This Roasted Broccoli Bacon Crunch Salad is a fantastic mix of flavors and textures! The roasted broccoli gives a nice bite, and crispy bacon adds a savory crunch. Yum!
Who knew salad could be this fun? I love munching on this while pretending it’s super healthy. Just set it out, and watch it disappear like magic! 🥦🥓
Making this salad is a breeze! Just roast the broccoli, cook the bacon, and toss it all with some extra goodies. I always find it brightens up any meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets are key for this salad’s crunch. If you can’t find fresh, frozen broccoli florets work in a pinch, just make sure to thaw and pat dry.
Bacon: While I love the flavor of bacon, feel free to use turkey bacon or even plant-based bacon as a healthier option. The cooking time might vary a bit, but it still adds that savory kick!
Red Onion: For a milder flavor, you could swap with green onions or shallots. This can make the dish more subtle if you’re not a fan of the strong onion taste.
Mayonnaise: If you’re watching your calories, Greek yogurt or light mayo can be a great substitute. It keeps the creaminess but adds some extra protein!
Apple Cider Vinegar: If you don’t have this on hand, white wine vinegar or lemon juice work nicely for a similar tang. They can brighten up the flavors just as well!
How Do I Get My Broccoli Perfectly Roasted?
Roasting broccoli really brings out its flavor and makes it crispy! Here’s how to do it successfully:
- Start with preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). A hot oven gives better caramelization.
- Spread the broccoli in a single layer on the baking sheet. This helps it roast evenly.
- Don’t skip the olive oil! It’s essential for achieving that lovely golden-brown color.
- Keep an eye on the time—15-20 minutes should do it. If you notice a nice char, that’s when it’s ready!
Trust me, that roasted flavor is essential for the overall taste of the salad!
How to Make Roasted Broccoli Bacon Crunch Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 6 slices bacon
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, for slight sweetness)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional for Extra Crunch:
- Toasted sunflower seeds
- Sliced almonds
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious salad takes about 10 minutes in preparation and around 20 minutes to roast the broccoli, bringing the total time to about 30 minutes. If you choose to chill it in the fridge for extra flavor melding, add another 20-30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This is the perfect temperature to get your broccoli crispy and delicious. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy clean-up!
2. Roast the Broccoli:
Spread those lovely broccoli florets out on the baking sheet. Drizzle a small amount of olive oil over them and sprinkle on some salt and black pepper. Give them a gentle toss to coat everything. Roast in the oven for about 15-20 minutes, until the tips are nicely charred and the broccoli is tender-crisp.
3. Cook the Bacon:
While the broccoli is roasting, it’s time for the bacon! In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon strips until they are nice and crispy. Once cooked, take them out and place them on a paper towel to drain excess fat, then crumble them into small pieces.
4. Make the Dressing:
In a large bowl, combine the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and sugar (if you’d like the hint of sweetness). Add a pinch of salt and black pepper for flavor. Whisk these ingredients together until smooth and well combined.
5. Toss the Salad:
Once the broccoli is out of the oven and slightly cooled, add it to the bowl with the dressing along with the crumbled bacon and the thinly sliced red onions. Gently toss everything together until the broccoli and bacon are evenly coated in that creamy dressing.
6. Add Extra Crunch:
If you want to take your salad to the next level, mix in some toasted sunflower seeds or sliced almonds for an extra crunch. They add great texture and flavor!
7. Serve or Chill:
This salad can be enjoyed right away, or you can chill it in the fridge for 20-30 minutes to let the flavors meld together even more. Both ways are tasty!
Enjoy your flavorful Roasted Broccoli Bacon Crunch Salad!
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli for This Salad?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli florets! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry to remove excess moisture. This ensures they’ll roast well and not become soggy in the salad.
What Can I Substitute for Bacon?
If you’re looking for a healthier option or to make this dish meat-free, turkey bacon or plant-based bacon are great alternatives. Just adjust the cooking time as needed, and you’ll still have that savory flavor!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To enjoy, simply toss it lightly and add a splash of lemon juice or extra dressing to refresh the flavors.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the roasted broccoli and bacon in advance and store them separately in the fridge. Combine everything with the dressing just before serving to keep the salad fresh and crunchy.
