Easy Keto Broccoli Salad Recipe [Low Carbs]

The Keto Broccoli Salad is a harmonious blend of textures and flavors. It combines fresh broccoli florets, crispy bacon bits, sharp cheddar cheese, and the subtle bite of red onion, all bound together in a creamy dressing spiked with tangy apple cider vinegar and a hint of sweetness. Optional sunflower seeds add a delightful crunch, making each bite a symphony of taste sensations.

Broccoli, the star of this dish, is a nutritional powerhouse. It’s packed with antioxidants, vitamins C and K, folate, and fiber, promoting overall health and well-being. The addition of bacon provides protein and healthy fats, while cheddar cheese adds calcium and a satisfying richness. The dressing, made with mayo and sour cream, offers a creamy texture with minimal carbs. These ingredients work in harmony to create a dish that’s not just delicious but also supports your keto lifestyle.

Keto Broccoli Salad Recipe

Ingredients

1. Fresh Broccoli Florets:

• 4 cups of fresh broccoli florets (approximately 2 medium heads)
• Ensure the broccoli is washed and cut into bite-sized pieces.

2. Cooked Bacon Bits:

• 8 slices of bacon, cooked until crispy and crumbled into small pieces.
• You can use store-bought bacon bits as an alternative, but cooking fresh bacon adds more flavor.

3. Shredded Cheddar Cheese:

• 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
• Opt for sharp or extra sharp cheddar for a more pronounced flavor.

4. Chopped Red Onion:

• 1/2 cup of finely chopped red onion.
• Red onion adds a nice color and a mild, sweet flavor to the salad.

5. Sunflower Seeds (Optional):

• 1/4 cup of sunflower seeds.
• These add a delightful crunch and an extra layer of texture.

6. Mayonnaise:

• 1 cup of mayonnaise.
• Choose a high-quality, full-fat mayonnaise to keep the salad keto-friendly.

7. Sour Cream:

• 1/2 cup of sour cream.
• This adds a tangy creaminess to the dressing.

8. Apple Cider Vinegar:

• 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar.
• Provides a tangy kick to balance the richness of the dressing.

9. Stevia or Other Keto-Friendly Sweeteners:

• 1-2 tablespoons of stevia or your preferred keto-friendly sweetener.
• Adjust the sweetness to your taste preference.

10. Salt and Pepper to Taste:

• Start with 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper.
• Adjust to taste after mixing the dressing with the salad.

These ingredients come together to create a delicious, keto-friendly broccoli salad that’s perfect for any meal.

Instructions

1. Preparation:

1. Wash and Cut Broccoli Florets:
   • Rinse 2 medium heads of broccoli under cold water to remove any dirt or debris.
   • Pat the broccoli dry with paper towels.
   • Using a sharp knife, cut the broccoli into bite-sized florets, discarding the thick stems. You can also peel and slice the stems thinly if you prefer to include them in the salad.
2. Cook Bacon Until Crispy:
   • Place 8 slices of bacon in a cold skillet.
   • Turn the heat to medium and cook the bacon, turning occasionally, until it reaches your desired level of crispiness (about 10-12 minutes).
   • Transfer the cooked bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease.
   • Once cooled, crumble the bacon into small pieces.
3. Finely Chop Red Onion:
   • Peel a red onion and cut off the ends.
   • Slice the onion in half and finely chop 1/2 cup of red onion.

2. Mixing the Salad:

1. Combine Ingredients:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the prepared broccoli florets, crumbled bacon, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup of chopped red onion, and 1/4 cup of sunflower seeds (if using).
2. Make the Dressing:
   • In a separate bowl, combine 1 cup of mayonnaise, 1/2 cup of sour cream, 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar, and 1-2 tablespoons of stevia or your preferred keto-friendly sweetener.
   • Season the dressing with 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper.
   • Whisk the ingredients together until smooth and well blended.

3. Tossing the Salad:

1. Add Dressing to Salad:
   • Pour the prepared dressing over the broccoli mixture in the large bowl.
2. Toss the Salad:
   • Use tongs or a large spoon to toss the salad until all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
   • Ensure that the broccoli florets and other ingredients are well mixed and thoroughly coated.

