Labor Day Loaded Broccoli Salad is the perfect side dish for a festive end-of-summer celebration. It’s packed with fresh, crisp broccoli, smoky bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and a medley of crunchy, colorful additions. Tossed in a tangy-sweet dressing, this salad strikes a perfect balance between hearty and refreshing.

FULL RECIPE

Ingredients

• 6 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 2 large heads), chopped into bite-sized pieces
• 6 slices bacon, cooked until crispy and crumbled
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup red onion, finely diced
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/3 cup sunflower seeds (shelled, unsalted or lightly salted)
• 3/4 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons honey (or sugar for a sweeter version)
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste

Directions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, bacon, cheddar cheese, red onion, dried cranberries, and sunflower seeds.
2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and honey until smooth and creamy.
3. Season the dressing with salt and black pepper to taste.
4. Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
5. Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to meld.
6. Give the salad a gentle toss before serving, adjusting seasoning if needed.

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 240
• Protein: 7g
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Cholesterol: 23mg
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 9g
• Sodium: 280mg

Nutritional Benefits of Broccoli

Broccoli is a nutritional powerhouse, making this salad a more health-conscious option compared to many creamy side dishes. It’s rich in vitamin C, vitamin K, fiber, and antioxidants that support immune function and overall wellness. The fiber aids in digestion, while antioxidants help fight inflammation and oxidative stress. Even though the recipe includes bacon and cheese for flavor, the base of fresh vegetables keeps it lighter and nutrient-dense, giving it a balance between indulgence and wholesomeness.

The Role of Bacon and Cheddar in Flavor

Bacon and cheddar are the bold flavor anchors of this salad. The bacon brings a smoky, salty crunch that pairs perfectly with the mild, slightly bitter taste of raw broccoli. The cheddar cheese contributes a tangy creaminess, creating a contrast that elevates the dish from a basic vegetable salad to a hearty side. The combination is familiar and comforting, appealing to guests who may be hesitant about eating raw broccoli. These ingredients also give the salad staying power, helping it feel more like a substantial part of the meal.

A Dressing that Balances Tangy and Sweet

The dressing for this salad is a simple yet essential component. The mayonnaise base provides creaminess, while apple cider vinegar adds a tangy brightness that cuts through the richness of the bacon and cheese. Honey—or sugar, depending on preference—brings just enough sweetness to balance the acidity. This sweet-tangy harmony ensures that the salad isn’t too heavy, making it easy to pair with grilled meats and other summer favorites. The dressing also serves as a flavor binder, helping all the elements meld into one cohesive bite.

Creative Variations to Try

While the classic recipe is delicious, there’s plenty of room for customization. For a healthier twist, swap some or all of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for extra protein and probiotics. To make it vegetarian, omit the bacon and add roasted chickpeas or toasted pumpkin seeds for crunch. If you want more sweetness, add diced apples or grapes. For a tangy kick, toss in pickled red onions or use a sharp white cheddar. You can also explore spice variations by adding cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, or a splash of hot sauce to the dressing.

Pairing Suggestions for the Perfect Meal

This salad is highly versatile when it comes to pairing. It works beautifully with grilled chicken, steaks, or barbecue ribs, balancing the richness of the meat with its fresh crunch. It also complements seafood dishes like grilled shrimp or baked salmon, where the acidity in the dressing helps cut through natural oils. For a vegetarian spread, it pairs well with pasta salads, roasted vegetable platters, or fresh fruit trays. When serving at a picnic, it fits seamlessly alongside other cold sides like coleslaw and potato salad.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

One of the biggest advantages of this salad is how well it holds up when made in advance. Preparing it at least an hour before serving allows the flavors to meld without the broccoli losing its crunch. If making a day ahead, store the dressing separately and toss with the vegetables and toppings just before serving to maintain freshness. Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to three days. While the bacon may lose a bit of crispness over time, the salad remains flavorful and satisfying.

Tips for Serving to a Large Crowd

When preparing this salad for a large gathering like a Labor Day party, scaling up is easy. Simply double or triple the recipe and serve it in a large, wide bowl for easy mixing and serving. For buffet-style events, consider pre-portioning the salad into individual cups or small bowls to make it easier for guests to grab and enjoy. Keeping a small bowl of extra dressing on the side ensures that guests who prefer a creamier texture can add more to their servings.

Dietary Modifications and Allergen-Friendly Options

It’s easy to adapt this salad for various dietary needs. For a gluten-free version, ensure that the bacon and other processed ingredients are certified gluten-free. To make it dairy-free, swap cheddar cheese for a plant-based alternative. Nut allergies aren’t a concern here since sunflower seeds are used instead of nuts, but they can be replaced with pumpkin seeds or omitted entirely. Reducing the mayonnaise and adding more vinegar and honey creates a lighter dressing for those watching calorie intake.

Conclusion

Labor Day Loaded Broccoli Salad offers the best of both worlds crisp, refreshing vegetables paired with indulgent, savory add-ins. Its balance of flavors and textures makes it appealing to almost any crowd, while its adaptability ensures it can fit various dietary needs and occasions. From the nutritional benefits of broccoli to the richness of bacon and cheddar, every element works together to create a memorable dish.