This easy Keto Broccoli Salad is fresh, tasty, and so easy to make, not to mention it’s low carb and packed full of nutrients! Unlike your typical broccoli salad, many of which feature sugary dressings or dried fruits, the keto version is filled with delicious keto-friendly ingredients. Fresh broccoli florets are the foundation, providing fiber, vitamins, and a delightful crunch. They’re mixed with savory mix-ins such as crisp bacon, shredded cheese, sunflower seeds, and often with a bit of red onion for bite.
The dressing is typically a combination of mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and a low-carb sweetener like erythritol or monk fruit, which results in a tangy, creamy sauce that adds flavor to the salad without a ton of added sugar. The flavors complement each other beautifully, salty from the bacon, creamy from the dressing, and just a touch sweet from the low-carb sweetener.
It’s versatile enough to be served as a side with barbecues, picnics, or family dinners, yet hearty enough to serve as a light lunch. It can also be made ahead and refrigerated; the flavors will blend and build as it chills. Not only is this keto broccoli delicious, but it’s also super high in nutrients with a balance of healthy fats, protein, and fiber while you enjoy staying in ketosis.
Keto Broccoli Salad
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a pan over medium heat fry the bacon until crispy. Drain on paper towels, then crumble once they've cooled
- Wash and break into small florets with a bite. Pat dry
- Do a fine dice so you don't overwhelm bites
- In small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, vinegar, erythritol, salt and pepper until well combined
- In a large bowl, combine broccoli, onion, cheddar, seeds, and bacon. Pour dressing over
- Mix until everything is evenly coated
- For best flavor, refrigerate at least 30 minutes before serving
Notes
Flavour Profile of Keto Broccoli Salad
- Fresh & Crunchy- Blanched very tender, raw even, broccoli crisp, soft and earthy, a soft dance on the palate.
- Creamy & Tangy- A touch of mayonnaise, sour cream, or Greek yogurt provides the dressing with some creamy substance and a hint of tang.
- Savory & Smoky- Bacon bits bring a salty, smoky depth to counter that vegetal freshness.
- Nutty & Sweet Notes- Sunflower seeds, almonds, or pecans provide a nutty roast, and keto-friendly sweetener or berries (like cranberries) bring a touch of sweetness.
- Balanced & Satisfying- It’s refreshing, but substantial, with a satisfying variety of flavors and textures: crunchy, creamy, savory, tangy.
Keto Broccoli Salad Nutrition and Calories
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
| Calories | ~220–250 kcal |
| Total Fat | 20–22 g |
| Saturated Fat | 6–7 g |
| Protein | 7–9 g |
| Total Carbohydrates | 7 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3 g |
| Net Carbs | 4 g |
| Sugar | 2–3 g (natural, from broccoli) |
| Cholesterol | ~25–30 mg |
| Sodium | ~250 mg |
FAQs
Q1. Is broccoli salad keto-friendly?
A1. Yes — as long as it is prepared with a low-carb filling and sugar-free add-ons, it’s keto!
Q2. How many carbs in keto broccoli salad?
A2. About 4 net carb per serving.
Q3. Can I use raw broccoli or should I cook it?
A3. Both methods work raw keeps the broccoli crunchy, a brief blanch simply softens it a bit.
Q4. What is a good dressing for Broccoli salad keto?
A4. A mixture of sour cream and mayonnaise, along with apple cider vinegar and a touch of keto sweetener, will do the trick.
Q5. Can I make it dairy-free?
A5. Yes: Omit the cheese and make the dressing with dairy-free mayo or coconut yogurt.
Hi, I’m Candice Knauer!
I’m passionate about creating delicious, healthy meals that make the keto lifestyle simple and enjoyable. What started as my personal journey into low-carb cooking has grown into a collection of recipes that I love sharing with others who want to feel their best while still enjoying great food.