4. Chilling and Serving:

1. Chill the Salad:
   • Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the salad to an airtight container.
   • Place the salad in the refrigerator and chill for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
2. Serve:
   • Serve the salad chilled as a side dish or a light meal.
   • Optionally, garnish with extra shredded cheddar cheese or crumbled bacon before serving for added flavor and presentation.
3. Enjoy:
   • Enjoy your delicious Keto Broccoli Salad, perfect for a healthy and satisfying low-carb meal.

These step-by-step instructions guide you through preparing a delicious and keto-friendly Broccoli Salad. Start by washing and cutting fresh broccoli into bite-sized pieces, cooking bacon until crispy, and finely chopping red onion. Combine these ingredients with shredded cheddar cheese and optional sunflower seeds in a large bowl. Create a creamy dressing using mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, a keto-friendly sweetener, and seasonings. Toss the salad ingredients with the dressing until evenly coated. Chill the salad for at least 30 minutes to enhance the flavors, then serve chilled as a side dish or light meal, optionally garnished with extra cheese or bacon. Enjoy this nutritious and flavorful dish!

Keto Broccoli Salad is a flavorful and nutrient-dense dish that perfectly aligns with the principles of the ketogenic diet. This vibrant salad combines fresh, crisp broccoli with savory bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and the zesty crunch of red onion, all enveloped in a creamy, tangy dressing. It’s an excellent way to enjoy a variety of textures and tastes while staying within your low-carb dietary goals.

The Keto Broccoli Salad is a delightful combination of fresh ingredients. The star of the dish, broccoli, provides a satisfying crunch and a host of health benefits. Crispy bacon adds a savory and smoky element, while shredded cheddar cheese brings a rich, creamy flavor. Red onion adds a hint of sharpness, and optional sunflower seeds contribute a nutty crunch. All these ingredients are brought together with a luscious dressing made from mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, and a touch of stevia for balanced sweetness.

Keto Broccoli Salad Nutrition Info

Here’s an estimated nutrition table for the Keto Broccoli Salad, based on the ingredients provided. These values are approximations and can vary depending on the specific brands and exact quantities used.

Estimated Nutrition Table for Keto Broccoli Salad (per serving)

Nutrient	Amount per Serving (1/6 of total recipe)
Calories	480
Total Fat	42g
Saturated Fat	13g
Cholesterol	65mg
Sodium	660mg
Total Carbohydrates	8g
Dietary Fiber	3g
Sugars	2g
Protein	16g
Vitamin A	15% DV
Vitamin C	100% DV
Calcium	20% DV
Iron	6% DV

Notes on the Nutrition Table:

• Serving Size: The table is based on dividing the entire salad into 6 servings.
• Total Carbohydrates: Includes fiber and sugars; net carbs would be lower due to the fiber content.
• Total Fat and Saturated Fat: Mainly from bacon, cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, and sour cream.
• Protein: From bacon, cheese, and broccoli.
• Vitamins and Minerals: Broccoli is a significant source of vitamins C and K, and the cheese provides calcium.

These values give a good approximation of the nutritional profile of the Keto Broccoli Salad, making it easier to fit this dish into your daily keto meal plan.

Here’s a consolidated nutrition table for the Keto Broccoli Salad, including all the ingredients and their respective nutritional values per specified amount.

