Say Goodbye To Mayo With This Vibrant Broccoli Bacon Salad

Light and delicious, this mayo-free broccoli bacon salad is ideal for casual gatherings. The lemony dressing brightens up every bite, while the pumpkin seeds add an irresistible crunch. Perfect for your next picnic! 🥳🌞

Gluten-Free Mayo-Free Broccoli Bacon Salad with Toasted Pumpkin Seeds

Looking for a fresh and exciting salad that’s perfect for picnics, potlucks, and casual get-togethers? Our Mayo-Free Broccoli Bacon Salad with Toasted Pumpkin Seeds is the answer! This chilled salad is a refreshing twist on the classic broccoli salad, and it’s sure to be a hit wherever you take it.

What sets this salad apart is its bright, tangy dressing made without mayonnaise. Instead, we’ve used greek yogurt, fresh lemon juice and zest to add a vibrant flavor that complements the crisp-tender broccoli perfectly. The result is a light, zesty dressing that coats every bite with a refreshing zing. Add in the savory crunch of crispy bacon and the nutty goodness of toasted pumpkin seeds, and you’ve got a salad that’s bursting with texture and flavor.

One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility and ease. It’s a great make-ahead option—if you have the time, prepare it the night before to let the flavors meld together beautifully. The extra time allows the lemony dressing to soak into the broccoli, making each bite even more delicious. Plus, it means less work on the day of your event!

This Mayo-Free Broccoli Bacon Salad is not only delicious but also a bit healthier than traditional versions. The absence of mayo lightens things up, while still providing all the satisfying crunch and rich flavor you love. It’s a dish that feels indulgent yet wholesome, perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as a side for your family meals.

So, whether you’re planning a summer picnic, a potluck with friends, or just need a tasty side dish for dinner, give this salad a try. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and sure to become a favorite. Get ready to impress your friends and family with a salad that’s as delightful to look at as it is to eat!

Prep time: 15-20 minutes
Chill time: 30 minutes to overnight
Serves 4

Ingredients

Dressing:

• 3/4 c. full-fat, non-flavored Greek yogurt
• 1 T. honey* or one very small pinch Stevia powder
• 2 T. fresh lemon juice
• 1 T. fresh lemon zest
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste.

Broccoli Salad:

• ½ small red onion, outer skin removed and cut into thin slices
• 2 large heads fresh broccoli, tough stems removed, rinsed, and broken into florets
• 6 slices bacon, cooked crispy and crumbled
• ¼ c. fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1/3 c. toasted pumpkin seeds, unsalted

How to Make Broccoli Bacon Salad

1. To make the dressing, combine the Greek yogurt, honey, lemon juice, and zest in a small bowl. Season with salt and pepper, to taste. Set aside.
2. Add the broccoli florets to a large, microwave-safe dish and add 2-3 T. water. Cover and microwave on high for 4-5 minutes, or until florets are crisp tender. (Check after 3 minutes and adjust cooking times accordingly).
3. Remove from microwave and drain excess liquid. Set aside, uncovered, and allow steamed florets to cool.
4. In a large glass or other non-reactive bowl, combine the red onion, broccoli, crumbled bacon, and fresh parsley. Toss gently to combine. Top with ½ Greek yogurt dressing and toss again until ingredients are thoroughly coated. Cover and refrigerate 30 minutes or overnight before serving. Cover and reserve remaining dressing, as well.
5. Toss chilled salad with remaining dressing right before serving, or serve on the side for those who prefer a little extra dressing. Sprinkle with the toasted pumpkin seeds right before serving to keep them crunchy.

*1 tablespoon of honey contains up to 17 grams of carbs, or approximately 4¼ grams per serving. If you are on a low-carb diet you can use a very small amount of stevia powder or liquid as a substitute.