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Crispy Bacon Broccoli Salad Recipe with Toasted Almonds Easy Honey Dressing

crispy bacon broccoli salad - featured image

A crunchy and flavorful broccoli salad featuring crispy bacon, toasted almonds, and a sweet honey dressing. Perfect for gatherings or quick weeknight meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups broccoli florets, chopped into bite-sized pieces
  • 6 to 8 slices thick-cut bacon, cooked crispy and chopped
  • ½ cup sliced or slivered almonds, toasted until golden brown
  • ¼ cup red onion, finely diced
  • 2 tablespoons sunflower seeds (optional)
  • 3 tablespoons honey (preferably raw or local)
  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the bacon: Place 6 to 8 bacon slices in a cold skillet and turn heat to medium. Cook for 8 to 10 minutes, turning occasionally, until crispy. Drain on paper towels and chop into bite-sized pieces.
  2. Toast the almonds: Wipe out the skillet and heat over medium. Add ½ cup sliced almonds and stir frequently for 3 to 5 minutes until golden and fragrant. Transfer immediately to a plate to stop cooking.
  3. Prepare the broccoli: Rinse 4 cups broccoli florets and pat dry. Chop into small, even bites.
  4. Dice the onion: Finely chop ¼ cup red onion. Soak in cold water for 10 minutes if a milder flavor is desired, then drain.
  5. Make the dressing: Whisk together ½ cup mayonnaise, 3 tablespoons honey, and 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar. Season with salt and pepper to taste until smooth and glossy.
  6. Combine salad ingredients: In a large bowl, mix broccoli, bacon, toasted almonds, diced onion, and sunflower seeds if using. Pour dressing over and toss gently to coat evenly.
  7. Chill before serving: Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld and salad crisp up. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

Start bacon in a cold pan for crispier results. Toast almonds carefully to avoid burning. Whisk dressing ingredients thoroughly for a smooth texture. Salad can be served immediately but chilling enhances flavor and texture. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge up to 3 days. Reheat bacon bits in a skillet to restore crispness before adding to salad.

Nutrition

Keywords: broccoli salad, bacon salad, honey dressing, toasted almonds, easy salad, quick salad, crowd-pleaser, potluck salad