Ingredient	Amount	Calories	Total Fat	Saturated Fat	Cholesterol	Sodium	Total Carbs	Dietary Fiber	Sugars	Protein	Vitamin A	Vitamin C	Calcium	Iron
Broccoli florets	4 cups (280g)	120	1g	0g	0mg	40mg	24g	10g	4g	8g	24% DV	270% DV	16% DV	12% DV
Bacon (cooked and crumbled)	8 slices (64g)	400	35g	12g	60mg	1230mg	2g	0g	0g	14g	0% DV	0% DV	0% DV	2% DV
Shredded cheddar cheese	1 cup (112g)	450	36g	23g	120mg	700mg	2g	0g	0g	28g	20% DV	0% DV	70% DV	4% DV
Red onion (chopped)	1/2 cup (80g)	30	0g	0g	0mg	2mg	7g	1g	3g	1g	0% DV	8% DV	2% DV	2% DV
Sunflower seeds (optional)	1/4 cup (35g)	200	18g	1.5g	0mg	3mg	7g	3g	1g	6g	2% DV	2% DV	4% DV	8% DV
Mayonnaise	1 cup (240g)	1440	160g	24g	80mg	1600mg	0g	0g	0g	2g	4% DV	0% DV	2% DV	0% DV
Sour cream	1/2 cup (120g)	240	24g	14g	60mg	40mg	8g	0g	4g	3g	10% DV	0% DV	12% DV	0% DV
Apple cider vinegar	2 tbsp (30ml)	5	0g	0g	0mg	0mg	1g	0g	0g	0g	0% DV	0% DV	0% DV	0% DV
Stevia or sweetener	1-2 tbsp (4-8g)	0	0g	0g	0mg	0mg	0g	0g	0g	0g	0% DV	0% DV	0% DV	0% DV
Salt and pepper to taste	~1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp pepper	Negligible	0g	0g	0mg	~1mg	0g	0g	0g	0g	0% DV	0% DV	0% DV	0% DV

These values are approximate and may vary depending on the specific brand and preparation method. Always refer to the nutrition labels on your ingredients for the most accurate information.

Tips for Best Results 🍽

Here are some tips for achieving the best results when making Keto Broccoli Salad:

1. Choose Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh broccoli, high-quality bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and ripe red onions for the best flavor and texture.
2. Cook Bacon Until Crispy: Cooking the bacon until crispy adds a delicious crunch and enhances its flavor. Make sure to drain excess grease before adding it to the salad.
3. Chill the Salad: Allow the salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld together and enhances the overall taste.
4. Toss Salad Gently: Use tongs or a large spoon to gently toss the salad after adding the dressing. This ensures that all ingredients are evenly coated without crushing the broccoli florets.
5. Adjust Seasonings: Taste the salad after mixing to adjust the seasoning levels. Add more salt, pepper, or sweetener if needed to suit your taste preferences.
6. Garnish Creatively: Garnish the salad with additional shredded cheddar cheese or crumbled bacon just before serving for added flavor and visual appeal.
7. Store Properly: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. However, the salad is best enjoyed fresh.
8. Customize to Taste: Feel free to customize the salad by adding other keto-friendly ingredients such as nuts, seeds, or fresh herbs to suit your preferences.

By following these tips, you can ensure that your Keto Broccoli Salad turns out flavorful, satisfying, and perfect for your low-carb lifestyle. Enjoy!

Delicious Topping Ideas

Here are some delicious topping ideas to enhance your Keto Broccoli Salad:

1. Avocado Slices:

Creamy avocado adds a rich texture and healthy fats to the salad.

2. Toasted Almonds or Pecans:

Add a crunchy and nutty flavor to complement the broccoli and bacon.

3. Crumbled Feta or Blue Cheese:

For a tangy and savory kick, sprinkle crumbled feta or blue cheese over the salad.

4. Roasted Red Bell Peppers:

Roasted red bell peppers add sweetness and color to the salad.

5. Crispy Fried Shallots:

Thinly sliced shallots fried until crispy add a delightful crunch and flavor.

6. Grilled Chicken or Shrimp:

For a complete meal, top the salad with grilled chicken strips or shrimp.

7. Chopped Fresh Herbs:

Add freshness and aromatic flavors by sprinkling chopped herbs like parsley, cilantro, or dill.

8. Pickled Jalapenos:

For a spicy kick, add some pickled jalapeno slices or diced fresh jalapenos.

9. Hard-Boiled Eggs:

Sliced or chopped hard-boiled eggs add protein and a creamy texture to the salad.

10. Crispy Pork Rinds:

Crushed pork rinds can serve as a crunchy and flavorful low-carb alternative to croutons.

Feel free to mix and match these topping ideas or add your own favorites to create a customized and delicious Keto Broccoli Salad that suits your taste preferences. Enjoy experimenting!

FAQ

How many carbs are in a Keto broccoli salad?

The number of carbs in a keto broccoli salad can vary based on the specific ingredients and their quantities used in the recipe. However, I can provide you with a general idea based on a common keto broccoli salad recipe.

