and nephews seem to enjoy it!
The creamy dressing has a lovely sweet-tart tang, thanks to the combo of red wine vinegar and sugar substitute. And the cheddar cheese brings in just enough richness to stand up to the smoky notes of the bacon. But the star of the dish is broccoli, with its signature earthiness and crunch. I like to add red onions for an extra bit of savoriness and sweet crunchiness—but I put them on the side for group meals because some people are sensitive to them. Like most salads, this one brings welcome versatility to the table!
Make this salad your way
I like the crunch of raw broccoli in this salad, but if you prefer a softer texture, lightly blanch or steam it first. Just be sure to let it cool completely before mixing it with the other ingredients.
You could also swap the broccoli for cauliflower florets or use a combination of both for varied flavors and colors. Or add chopped bell peppers for a colorful and flavorful glow-up.
Some of my favorite mix-ins are diced red onion and sunflower seeds. Other great options include pumpkin seeds, pepitas, and chopped low-carb nuts, such as almonds, pecans, macadamias, or walnuts.
If you don’t like store-bought bacon bits, simply fry up a few strips, let them cool, then crumble them into the mix. Or switch up the protein by subbing in shredded cooked chicken, fried tofu, or chunks of roasted turkey.
For the dressing, plain Greek yogurt makes an excellent 1:1 substitute for the mayonnaise, bringing in a delightful tang. And while it’s fine to serve this salad at room temp, I think it tastes much better and feels more refreshing after it’s chilled for an hour or more in the fridge. Plus, the raw broccoli will soften as it marinates in the dressing, eliminating any need to blanch it.
How do I store leftovers?
Refrigerate this salad within 2 hours of serving it. Leftovers will keep for up to 5 days in an airtight container in the fridge. I do not recommend freezing this dish, as the mayonnaise-based dressing and fresh ingredients can become watery, mushy, and separated when thawed, significantly affecting the taste and texture.
Similar recipes to try
Hungry for more low-carb dishes that showcase broccoli? Check out this Low-Carb Broccoli Cheese Casserole, this Cheesy Ranch Broccoli And Cauliflower Casserole, and this Keto Ham Casserole With Swiss Cheese And Broccoli for veggie-forward yet hearty dishes. Looking for lighter options? Try this Keto Sautéed Broccoli Recipe and this Healthy Broccoli Slaw. And for a restaurant-quality meal at home, consider this Takeout-Style Low-Carb Beef And Broccoli.
Keto Broccoli Salad
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh broccoli cut into bite-sized florets
- 1/3 cup cheddar cheese cut into 1/2-inch chunks, about 2 1/2 ounces
- 3 tablespoons bacon bits about 1 ounce
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons granular sweetener
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 to 2 tablespoons water
Instructions
- Place the broccoli florets in a large bowl. Add the cheese and bacon bits.
- In a small bowl or measuring cup, whisk together the mayonnaise, granulated sweetener, vinegar, and water.
- Pour the sauce over the broccoli mixture.
- Gently stir or toss to coat everything evenly.
- Serve immediately or chill for an hour or more to allow the flavors to meld.
Good. Love you
Thanks Tham!
This is especially good if you add your favorite shredded cheese.
Good idea! Thanks for the tip