This low carb keto broccoli salad needs just a few simple ingredients and is fantastic for BBQs, potlucks and family gatherings because of the easy meal prep to make it ahead. This low-carb broccoli salad is perfect for those on a keto diet or low carb diet with just 6 g net carbs per serving.

The Best Broccoli Salad Recipe

Traditional broccoli salad recipes usually include sugar in the dressing which would spike blood sugar and raise insulin and definitely kick you out of ketosis if you are following a ketogenic diet.

Our tangy dressing does not include sugar and will not raise your blood glucose levels so you can enjoy a nice serving of this delicious broccoli salad without worry.

This is a perfect keto side dish but feel free to add any protein you like to turn it into a terrific main dish meal the whole family will love.

Why This Low Carb Broccoli Salad Is Perfect for Meal Prep

If you’re looking for a quick side dish for your next potluck, BBQ, picnic, or family gathering, this broccoli salad recipe is a great way to save time.

Unlike leafy green salads that become soggy quickly, crisp-tender broccoli holds up well in the refrigerator. You can prepare this keto broccoli salad up to two days ahead of serving, making it one of the easiest make-ahead side dishes for busy weeks.

Because it’s naturally gluten free, low carb, and packed with healthy fats, it’s also a great option for anyone following a keto diet, low carb lifestyle, or looking to keep blood sugar balanced.

Tips for the Best Keto Broccoli Salad

This easy broccoli salad is one of my favorite ways to enjoy fresh broccoli because it stays crisp and delicious even after sitting in the refrigerator for a day or two. Here are my best tips for making a healthy side dish everyone will love:

For extra crunch, add additional sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, or chopped pecans.

Use fresh broccoli florets for the best texture. Fresh broccoli provides a crunchy bite that works perfectly with the creamy broccoli salad dressing.

Cut broccoli into small pieces so every bite gets a little bacon, onion, and dressing.

Dry the broccoli well after blanching. Excess water can make the dressing thin and prevent it from coating the broccoli evenly.

Make it ahead. This low carb broccoli salad tastes even better after a few hours in the refrigerator because the flavors have time to blend together.

Reserve some bacon to sprinkle on top just before serving for the best crunch.

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh broccoli florets?

If you want to use frozen broccoli you will need to defrost it and drain excess water before using for this salad.

Do I need to blanch the broccoli?

Classic broccoli salad uses fresh, uncooked broccoli so it is totally fine to not blanch the broccoli. I find blanching to help with digesting better and still provides a nice crunchy tasty salad.

Can I use turkey bacon?

Turkey bacon is a great option to use if you don’t like pork bacon.

What proteins can I add to this keto salad?

Cooked chicken thighs or chicken breasts, ground beef or even pork chops are a great addition to this salad.

Can I use already cooked bacon bits?

I would not recommend using store bought bacon bits as the ingredients usually contain yeast extract which is MSG as well as canola oil which is a highly refined and inflammatory oil.

Can I leave out the low carb sweetener in the dressing?

Yes, you can leave out the sweetener in the dressing if you prefer.

Can I replace the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt?

Yes if you would like to replace the mayo used here with Greek yogurt that would be fine.

Can I prepare this low carb broccoli salad recipe ahead of time?

Yes this recipe for broccoli salad can be made up to 2 days ahead and in fact the flavors will be even better as it has time to mingle in the fridge.

Ingredient Swaps and Variations

One of the best things about this keto broccoli bacon salad is how easy it is to customize.

Swap the Dressing

Instead of mayonnaise, try:

• Greek yogurt
• Sour cream
• Half mayonnaise and half Greek yogurt
• Avocado oil mayonnaise

You can also swap the apple cider vinegar for:

• Red wine vinegar
• White wine vinegar
• Fresh lemon juice

Add More Flavor

Try adding:

• Sharp cheddar cheese
• Green onions
• Diced celery
• Chopped pecans
• Pumpkin seeds
• Dried cranberries (if not keto)

Turn It Into a Main Dish

This is a perfect keto side dish but feel free to add any protein you like to turn it into a terrific main dish meal the whole family will love.

This healthy broccoli salad can easily become a complete meal by adding:

• Hard boiled eggs
• Cooked chicken breast
• Cooked Chicken thighs
• Cooked Ground beef
• Cooked Pulled pork
• Grilled steak

Is Broccoli Keto Friendly?

Yes! Broccoli is one of the best vegetables for a low carb diet.

One cup of raw broccoli contains about 6 grams of carbohydrates and 2 grams of fiber, making it a nutritious vegetable with a relatively low carb count. Broccoli is also rich in vitamin C, vitamin K, potassium, and fiber.

That’s why broccoli recipes are so popular among those following a ketogenic diet or simply trying to eat more whole foods.

Can I Use Broccoli Slaw Instead?

Absolutely!

Broccoli slaw is a great shortcut when you’re short on time. Simply replace the chopped broccoli florets with broccoli slaw and toss with the broccoli salad dressing. This creates a crunchy raw broccoli salad that’s perfect for meal prep and summer gatherings.

Serving Suggestions

This keto broccoli bacon salad pairs perfectly with:

• Grilled burgers
• BBQ chicken
• Pulled pork
• Steak tips
• Grilled sausages
• Hot dogs wrapped in your low carb buns

It’s one of my favorite ways to bring a healthy side dish to a summer BBQ or next potluck because even people who aren’t following a low carb diet love it.

How to Store Easy Low Carb Broccoli Salad

The best way to keep this keto salad fresh is storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

More Easy Keto Recipes for BBQs

Keto Coleslaw

Cauliflower Mock Potato salad

Antipasto Cauliflower Rice Salad

Cucumber Dill Salad

Avocado Tomato Salad

Pico De Gallo

Low Carb Keto Broccoli Salad Recipe