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Broccoli Bacon Almond Crunch Salad - Fresh, Savory, and Satisfying

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 6 cups broccoli florets, finely chopped (about 2 medium heads)
  • 6 slices thick-cut bacon, cooked until crisp and crumbled
  • 1/2 cup sliced or slivered almonds, lightly toasted
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries or raisins
  • 1/3 cup red onion, finely minced
  • 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar or crumbled feta (optional)
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (or white wine vinegar)
  • 1–2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional, but bright and delicious)

Method
 

  1. Cook the bacon. Place bacon strips in a cold skillet and cook over medium heat until crisp, 8–10 minutes. Drain on paper towels and crumble once cooled. Save a teaspoon of the rendered fat for toasting almonds if you like extra flavor.
  2. Toast the almonds. In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the almonds for 2–3 minutes until lightly golden and fragrant. Stir often so they don’t burn. Set aside to cool.
  3. Prep the broccoli. Chop broccoli florets into small, bite-size pieces. Include some peeled stems for extra crunch. The smaller you chop, the better the texture and dressing coverage.
  4. Make the dressing. In a bowl, whisk together mayo, Greek yogurt, vinegar, honey, Dijon, salt, pepper, and lemon zest. Taste and adjust sweetness or acidity. It should be tangy with a gentle sweetness.
  5. Combine the salad. In a large bowl, add chopped broccoli, red onion, dried cranberries, toasted almonds, and crumbled bacon. If using cheese, add it now.
  6. Toss with dressing. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is well coated. The dressing will seem a bit thick at first, but it loosens as it sits.
  7. Chill for best flavor. Cover and chill for at least 30 minutes, or up to 24 hours. The rest time softens the broccoli slightly and brings the flavors together.
  8. Finish and serve. Give it a final toss and taste for seasoning. Add a pinch more salt, a squeeze of lemon, or an extra sprinkle of almonds for crunch right before serving.