As a busy mom, I know how challenging it can be to whip up something delicious and satisfying in a hurry. That’s why I absolutely adore this Bacon Ranch Chopped Salad! It’s a vibrant medley of fresh vegetables, crispy bacon, and creamy ranch dressing that comes together in just 25 minutes. Whether you’re looking for a quick solution for a busy day or a dish to impress your loved ones at gatherings, this salad is a winner. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it a regular on your dinner table!
Why You’ll Love This Bacon Ranch Chopped Salad
This Bacon Ranch Chopped Salad is not just a feast for the eyes; it’s a breeze to make! With minimal prep time, you can have a hearty meal ready in no time. The combination of crispy bacon and fresh veggies creates a flavor explosion that will delight your taste buds. Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve as a light lunch or a side dish at your next gathering. What’s not to love?
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Crispy Bacon Salad: A Must-Try Flavor Sensation!
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6-8 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A hearty and flavorful salad bursting with fresh vegetables, crispy bacon, and a creamy ranch dressing, perfect for a light meal or a side dish at gatherings.
Ingredients
- 3–4 cups of broccoli florets, finely chopped
- 3–4 cups of cauliflower, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup of red onion, diced
- 1/2 cup of green bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup of red sweet pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup of carrots, finely sliced and diced
- 1/2 cup of sweet corn (canned or fresh)
- 10 slices of bacon, cooked, drained, and chopped
- 1 cup of Colby Jack cheese, shredded
- Dressing:
- 1/2 cup of mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup of sour cream
- 2.5 tablespoons of dry Ranch Mix
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the broccoli, cauliflower, red onion, green bell pepper, red sweet pepper, carrots, and sweet corn.
- Add the chopped bacon and shredded Colby Jack cheese to the vegetable mixture.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sour cream, and dry Ranch Mix to create the dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is well coated.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for a short time to allow the flavors to meld.
Notes
- For a lighter dressing, consider using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise.
- This salad can be made ahead of time; just add the dressing right before serving to keep the vegetables crisp.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: Bacon Ranch Chopped Salad, Salad, Bacon Ranch
Ingredients for Bacon Ranch Chopped Salad
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this delightful Bacon Ranch Chopped Salad. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Broccoli florets: Fresh and crunchy, they add a nice bite and vibrant color.
- Cauliflower: This mild vegetable complements the broccoli and adds a lovely texture.
- Red onion: A touch of sweetness and a pop of color, it enhances the salad’s flavor.
- Green bell pepper: Crisp and slightly bitter, it balances the richness of the bacon.
- Red sweet pepper: Sweet and juicy, it brings a burst of flavor and color.
- Carrots: Finely sliced, they add a hint of sweetness and crunch.
- Sweet corn: Whether canned or fresh, it adds a delightful sweetness to the mix.
- Bacon: Crispy and savory, it’s the star of the show, bringing that irresistible flavor.
- Colby Jack cheese: Creamy and melty, it adds richness and depth to the salad.
- Dressing: A mix of mayonnaise, sour cream, and dry Ranch Mix creates a creamy, tangy dressing that ties everything together.
For those looking to lighten things up, consider swapping out the mayonnaise for Greek yogurt. This salad can also be prepped ahead of time; just hold off on adding the dressing until you’re ready to serve. You’ll find the exact quantities for each ingredient at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!
How to Make Bacon Ranch Chopped Salad
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Start by washing all your fresh vegetables thoroughly. Then, chop the broccoli and cauliflower into small, bite-sized florets. I like to use a sharp knife for clean cuts. Next, dice the red onion, green bell pepper, and red sweet pepper. Don’t forget to finely slice the carrots! Finally, if you’re using fresh corn, cut it off the cob. Combine all these colorful veggies in a large bowl. The vibrant mix will make your Bacon Ranch Chopped Salad visually appealing!
