Broccoli Salad with Bacon and Grapes

Sweet, salty, crunchy, and creamy—this Broccoli Salad with Bacon and Grapes is the perfect balance of flavors and textures! The combination of crisp broccoli, juicy grapes, and smoky bacon, all tossed in a creamy, tangy dressing, makes this a dish that stands out at any gathering. It is easy to prepare and pairs well with everything from grilled meats to sandwiches, making it a versatile addition to your meal rotation.

What makes this salad so special is the contrast of flavors. The natural sweetness of grapes balances out the savory crunch of bacon, while the nutty sunflower seeds add an extra layer of texture. The dressing, a blend of mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, honey, and apple cider vinegar, brings everything together with a smooth and slightly tangy finish.

Whether you’re making this salad for a summer picnic, a holiday potluck, or just a quick weekday lunch, it is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. It is packed with nutrients from fresh vegetables and healthy fats from the seeds, and you can easily customize it to suit your taste. Once you try it, you may find yourself making it on repeat.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 6

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped small
• 1 cup red grapes, halved
• 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
• 1/4 cup sunflower seeds or sliced almonds
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

For the Creamy Dressing:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt (or sour cream)
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey
• Salt and black pepper to taste

How to Make It

1. Cook the Bacon – Heat a skillet over medium heat and lay the bacon strips in a single layer. Cook for about 4-5 minutes per side or until crispy. Remove the bacon from the pan and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease. Once cooled, crumble it into small pieces.

2. Prepare the Dressing – In a small mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, and honey. Whisk until smooth and well incorporated. Taste and season with salt and black pepper as needed. Set aside to allow the flavors to blend.

3. Chop the Ingredients – Cut the broccoli into small, bite-sized florets to ensure even distribution in every bite. Slice the grapes in half for a juicy burst of sweetness. Dice the red onion finely to add a mild, slightly sharp contrast to the salad.

4. Assemble the Salad – In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, halved grapes, diced red onion, sunflower seeds, and shredded cheddar cheese if using. Add the crumbled bacon and toss everything gently to mix.

5. Toss with Dressing – Pour the dressing over the salad and use a large spoon or spatula to toss until all the ingredients are evenly coated. Make sure each piece of broccoli gets a good amount of dressing for the best flavor.

6. Chill & Serve – Cover the salad and let it sit in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and enhances the overall taste. Give it a final toss before serving and enjoy.

Tips & Tricks

• Blanch the Broccoli – If you prefer a softer texture, blanch the broccoli for 30 seconds, then quickly rinse with cold water.
• Make it Lighter – Swap mayo for all Greek yogurt or use a light mayo.
• Meal Prep Friendly – Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Add a Crunch – Toss in some toasted pecans or walnuts for extra texture.

Variations

• Vegan-Friendly – Use vegan mayo and swap bacon for crispy chickpeas or coconut bacon.
• Extra Protein – Add grilled chicken for a hearty meal.
• Tangy Twist – Try adding a splash of lemon juice or a handful of dried cranberries for a zingy contrast.

Why You’ll Love This

✅ Quick & Easy to Make
✅ Perfect for Meal Prep & Gatherings
✅ A Delicious Balance of Sweet, Salty & Crunchy
✅ Customizable with Your Favorite Ingredients

Pinterest Pro Tip

Save this recipe for your next picnic or potluck! The flavors get even better after a few hours in the fridge. #BroccoliSalad #HealthyEats #MealPrepIdeas