If you’ve been searching for a fresh, vibrant, and irresistibly tasty side dish, this Broccoli Salad with Lighter Creamy Dressing Recipe is exactly what you need. It beautifully balances crisp broccoli florets with a delightful combination of smoky bacon, tart cranberries, and crunchy almonds, all brought together by a refreshingly light yet creamy dressing. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or just looking to brighten up your weeknight meals, this salad offers a perfect harmony of flavors and textures that is as wholesome as it is addictive.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this broccoli salad lies in its simplicity—each ingredient shines on its own while contributing to a dynamic and exciting ensemble. From the fresh crunch of broccoli to the sweet-tart burst of dried cranberries and the smoky punch of bacon, every component adds a unique element that makes the salad really sing.
- Broccoli florets (500 g/1 lb): Choose fresh, bright green heads for the best crunch and flavor.
- Bacon (150 g/5 oz): Cook until golden and crispy to add hearty texture and smoky depth.
- Dried cranberries (3/4 cup): These give a delightful fruity tartness; raisins or blueberries work well too.
- Almond slivers (1/2 cup): Provide a satisfying crunch and mild nuttiness that complements the other textures.
- Red onion (1/2, finely sliced): Adds a subtle sharpness without overpowering the dressing.
- Mayonnaise (1/2 cup): Forms the creamy base of the dressing, keeping it luscious yet light.
- Greek yoghurt or sour cream (3/4 cup): Adds tang and creaminess, balancing the mayonnaise perfectly.
- Low-fat milk (1/4 cup/65 ml): Thins the dressing to a pourable consistency that’s easy to toss through the salad.
- Lemon juice or cider vinegar (1/4 cup/65 ml): Brings a bright, zesty acidity that lifts the flavors.
- Garlic cloves (2, minced): Infuses the dressing with gentle savory warmth.
- Onion powder, garlic powder, mustard powder (1 tsp each): These spices deepen the dressing’s flavor profile with subtle complexity.
- Sugar (1 tbsp): Balances the acidity with just a hint of sweetness.
- Dried dill (1 1/2 tsp): Offers a fresh, herbaceous note that brightens every bite.
- Dried parsley (1 tsp): Adds a mild, earthy punch to the dressing.
- Salt (1 tsp) and finely ground pepper (1/4 tsp): Essential for seasoning and bringing all flavors together.
How to Make Broccoli Salad with Lighter Creamy Dressing Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli
Start by cutting the broccoli florets into slices no thicker than 0.7 cm or about a quarter inch. This ensures every bite has a perfect crunch and the broccoli absorbs the dressing beautifully without becoming soggy.
Step 2: Combine Salad Ingredients
Place the sliced broccoli into a large bowl and add the crispy bacon, dried cranberries, almond slivers, and finely sliced red onion. These ingredients not only make the salad colorful but also pack a variety of flavors and textures that contrast deliciously.
Step 3: Whisk the Lighter Creamy Dressing
In a separate large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yoghurt (or sour cream), low-fat milk, lemon juice, minced garlic, onion powder, garlic powder, mustard powder, sugar, dried dill, dried parsley, salt, and pepper. Whisking thoroughly is key—your dressing should be smooth, thin, and pourable. This makes it easy to coat every bit of the salad without feeling heavy.
Step 4: Toss Salad with Dressing
Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture and toss everything well until every piece is coated in that luscious lighter creamy dressing. This step transforms simple ingredients into something truly magical.
Step 5: Refrigerate and Serve
Cover your salad and refrigerate it overnight, or at least two hours to let the flavors meld and the dressing fully soak into the broccoli and mix-ins. Remove the salad from the fridge about 10-15 minutes before serving so it comes to room temperature, which really elevates the taste experience.
How to Serve Broccoli Salad with Lighter Creamy Dressing Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra pop of color and freshness, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley or chives over the salad just before serving. You could also add a few additional almond slivers or a light drizzle of lemon juice to brighten the presentation and flavor further.
Side Dishes
This broccoli salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, fish, or even alongside your favorite sandwiches. It adds a fresh, crunchy contrast to richer dishes and is an absolute crowd-pleaser at potlucks and picnic spreads.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the salad in individual glass jars or small bowls for a charming presentation at parties or gatherings. Layering the salad components and adding the dressing just before serving keeps everything crisp and visually inviting. You could also use it as a topping for baked potatoes or as a filling in wraps for a light lunch option.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, no worries! Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors actually deepen, but the almonds might soften slightly over time, so for the best texture, consider adding some fresh almonds when serving leftovers.
