Broccoli, Bacon and Cheddar Salad

Broccoli, Bacon and Cheddar Salad

This hearty salad is the perfect blend of crunchy broccoli, crispy bacon, and sharp cheddar cheese, all tossed in a rich, tangy dressing. Quick and easy to prepare, it’s a crowd-pleasing side dish that’s ideal for potlucks, barbecues, or even weeknight dinners.

8
6 pieces Natural Grocers® Brand Hickory-Smoked Uncured Bacon
3⁄4 cup avocado oil-based mayonnaise
3 tablespoons organic red wine vinegar
1 tablespoon Natural Grocers Brand Bulk Organic Coconut Sugar
1 teaspoon Natural Grocers Brand Bulk Real Salt
1 teaspoon Natural Grocers Brand Bulk Organic Ground Black Pepper
1 large bunch (1 ½ - 1 ¾ pounds) organic broccoli
1 cup shredded Natural Grocers Brand Organic Sharp Cheddar Cheese
1⁄2 small organic red onion, finely diced
1 small organic red pepper, seeded and diced
  1. Place the bacon strips in a large skillet over medium heat, ensuring they are not overlapping for even cooking, and cook, turning as needed, until lightly browned and crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate and let cool completely. When cool, chop into bite-sized pieces.
  2. Make the dressing: Add the mayo, vinegar, coconut sugar, salt, and pepper to a large salad bowl and whisk until well combined. Set aside.
  3. Blanch the broccoli: Place a pot of water over high heat and bring to a boil. Remove any leaves from the broccoli stems and trim the tough ends off. Cut the head into bite-sized florets and set aside; peel the stems and chop into bite-sized pieces. Once the water is boiling, add the broccoli stems to the pot. Set a timer for 30 seconds. When the timer goes off, add the broccoli florets and set the timer for 1 minute. After 1 minute, drain the broccoli and rinse under cold water. Allow the broccoli to cool completely. Once cool, transfer to the salad bowl.
  4. Add the onion and the red pepper to the salad bowl and gently toss until all the ingredients are well coated in the dressing.
  5. Add the bacon and shredded cheese to the salad bowl and toss the ingredients again until well combined.
  6. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve. You may need to toss the salad a couple times to evenly redistribute the dressing just before serving.

per one serving

CaloriesCarbsProteinFatFiber
266 kcal7 g8 g24 g2 g

Recommended Beverage: Organic Cider

Recommended Brand: Samuel Smith