Healthy eating is about moderation! Two strips of bacon are all you need for a little indulgence that goes a long way flavor-wise. Buy the best quality bacon you can, nitrate-free if possible--it'll have tons of flavor and really punch up this healthy take on a classic side dish.
Directions for: Lightened-Up Creamy Broccoli Salad
Ingredients
2 strips low-sodium bacon
cup ice cubes
medium red onion, thinly sliced
cup buttermilk
cup reduced-fat sour cream
tsp finely grated lemon zest
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
6 cups broccoli florets (about 1 lb), cut into bite-size pieces
cup golden raisins
2 Tbsp salted roasted sunflower seeds
Directions
1. Combine the ice cubes, onions and 1 cup water in a small bowl. Let the onions soak for 10 minutes while preparing the rest of the salad, then drain and pat dry.
2. Cook the bacon in a small nonstick skillet over medium-low heat until crispy, about 8 minutes. Transfer to a paper-towel-lined plate to drain, reserving 1 teaspoon drippings for the dressing. Finely chop the bacon strips and reserve.
3. Whisk the buttermilk, sour cream, lemon zest and juice, reserved bacon drippings, 3/4 teaspoon salt and pepper to taste in a large bowl. Add the broccoli, onions and golden raisins to the dressing. Toss well, cover and chill for at least 1 hour and up to 4 hours.
4. Before serving, toss well and season with additional salt and pepper. Transfer to a serving dish and top with the chopped bacon and sunflower seeds.
Source and Credits
Courtesy of Food Network Kitchen.
Copyright 2012 Television Food Network, G.P. All rights reserved.
See more: Salad, Gluten-Free, Healthy, Low-Carb, Vegetables