Looking to add a colorful and tasty salad to your busy week? The Bacon Ranch Chopped Salad is here to save the day! With its crunchy veggies and a mouthwatering ranch flavor, this salad is sure to please everyone at your table. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients and can be prepared in no time!
This Bacon Ranch Chopped Salad is a symphony of crisp textures and bold flavors. Imagine biting into fresh broccoli and cauliflower, paired with the rich savoriness of bacon and the creamy kick of cheese, all brought together by a zesty ranch dressing. It’s hearty enough to serve as a main dish but light enough to enjoy any time of the year. What makes it special is the perfect balance of fresh veggies and savory elements, making it not just a salad, but a celebration of flavors.
State the Benefits
Here are some fantastic reasons to make this vibrant dish for your table:
- Quick to prepare: This salad comes together in just minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknight dinners.
- Great for meal prep: Easily pack leftovers for lunch or dinner throughout the week without losing freshness.
- Simple ingredients: You probably have most of these tasty ingredients already in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ready in under 30 minutes
- Uses easy-to-find ingredients
- Ideal for a crowd or family meals
- Deliciously satisfying and full of flavor
Ingredients for Bacon Ranch Chopped Salad
- 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
Step-by-Step Instructions for Bacon Ranch Chopped Salad
- Chop all the vegetables into bite-sized pieces and place them in a large mixing bowl.
- Add the chopped bacon and shredded cheese to the bowl.
- Drizzle the ranch dressing over the salad and gently toss everything together until well coated.
- Serve immediately, or refrigerate for about 30 minutes to chill before serving.
Tips for Success
- Fresh is best: Use fresh vegetables for a crunchier salad.
- Make it creamy: Adjust the amount of ranch dressing to suit your taste.
- Bacon crispy: Ensure your bacon is crispy for the best flavor and texture.
Substitutions & Variations of Bacon Ranch Chopped Salad
To Make It Healthier: Swap out regular bacon for turkey bacon or use a plant-based alternative. You could also replace ranch dressing with a yogurt-based dressing for a lighter option.
Variations: Add sliced almonds for extra crunch, or mix in some avocado for creaminess. Crumbled feta or goat cheese can also provide a nice twist on flavor!
Storage Instructions for Bacon Ranch Chopped Salad
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Just give it a gentle stir before serving again.
Freezer: This salad doesn’t freeze well due to the fresh vegetables. It’s best enjoyed fresh!
Make-Ahead: Chop all vegetables a day ahead and store them in the fridge. Mix in the bacon and dressing just before serving to keep everything fresh.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) of Bacon Ranch Chopped Salad
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the veggies a day in advance. Just add the bacon and dressing before serving.
What dressing works best?
Ranch is classic, but you can also try a vinaigrette or creamy avocado dressing for a different flavor.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, this salad is naturally gluten-free!
Final Toughts
This Bacon Ranch Chopped Salad is perfect for anyone looking for a flavorful side dish or a light main meal. With its vibrant colors and delicious taste, it’s bound to become a staple in your home! Why not give it a try, and let us know how you liked it? Leave a comment and a star rating below!
Print
Bacon Ranch Chopped Salad
A vibrant salad packed with crunchy veggies, savory bacon, and creamy ranch dressing, perfect for a quick meal.
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
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
Instructions
- Chop all the vegetables into bite-sized pieces and place them in a large mixing bowl.
- Add the chopped bacon and shredded cheese to the bowl.
- Drizzle the ranch dressing over the salad and gently toss everything together until well coated.
- Serve immediately, or refrigerate for about 30 minutes to chill before serving.
Notes
Use fresh vegetables for a crunchier salad. Adjust the amount of ranch dressing to taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixed
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten-Free