Step 2: Add the Bacon and Cheese
Now it’s time to bring in the star ingredients! Take your crispy, cooked bacon and chop it into small pieces. Add the bacon to the bowl of vegetables, letting its savory goodness mingle with the fresh flavors. Next, sprinkle in the shredded Colby Jack cheese. The creamy cheese will melt slightly when mixed, adding a delightful richness to your salad. Trust me, this combination is simply irresistible!
Step 3: Make the Dressing
In a separate bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sour cream, and dry Ranch Mix. I love using a whisk for this; it helps create a smooth and creamy dressing. Make sure everything is well combined, as this will be the magic that ties your Bacon Ranch Chopped Salad together. If you prefer a lighter option, Greek yogurt works beautifully here too. The dressing should be tangy and rich, perfect for coating those fresh veggies!
Step 4: Combine Everything
Pour the creamy dressing over your vegetable, bacon, and cheese mixture. Using a large spoon, gently toss everything together until all the ingredients are well coated. This is where the flavors start to dance! Make sure every piece of vegetable gets a taste of that delicious dressing. The vibrant colors and textures will make your salad look like a work of art!
Step 5: Serve or Chill
Your Bacon Ranch Chopped Salad is ready to shine! You can serve it immediately for a fresh crunch, or let it chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes. Chilling allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste. Whether you serve it right away or let it sit, this salad is sure to be a hit!
Tips for Success
- Chop vegetables uniformly for even mixing and a pleasing presentation.
- Cook bacon until crispy for the best texture and flavor.
- Make the dressing ahead of time and store it separately to keep veggies crisp.
- Experiment with different cheeses like feta or cheddar for a unique twist.
- For added crunch, toss in some sunflower seeds or nuts before serving.
Equipment Needed
- Large mixing bowl: A big bowl is essential for combining all those vibrant ingredients.
- Sharp knife: A good knife makes chopping vegetables a breeze.
- Cutting board: Protect your countertops while prepping your fresh veggies.
- Whisk: Perfect for mixing the dressing smoothly.
- Large spoon: Ideal for tossing everything together without making a mess.
Variations
- For a protein boost, add grilled chicken or chickpeas to make it more filling.
- Swap out the Colby Jack cheese for feta or goat cheese for a tangy twist.
- Try adding diced avocado for a creamy texture and healthy fats.
- For a spicy kick, toss in some jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce in the dressing.
- Make it a low-carb option by replacing corn with diced zucchini or cucumber.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair your Bacon Ranch Chopped Salad with grilled chicken or shrimp for a complete meal.
- Serve it alongside crusty bread or garlic knots for a satisfying crunch.
- For drinks, a chilled lemonade or iced tea complements the flavors beautifully.
- Present the salad in a colorful bowl to enhance its vibrant appearance.
FAQs about Bacon Ranch Chopped Salad
Can I make Bacon Ranch Chopped Salad ahead of time?Absolutely! You can prepare the salad ingredients in advance. Just hold off on adding the dressing until you’re ready to serve. This keeps the veggies crisp and fresh!What can I substitute for the ranch dressing?If you’re looking for alternatives, Greek yogurt mixed with herbs can create a lighter dressing. You can also try a vinaigrette for a tangy twist on this Bacon Ranch Chopped Salad.Is this salad gluten-free?Yes! This Bacon Ranch Chopped Salad is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions. Just ensure your ranch mix is gluten-free as well.How long will leftovers last in the fridge?Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. However, the veggies may lose some crunch, so it’s best enjoyed fresh!Can I add more protein to this salad?Definitely! Grilled chicken, turkey, or even chickpeas can be added to make this Bacon Ranch Chopped Salad more filling and satisfying.
Final Thoughts
Creating this Bacon Ranch Chopped Salad is more than just a cooking task; it’s a joyful experience that brings the family together. The vibrant colors and delightful crunch make it a feast for the eyes and the palate. I love how it effortlessly combines fresh ingredients with the savory goodness of bacon and creamy dressing. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a weekend gathering, this salad is sure to impress. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your loved ones, and enjoy the deliciousness that this salad brings to your table. Trust me, it’s a flavor sensation you won’t want to miss!