Bacon Ranch Chopped Salad is a delightful mix of nutritious vegetables and savory bacon, all tossed together with a creamy ranch dressing. It’s the perfect dish anytime you need a quick and satisfying meal. Whether you’re prepping for a family dinner or looking for a hearty side at your next barbecue, this salad fits the bill. What makes it truly special is how it balances fresh greens with rich, crispy bacon and the classic tang of ranch dressing, ensuring that each bite is bursting with flavor.

What Makes This Recipe Special

There are plenty of reasons you’ll want to add this Bacon Ranch Chopped Salad to your recipe collection. First off, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some veggies, making it a kid-approved dish that even picky eaters will love. It comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights or a potluck gathering. Plus, who can resist the combination of crunchy veggies, crispy bacon, and creamy cheese, all drizzled with ranch dressing?

“This salad is a hit every time! The kids ask for second helpings, and I love that it’s so easy to throw together.” – A happy home cook.

Your Easy Cooking Guide

Making Bacon Ranch Chopped Salad is a breeze! Start by prepping all your ingredients and chop the veggies and bacon. Then, you’ll simply toss everything together in a large bowl, coat it with ranch dressing, and serve. It really is that simple! Here’s what you’ll need.

Gather Your Ingredients

To create this refreshing salad, gather the following ingredients:

3-4 cups broccoli florets, finely chopped
3-4 cups cauliflower, finely chopped
1/2 cup red onion, diced
1/2 cup green bell pepper, diced
1/2 cup red sweet pepper, diced
1/2 cup carrots, finely sliced and diced
1/2 cup sweet corn (canned or fresh)
10 slices of bacon, cooked, drained, and chopped
1 cup Colby Jack cheese, shredded

Feel free to substitute any of the veggies according to your preferences or what you have on hand.

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Step-by-Step Directions

In a large mixing bowl, combine the finely chopped broccoli and cauliflower.
Add the diced red onion, green bell pepper, red sweet pepper, finely sliced and diced carrots, and sweet corn to the bowl.
Toss in the chopped bacon and shredded Colby Jack cheese.
Gently mix all the ingredients until they are well combined.
Drizzle your favorite ranch dressing over the mixture.
Toss again to coat everything evenly.
Serve immediately or refrigerate for a short time to meld the flavors.

Perfect Pairings for Bacon Ranch Chopped Salad

This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or burgers. For a complete meal, consider serving it next to some crusty bread or roll. It also works well with a side of fruit salad for a refreshing contrast.

Best Way to Store Bacon Ranch Chopped Salad

If you have leftovers (a rarity, but still possible!), store your Bacon Ranch Chopped Salad in an airtight container in the fridge. This salad is best enjoyed fresh; however, it can last up to 2-3 days in the refrigerator. Just be mindful not to add the ranch dressing until you’re ready to eat to keep the greens crisp.

Expert Advice

To elevate your salad-making game, consider doing a quick roast of the vegetables before tossing them into the mix. Roasting enhances their flavors and adds a delightful depth. Also, feel free to adjust the amount of bacon and cheese to your liking—less cheese for a lighter version, or more bacon for a heartier dish.

Creative Twists

Want to shake things up? Try adding some chopped avocado for creaminess or swap the ranch dressing for a zesty vinaigrette for a lighter twist. You can also incorporate seasonal vegetables to keep everything fresh and exciting.

FAQ

What is the prep time for Bacon Ranch Chopped Salad?

The prep time is about 15-20 minutes, making it a quick and easy option for any meal.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the salad without the dressing and store it in the fridge for up to a day. Just add the dressing right before serving.

How can I make this salad healthier?

You can reduce the amount of bacon or use turkey bacon, and opt for low-fat ranch dressing to cut down on calories while still enjoying great flavor.

Bacon Ranch Chopped Salad combines freshness with a touch of indulgence, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Enjoy making this delightfully classic dish, and watch your family come back for more!

Bacon Ranch Chopped Salad

Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Generally Healthy

Description

A delightful mix of nutritious vegetables and savory bacon, all tossed with creamy ranch dressing, perfect for quick meals or potlucks.

Ingredients

Scale

3–4 cups broccoli florets, finely chopped
3–4 cups cauliflower, finely chopped
1/2 cup red onion, diced
1/2 cup green bell pepper, diced
1/2 cup red sweet pepper, diced
1/2 cup carrots, finely sliced and diced
1/2 cup sweet corn (canned or fresh)
10 slices of bacon, cooked, drained, and chopped
1 cup Colby Jack cheese, shredded

Instructions

In a large mixing bowl, combine the finely chopped broccoli and cauliflower.
Add the diced red onion, green bell pepper, red sweet pepper, finely sliced and diced carrots, and sweet corn to the bowl.
Toss in the chopped bacon and shredded Colby Jack cheese.
Gently mix all the ingredients until they are well combined.
Drizzle your favorite ranch dressing over the mixture.
Toss again to coat everything evenly.
Serve immediately or refrigerate for a short time to meld the flavors.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. Add the ranch dressing just before serving to keep the greens crisp.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Salad
Method: Mixing
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 320
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 500mg
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 11g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 12g
Cholesterol: 45mg

Keywords: salad, bacon, ranch, quick meal, healthy