A typical keto broccoli salad might include:

• Broccoli florets
• Bacon
• Cheddar cheese
• Red onion
• Sunflower seeds or almonds
• A dressing made from mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and a low-carb sweetener

Here is an approximate nutritional breakdown for a serving size (about 1 cup):

• Broccoli: 4 grams of carbs (2 grams of fiber, so 2 grams net carbs)
• Bacon: 0 grams of carbs
• Cheddar cheese: 1 gram of carbs
• Red onion: 2 grams of carbs
• Sunflower seeds/almonds: 2 grams of carbs
• Dressing (mayonnaise, vinegar, sweetener): 1 gram of carbs

Total carbs for one serving (1 cup):

• Total: 10 grams
• Net carbs (after subtracting fiber): 7 grams

This is a rough estimate, and the actual carb count may vary based on the exact ingredients and quantities you use. Always check the nutritional information on the specific products you are using to get the most accurate count.

What is Keto broccoli salad?

Keto broccoli salad is a low-carb, high-fat version of the traditional broccoli salad, specifically tailored for those following a ketogenic diet. This diet emphasizes low carbohydrate intake to induce ketosis, a metabolic state where the body burns fat for fuel instead of carbohydrates.

Key Ingredients

1. Broccoli Florets: The base of the salad, providing a crunchy texture and essential nutrients like fiber, vitamins C and K, and antioxidants.
2. Bacon: Adds a savory and crispy element, contributing healthy fats and protein.
3. Cheddar Cheese: Offers a rich, tangy flavor while providing fats and protein.
4. Red Onion: Adds a sharp, slightly sweet taste and a bit of crunch.
5. Nuts or Seeds: Such as sunflower seeds or almonds, for added texture, healthy fats, and a bit of protein.
6. Dressing: Typically made from mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and a low-carb sweetener like stevia, erythritol, or monk fruit. This combination ensures a creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet flavor.

Nutritional Benefits

• Low in Carbs: The salad is designed to be low in carbohydrates, making it suitable for the keto diet.
• High in Healthy Fats: Ingredients like bacon, cheese, and mayonnaise provide healthy fats, essential for maintaining ketosis.
• Nutrient-Rich: Broccoli and other added vegetables offer vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
• Protein: Bacon, cheese, and nuts/seeds contribute to the protein content, which is important for muscle maintenance and overall health.

Variations

• Vegetables: You can add other low-carb vegetables like cauliflower, bell peppers, or cucumbers.
• Protein Alternatives: Instead of bacon, you can use diced chicken, turkey bacon, or smoked salmon.
• Cheese Substitutes: Other cheeses like feta, mozzarella, or blue cheese can be used.
• Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free cheese and mayonnaise to make the salad suitable for those with dairy intolerances or preferences.

Preparation and Storage

• Making Ahead: Keto broccoli salad can be made a few hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld together.
• Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If planning to store longer, keep the dressing separate and mix it in before serving.
• Meal Prep: Perfect for meal prep, you can prepare a large batch and divide it into individual portions for quick and easy meals throughout the week.

Conclusion

Keto broccoli salad is a delicious, nutritious, and versatile dish that fits perfectly into a ketogenic lifestyle. Its combination of crunchy vegetables, savory bacon, tangy cheese, and a creamy, low-carb dressing makes it a satisfying and healthy option for anyone looking to maintain ketosis while enjoying a flavorful meal.

What dressing is used in Keto broccoli salad?

The dressing used in a Keto broccoli salad is a key component that ties all the ingredients together with a creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet flavor. Here’s a typical dressing recipe that fits within the ketogenic diet guidelines:

Ingredients

1. Mayonnaise: The base of the dressing, providing a rich and creamy texture. It’s low in carbs and high in fats, which is ideal for the keto diet.
2. Apple Cider Vinegar: Adds a tangy flavor to the dressing. It’s a common low-carb vinegar choice, but you can also use other types of vinegar like white wine vinegar or lemon juice if preferred.
3. Low-Carb Sweetener: To balance the tanginess, a small amount of a keto-friendly sweetener like stevia, erythritol, or monk fruit is used. This gives the dressing a subtle sweetness without adding carbs.
4. Dijon Mustard (optional): For an extra layer of flavor and a bit of sharpness, Dijon mustard can be added. This is optional but recommended for its depth of flavor.

