Broccoli Cheddar Bacon Salad (Anti-Inflammatory Version)
A fresh, crunchy, and flavorful twist on the classic comfort-food favorite, this Anti-Inflammatory Broccoli Cheddar Bacon Salad swaps traditional ingredients for nutrient-dense, whole-food alternatives. It’s loaded with fiber-rich broccoli, antioxidant-packed vegetables, healthy fats, and a creamy clean dressing — making it perfect for a healthy lifestyle, weight management, and anti-inflammatory meal planning.
🌿 Why This Version Is Anti-Inflammatory
This upgraded recipe:
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Uses Greek yogurt or avocado oil mayo instead of processed mayo
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Incorporates olive oil (rich in polyphenols)
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Adds turmeric for natural inflammation support
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Offers optional nitrate-free turkey bacon or plant-based alternatives
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Eliminates refined sugar
It’s ideal for anyone following a clean eating diet, Mediterranean diet, heart-healthy meal plan, or anti-inflammatory nutrition plan.
📝 Ingredients (Serves 6–8)
Salad Base
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6 cups fresh broccoli florets (chopped bite-sized)
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1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (preferably grass-fed)
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6 slices nitrate-free turkey bacon or baked tempeh bacon, cooked & crumbled
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¼ cup finely diced red onion
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¼ cup raw sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds
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¼ cup dried cranberries (unsweetened, optional)
Anti-Inflammatory Dressing
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¾ cup plain Greek yogurt (or avocado oil mayo)
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2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
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1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (with the mother)
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1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
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½ teaspoon turmeric
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½ teaspoon garlic powder
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1–2 teaspoons raw honey (optional)
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Salt & black pepper to taste
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1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
👩🍳 Instructions
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Prep the Broccoli
Wash and thoroughly dry. Chop into small, bite-sized florets. -
Cook the Bacon
Bake turkey bacon at 400°F (200°C) for 10–15 minutes until crisp. Cool and crumble. -
Make the Dressing
In a bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, mustard, turmeric, lemon juice, honey (if using), and seasonings. -
Assemble
In a large bowl, combine broccoli, cheddar, bacon, onion, seeds, and cranberries. -
Mix & Chill
Pour dressing over salad and toss until evenly coated. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to enhance flavor.
🍽 Serving Suggestions
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Serve alongside grilled salmon for a heart-healthy dinner.
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Pair with roasted chicken breast for a high-protein meal prep option.
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Add to a summer BBQ spread as a healthy side dish alternative.
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Spoon into whole-grain wraps for a fiber-rich lunch.
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Top with grilled shrimp for a complete anti-inflammatory power bowl.
🔄 Variations
Keto-Friendly Version
Skip cranberries and honey; use full-fat dressing.
Vegan Version
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Use vegan cheddar
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Swap turkey bacon for coconut bacon or smoked tempeh
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Use plant-based yogurt
Low-Carb / Diabetic-Friendly
Use monk fruit instead of honey and reduce onion.
Mediterranean Boost
Add olives, cherry tomatoes, and feta.
🧠 Health Benefits
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Broccoli: Rich in sulforaphane, supports detoxification and reduces inflammation
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Olive Oil: Heart-healthy monounsaturated fats
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Turmeric: Contains curcumin, a powerful anti-inflammatory compound
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Greek Yogurt: Probiotics support gut health
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Pumpkin Seeds: High in magnesium and zinc
This salad supports:
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Gut health
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Immune function
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Blood sugar balance
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Weight management
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Cardiovascular health
📊 Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving – Approximate)
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Calories: 260–300
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Protein: 14g
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Fat: 20g
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Carbohydrates: 10–14g
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Fiber: 3–4g
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Sugar: 4–6g
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Omega-3 & anti-inflammatory compounds: Present
Nutritional values vary based on ingredient brands and substitutions.
❓ Related Questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! It actually tastes better after chilling 1–2 hours.
How long does it last?
Up to 3 days refrigerated in an airtight container.
Can I blanch the broccoli?
Yes, lightly blanch for 30 seconds if you prefer a softer texture.
Is this good for weight loss?
Yes, it’s high in fiber and protein, which promote satiety.
Is cheddar inflammatory?
Moderation is key. Opting for grass-fed cheese may provide more beneficial fats.
💡 Final Thoughts
This Anti-Inflammatory Broccoli Cheddar Bacon Salad is the perfect blend of comfort food and functional nutrition. It delivers bold flavor, satisfying crunch, and powerful health benefits — without processed ingredients or added sugars.
