Amish Broccoli Salad – A Crisp, Creamy Classic Made Lighter

Amish Broccoli Salad is a timeless side dish that brings a satisfying crunch, creamy dressing, and savory-sweet contrast all in one bowl. This version keeps the essence of the traditional recipe—fresh broccoli, smoky bits, and a touch of sweetness—but lightens it up just enough to make it fit your health goals. It’s perfect for picnics, potlucks, or meal prep lunches that don’t feel like a compromise.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Fresh & Flavorful: Crisp veggies with a creamy, tangy-sweet dressing.
Lightened-Up Dressing: Uses healthier swaps without losing taste.
Meal-Prep Friendly: Stays crisp for days in the fridge.
Perfect for Sharing: A hit at cookouts, holidays, or casual dinners.

Ingredients

• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped small
• ½ cup shredded carrots
• ¼ cup finely chopped red onion
• ⅓ cup center-cut bacon or turkey bacon, cooked and crumbled
• ⅓ cup reduced-fat shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
• 2 tbsp sunflower seeds or chopped almonds (optional)

For the Dressing:

• ½ cup light mayonnaise
• ¼ cup plain nonfat Greek yogurt
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp honey or sugar-free maple syrup
• Salt & pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Mix the Veggies
In a large bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, shredded carrots, red onion, bacon, and cheese (if using).

2. Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the light mayo, Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, and sweetener of choice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

3. Toss and Chill
Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to let the flavors meld.

4. Serve
Stir again just before serving. Top with sunflower seeds or almonds for extra crunch if desired.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)

Calories: 120
Carbs: 9g
Fat: 7g
Protein: 6g
Fiber: 2g

Tips for Success

• Chop Broccoli Finely: Smaller pieces soak up more dressing and taste better.
• Customize the Sweetener: Use honey, maple syrup, or a sugar-free alternative depending on your preference.
• Add Crunch at the End: Sprinkle seeds or nuts right before serving to keep them crispy.
• Make Ahead: The salad gets better after chilling—perfect for prepping the night before.

Why This Recipe Works

By using a combination of light mayo and Greek yogurt, you get the creamy texture and tangy flavor without the heaviness. The balance of fresh vegetables, smoky bacon, and subtle sweetness makes each bite satisfying and wholesome.

This lighter take on Amish Broccoli Salad proves you don’t have to sacrifice flavor to eat well. It’s refreshing, creamy, and totally craveable—great as a side, a lunch, or a potluck contribution. Once you try it, you’ll want to keep it in your regular rotation.