This Heart Healthy Broccoli Salad with Bacon and Raisins delivers big flavor and a bold crunch in every bite, proving that healthy sides are anything but boring. By swapping traditional mayonnaise for a tangy dressing made with nonfat Greek yogurt, this recipe cuts saturated fat while boosting protein to 11g per serving. Crisp blanched broccoli, sweet golden raisins, and savory low-sodium bacon come together for a nutrient-dense dish that holds up perfectly for meal prep. Whether you are looking for a diabetic-friendly option or just the best broccoli salad recipe ever, this dish is a crowd-pleaser.
If you love this lighter take on a classic, check out our other healthy side dish recipes for more inspiration, or browse our high protein salad recipes to keep you feeling full and satisfied.
By replacing the standard mayonnaise base with nonfat Greek yogurt, this salad drastically reduces saturated fat and calories while adding a boost of protein and probiotics. The use of low-sodium bacon and plenty of fiber-rich vegetables ensures you get that classic creamy, savory experience in a heart-smart profile.
Yes, this salad is nutrient-dense and packed with fiber, protein, and vitamins, making it a healthy addition to your daily diet. Unlike mayo-heavy versions, this recipe is lower in saturated fat.
The key is to dry your broccoli thoroughly after washing or blanching. Excess water dilutes the dressing. Also, storing the dressing separately and tossing it right before serving can keep it maximally crisp, though this recipe holds up well in the fridge for a few days.
We do not recommend using frozen broccoli for this salad. Frozen broccoli releases a lot of water when thawed and has a soft, mushy texture that doesn't work well for a fresh salad. Fresh florets are best for that signature crunch.
While broccoli and bacon are keto-friendly, raisins and carrots add natural sugars and carbs. To make it more keto-aligned, omit the raisins and reduce the amount of carrots, or swap the raisins for a small amount of sugar-free dried cranberries.
Looking to boost your protein intake even further? These hearty, high-protein salads transform light greens into satisfying main courses that keep you fueled for hours.
Round out your next potluck or barbecue spread with these lighter takes on classic picnic favorites. From fresh fruit medleys to creamy potato salads, these recipes deliver big flavor without the heavy calorie count.
Greek yogurt is the secret weapon in this recipe. Unlike traditional mayonnaise, which is calorie-dense and high in fat, nonfat Greek yogurt provides a rich, creamy texture with zero fat and a significant protein punch. Its natural tanginess mimics the flavor of buttermilk often found in creamy dressings, making it the perfect vehicle for the apple cider vinegar and Dijon mustard. Plus, it adds beneficial probiotics to your meal.
Recipe yields 6 servings
Bring a large saucepan or pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Fill a large bowl with cold water and ice. Add broccoli and blanche until just fork tender and bright green, about 1 minute. Working quickly, use a slotted spoon to transfer broccoli to prepared ice bath (Note: you want the cooking process to stop as soon as possible so the broccoli does not get soft). Let cool completely and drain into a colander.
Transfer cooked broccoli to a large mixing bowl. Add carrots, onion, bacon, raisins, and almonds.
In a medium mixing bowl, combine Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and black pepper; whisk until well combined. Pour dressing over broccoli salad mixture and stir to coat evenly. Serve immediately or cover and refrigerate until ready to serve. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
This salad actually tastes better after it has had time to sit! Letting it marinate in the refrigerator for at least one hour allows the flavors to meld and the broccoli to soften slightly in the dressing. It can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Because the broccoli is blanched, it stays crisp longer than raw broccoli salads, but give it a good stir before serving to redistribute the dressing.
This salad is the ideal companion for grilled lean proteins. Serve it alongside Heart Healthy Chicken Parmesan, grilled salmon, or turkey burgers. It also pairs wonderfully with other picnic favorites like Heart Healthy German Potato Salad or a fresh fruit platter.
For Bacon: If you prefer a non-pork option, turkey bacon works beautifully. For a vegetarian version, try smoked almonds or roasted pumpkin seeds to replicate that savory crunch.
For Greek Yogurt: Plain nonfat Greek yogurt is best, but you can use a low-fat plain regular yogurt if you strain it first to remove excess whey.
For Golden Raisins: Dried cranberries (craisins) or chopped dates are excellent alternatives if you want a different dried fruit sweetness.
For Almonds: Sunflower seeds, walnuts, or pecans can be swapped in for the sliced almonds.
For Sweetener: If your dressing needs a touch more sweetness to balance the vinegar, a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup is a natural choice.