Crunchy, tangy, and oh-so-satisfying, this 5 Ingredient Bacon Ranch Broccoli Salad is a forking delightful dish that’ll have everyone asking for seconds!
With just a handful of ingredients, this recipe is a breeze to whip up for any occasion. Whether you’re looking to add some pizzazz to your picnic or seeking a scrumptious side for smoked chicken that’s easy to make, this salad is the perfect choice!
FAQ
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, it tastes even better when the flavors have had a chance to mingle. Just keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to serve.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you ensure that the ranch dressing and bacon you use are gluten-free, this salad can be enjoyed by those avoiding gluten.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, and they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days.
Can I add other ingredients to this salad?
Of course! Feel free to toss in some cheese, nuts, or even some chopped fruit for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
Is this salad healthy?
With broccoli as the star, you’re getting a good dose of vitamins and fiber. Plus, you can always adjust the amount of dressing to suit your dietary needs.
What are the Five Ingredients?
Let’s delve into the details of each ingredient in the 5-Ingredient Bacon Ranch Broccoli Salad:
1. Fresh Broccoli Florets:
- Broccoli is the star of this salad, providing a crunchy and nutritious base. It’s rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Make sure to wash and chop the broccoli into bite-sized florets for easy consumption.
2. Red Onion:
- Finely chopped red onion adds a vibrant and slightly pungent flavor to the salad. Red onions are known for their mild sweetness and can complement the other ingredients well.
3. Cooked Bacon:
- Crumbled bacon introduces a savory and smoky element to the salad. Cooking the bacon until it’s crispy enhances its texture and flavor. Bacon adds a delicious salty and savory note that pairs perfectly with the freshness of the broccoli.
4. Ranch Dressing:
- Ranch dressing is the creamy and tangy component that ties the salad together. It provides a smooth and rich coating for the broccoli and bacon. You can use store-bought ranch dressing or make your own for a personalized touch.
5. Shredded Cheese:
- I like to use Mexican shredded cheese but you can use cheddar, or Monterey jack, or whatever else you have on hand! I would avoid feta or gorgonzola type cheeses on this!
Optional Additions:
- While the recipe is designed with five main ingredients, you can customize the salad by adding optional extras such as sunflower seeds, or cherry tomatoes. These additions can introduce additional flavors, textures, and nutritional elements to the salad.
This 5-Ingredient Bacon Ranch Broccoli Salad is not only simple to prepare but also offers a delightful combination of textures and flavors, making it a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish.
Perfect Side for…
- Chicken Gyro | Air Fryer
- Low-Carb Smoked Meatloaf
- Smoked Corned Beef Brisket with Cabbage
- Kamado Joe Smoked Pork Ribs
Easy 5 Ingredient Bacon Ranch Broccoli Salad
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup red onion finely chopped
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon crumbled
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1/4 cup shredded cheese
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the broccoli florets and chopped red onion.
- Add the crumbled bacon to the bowl.
- Pour the ranch dressing over the broccoli mixture.
- Toss the ingredients together until the broccoli is evenly coated with the dressing.
- Season the salad with salt and pepper to taste. Keep in mind that the bacon and ranch dressing already contribute saltiness, so adjust according to your preference.
- Refrigerate the bacon ranch broccoli salad for at least 1-2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
- Before serving, give the salad a final toss, and adjust the seasoning if needed.
- Serve chilled, and enjoy your quick and delicious bacon ranch broccoli salad!