Preparation

1. Combine Ingredients: In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and your choice of low-carb sweetener. If using Dijon mustard, add it to the mixture.
2. Adjust to Taste: Taste the dressing and adjust the sweetness or acidity according to your preference. You can add more sweetener or vinegar as needed.
3. Consistency: If you prefer a thinner dressing, you can add a small amount of water or additional vinegar to reach the desired consistency.

Example Recipe

Here’s a simple recipe for the dressing:

• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1-2 teaspoons erythritol (or other low-carb sweetener)
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and erythritol.
2. If using, add the Dijon mustard and stir well.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Mix until smooth and well combined.
5. Taste and adjust the seasoning as necessary.

Tips

• Homemade Mayonnaise: For the freshest flavor and to control the ingredients, consider making your own mayonnaise.
• Storage: Store any extra dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
• Mixing: Ensure the dressing is thoroughly mixed before adding it to the salad to distribute the flavors evenly.

This dressing perfectly complements the ingredients in the Keto broccoli salad, adding a delicious and satisfying element to the dish while keeping it low in carbs and high in healthy fats.

Can I add other vegetables to my Keto broccoli salad?

Yes, you can add other low-carb vegetables to your Keto broccoli salad. Good options include cauliflower, bell peppers, and cucumbers. Be sure to check the carb content of any additional vegetables to keep the salad keto-friendly.

Is Keto broccoli salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes, Keto broccoli salad is excellent for meal prep. It’s a dish that can be made in advance, stored well, and enjoyed over several days. Here are some tips and benefits for using Keto broccoli salad in your meal prep routine:

Benefits of Meal Prepping Keto Broccoli Salad

1. Convenience: Preparing a large batch ahead of time saves you time during the week, providing a ready-to-eat meal or side dish.
2. Consistency: Keeps you on track with your keto diet by having a nutritious, low-carb option readily available.
3. Flavor Enhancement: The flavors often improve after a day as the ingredients have time to meld together.
4. Versatility: Can be eaten alone, as a side dish, or as a topping for other keto-friendly meals.

Tips for Meal Prepping Keto Broccoli Salad

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh broccoli and other vegetables will maintain their texture and flavor better over several days.
2. Separate Components if Necessary: If you prefer certain ingredients to stay extra crisp, like bacon or nuts, keep them separate and add them just before serving.
3. Storage: Store the salad in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Glass containers with tight-fitting lids are ideal for maintaining freshness.
4. Portion Control: Divide the salad into individual portions to make it easy to grab and go. This also helps with managing serving sizes and carb intake.

Example Meal Prep Plan

Ingredients

• 4 cups broccoli florets
• 1 cup cauliflower florets
• 1/2 cup diced bell peppers (any color)
• 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
• 1/4 cup chopped celery
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• 1 ripe avocado, diced (add just before eating to prevent browning)
• 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled (store separately)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup sunflower seeds (store separately)

Dressing

• 2 cups mayonnaise
• 4 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 2-3 teaspoons erythritol (or other low-carb sweetener)
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Vegetables: Chop the broccoli, cauliflower, bell peppers, cucumber, celery, and green onions. Combine them in a large mixing bowl.
2. Cook the Bacon: Cook and crumble the bacon. Store in a separate container to keep it crisp.
3. Make the Dressing: In a bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, erythritol, and Dijon mustard (if using). Season with salt and pepper.
4. Combine and Toss: Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss until everything is well coated.
5. Storage: Divide the salad into meal prep containers. If storing bacon and sunflower seeds separately, add them just before eating to maintain their texture.
6. Refrigerate: Store the containers in the refrigerator. The salad will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.

Serving Suggestions

• As a Main Dish: Enjoy the salad on its own for a quick lunch or light dinner.
• As a Side Dish: Pair it with a grilled chicken breast, steak, or other keto-friendly main dishes.
• Topping: Use it as a topping for a bed of leafy greens or as a filling for lettuce wraps.

By following these tips and utilizing this meal prep plan, you can ensure that your Keto broccoli salad remains fresh, flavorful, and convenient throughout the week, making it a valuable addition to your meal prep routine.