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Keto Bacon Ranch Broccoli Salad - Creamy, Crunchy, and Low-Carb

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

Ingredients
  

  • Broccoli florets (about 6 cups, cut into bite-size pieces)
  • Bacon (8 slices, cooked crisp and crumbled)
  • Cheddar cheese (1 cup, shredded; sharp cheddar works best)
  • Red onion (1/4 cup, finely minced)
  • Sunflower seeds (1/3 cup, shelled and unsalted)
  • Fresh parsley or dill (2 tablespoons, chopped; optional but brightens the flavor)
  • Mayonnaise (3/4 cup; choose a clean, sugar-free brand)
  • Sour cream (1/2 cup; Greek yogurt works if you’re not strict keto)
  • Apple cider vinegar or lemon juice (1–2 tablespoons, to taste)
  • Garlic powder (1 teaspoon)
  • Onion powder (1 teaspoon)
  • Dried dill (1 teaspoon; or 1 tablespoon fresh, minced)
  • Dried parsley (1 teaspoon; or 1 tablespoon fresh, minced)
  • Chives (1 teaspoon dried or 1 tablespoon fresh, minced)
  • Salt and black pepper (to taste)
  • Almond milk or water (1–2 tablespoons, optional, to thin if needed)

Method
 

  1. Cook the bacon. Pan-fry or bake the bacon until crisp. Drain on paper towels and crumble. Set aside.
  2. Prep the broccoli. Rinse and pat dry. Cut into small, bite-size florets. Smaller pieces hold the dressing better and are easier to eat.
  3. Optional quick blanch. If you prefer a slightly tender crunch, blanch the broccoli in boiling salted water for 45–60 seconds, then plunge into an ice bath. Drain very well. For maximum crunch, skip this step.
  4. Make the ranch dressing. In a bowl, whisk mayonnaise, sour cream, vinegar or lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, dill, parsley, and chives. Season with salt and pepper. If it’s too thick, whisk in a splash of almond milk or water until creamy and pourable but not runny.
  5. Combine the salad. In a large bowl, add broccoli, crumbled bacon, cheddar, red onion, sunflower seeds, and fresh herbs (if using).
  6. Toss with dressing. Pour in the dressing and toss until everything is evenly coated. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or acidity.
  7. Chill for best flavor. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This helps the flavors meld and the onion mellow.
  8. Serve. Give it a quick toss before serving and garnish with extra bacon or herbs if you like.