Freezing
This salad is best enjoyed fresh and does not freeze well because the broccoli and dressing separate when thawed, and the texture becomes mushy. It’s best to prepare it fresh or make the dressing ahead and combine right before serving.
Reheating
Since this is a cold salad, reheating isn’t necessary or recommended. Simply bring it to room temperature before serving to enjoy the full flavor and texture experience.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli for this salad?
While fresh broccoli gives the best crunch and texture, you can use frozen broccoli if you thaw and drain it very well first. However, it may result in a softer salad, so fresh is definitely preferred for this Broccoli Salad with Lighter Creamy Dressing Recipe.
Is it possible to make this salad vegan?
Absolutely! Substitute the bacon with smoked tempeh or mushrooms, use a vegan mayonnaise and plant-based yogurt, and adjust seasonings to taste. The almonds and cranberries still provide fantastic texture and flavor.
How long does the salad keep its crispness?
The salad remains crisp for about two days in the refrigerator. The broccoli will soften slightly after that. To keep it crunchier longer, store the dressing separately and toss just before serving.
Can I add other vegetables or nuts?
Definitely! Chopped bell peppers, shredded carrots, or toasted walnuts or pecans can add interesting variations. Keep in mind that these changes will create a different flavor profile but still delicious.
What can I use instead of bacon?
If you prefer a vegetarian option or want less fat, try crispy roasted chickpeas or smoked paprika roasted nuts for smoky flavor and crunch without the meat.
Final Thoughts
This Broccoli Salad with Lighter Creamy Dressing Recipe quickly becomes a backyard BBQ staple and a family favorite because it’s bursting with flavor while feeling fresh and light. It’s one of those dishes that’s both comforting and lively, perfect for all seasons and occasions. Give it a try and watch it disappear fast — it might just become your new go-to salad!
Print
Broccoli Salad with Lighter Creamy Dressing Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: 6-8 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A fresh and flavorful Broccoli Salad featuring crisp broccoli florets, savory bacon, and sweet dried cranberries, all tossed in a lighter creamy dressing made with Greek yogurt and mayonnaise. This salad is perfect for potlucks, picnics, or as a nutritious side dish that balances creamy, tangy, and crunchy elements.
Ingredients
Salad
- 500 g (1 lb) broccoli florets (2 large heads, approx. 22 cm / 9″ diameter)
- 150 g (5 oz) bacon, chopped and cooked until golden
- 3/4 cup dried cranberries (or substitute with raisins, sultanas, or blueberries)
- 1/2 cup almond slivers
- 1/2 red onion, finely sliced
Dressing
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 3/4 cup Greek yoghurt or sour cream
- 1/4 cup (65 ml) low-fat milk
- 1/4 cup (65 ml) lemon juice (or cider vinegar)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp mustard powder
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 1/2 tsp dried dill
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp finely ground black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare Broccoli: Slice the broccoli florets into thin slices no thicker than 0.7 cm (1/4 inch) to ensure the salad has a tender yet crisp texture.
- Combine Salad Ingredients: Place the sliced broccoli in a large bowl along with the cooked bacon, dried cranberries, almond slivers, and finely sliced red onion.
- Mix Dressing: In a separate large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yoghurt (or sour cream), low-fat milk, lemon juice (or cider vinegar), minced garlic, onion powder, garlic powder, mustard powder, sugar, dried dill, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper. Whisk thoroughly until the dressing is well incorporated and has a thin, pourable consistency.
- Toss Salad with Dressing: Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture and toss everything well to coat all ingredients evenly with the creamy dressing.
- Chill and Serve: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, ideally overnight, to allow the flavors to meld. Before serving, remove from the fridge and bring to room temperature for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- For best flavor, prepare the salad a day in advance and refrigerate overnight.
- You can substitute dried cranberries with raisins, sultanas, or blueberries depending on your taste preference.
- Adjust the sugar quantity if you prefer a less sweet dressing.
- Use low-fat milk and Greek yogurt for a lighter creamy dressing.
- Make sure to slice the broccoli thinly to avoid a tough texture.
