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    Home » Recipes » Salads

    by Traci · 04/28/2023

    Broccoli Bacon Grape Salad

    5 from 25 votes
    Total 15 minutes minutes
    Jump To Recipe

    This post may contain affiliate links. Please read our disclosure policy.

    Broccoli grape salad is the perfect combination of fresh broccoli, juicy red grapes, savory bacon, and salty blue cheese in a tangy, sweet dressing. It's a flavor explosion in every bite!

    dressing is poured over broccoli grape salad in glass mixing bowl
    Table of Contents hide
    1) Why you'll love this recipe
    2) Ingredients
    3) How to make broccoli grape salad
    4) Recipe Tips
    5) Recipe Variations
    6) Serving ideas
    7) More salads to love
    8) 📖 Recipe
    9) Broccoli Grape Salad Recipe

    Why you'll love this recipe

    • This salad is sweet, savory, crunchy, and creamy.
    • Broccoli salad without mayo is even more versatile.
    • Nutritious, satisfying, and crowd-pleasing.
    • Easy to make with simple ingredients.
    • Can be made ahead and tossed upon serving.
    • Adding a cooked protein makes it a complete meal.

    The combination of broccoli, grapes, bacon, blue cheese, walnuts, and sweet dressing makes this a unique and delicious salad for any occasion. Take it to the BBQ, family dinner, potluck, or picnic – this salad satisfies and nourishes in the most delicious way!

    Ingredients

    • fresh broccoli - Broccoli is the base of this salad and star of the show. It's flavorful, crunchy, and loaded with fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
    • bacon - Adds a savory and salty flavor, which complements the sweetness of the grapes and dressing.
    • grapes - These add juicy, refreshing, bursts of flavor and sweetness to broccoli salad, which also balances the salty and savory flavors nicely.
    • red onion - Adds a sharp and tangy flavor to the salad, which complements the other flavors of this salad.
    • blue cheese - This adds salty, sharp flavor and creaminess to the salad, which pairs nicely with the bitter and salty flavors.
    • walnuts - These add nutty flavor, crunchy texture, and are a source of healthy fats and protein.
    • extra virgin olive oil - Use this to make the dressing. It provides a healthy source of monounsaturated fats and has a rich, nutty flavor.
    • apple cider vinegar This makes the salad dressing tangy and slightly sweet.
    • maple syrup - Adds the perfect sweetness to the dressing, which balances the savory, salty, and bitter flavors of this salad.
    • Dijon mustard - This adds a sharpness to the dressing flavor and helps emulsify the oil and vinegar.
    • salt and pepper - Use this to season the dressing, to taste. Doing so will enhance the other flavors and bring everything together.
    broccoli grape salad ingredients labeled in glass bowls

    How to make broccoli grape salad

    This delicious salad is as easy as prepping a few ingredients, tossing in dressing, and serving. Enjoy these step-by-step instructions and get the full printable recipe below.

    Step 1. Prep the broccoli by rinsing, drying, and chopping into bite-sized pieces. Chop other ingredients as indicated. In a mixing bowl, combine broccoli, grapes, bacon, onions, blue cheese, and walnuts. Cover and refrigerate.

    fresh broccoli in glass mixing bowl
    broccoli grape salad in glass mixing bowl

    Step 2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon, salt, and pepper. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking rapidly to form a creamy emulsion. Cover and refrigerate, or pour over the salad.

    whisking dressing in glass mixing bowl
    dressing is poured over broccoli grape salad in glass mixing bowl

    Step 3. Toss everything together. Pro tip: If you mix with your hands, you can work the dressing into the crevices of the broccoli.

    broccoli grape salad is tossed with salad tongs in glass mixing bowl

    Recipe Tips

    • Although not required, the fresh broccoli can be blanched and cooled for a softer texture, if desired.
    • I prefer to leave grapes whole for this broccoli salad because it preserves their shape. However, you can slice them in half if desired.
    • Use seedless grapes to prevent any unwanted crunchy surprises.
    • I prefer to use a blue cheese wedge over the pre-crumbled variety because the texture is richer and creamier, yet still crumbles nicely for this salad. Use what's available, of course.
    • Save time and buy prepped ingredients, such as chopped broccoli, diced onions, chopped nuts, and pre-cooked bacon.
    • To make ahead, prep everything in advance. Store the salad and dressing separately until ready to serve.

    Recipe Variations

    • Add chopped apples to this salad for extra crunch and sweetness.
    • Substitute the blue cheese with feta or goat cheese.
    • Toast the walnuts for even more nutty flavor and crunchy texture.
    • Substitute the walnuts with other nuts, such as pecans, almonds, or pepitas.
    • Substitute apple cider vinegar with and equal amount of red wine vinegar or balsamic vinegar to vary the flavor.
    • This broccoli salad is made with a vinaigrette and doesn't use mayonnaise. Of course, you're welcome to substitute the oil for mayo for a more traditional dressing for this salad.

    Serving ideas

    Serve broccoli grape salad alongside TKG favorites, such as juicy broiled salmon, easy baked chicken legs, and grilled salmon. It also pairs well with roasted chicken, pan-seared steak, or pork.

    More salads to love

    If you love broccoli bacon salad, you'll surely enjoy this creamy pasta BLT salad recipe or shaved Brussels sprouts salad. Tortellini pesto pasta salad is another winner, especially during summer, just like easy creamy cucumber salad. If you favor a protein salad, this turkey salad recipe hits all the right notes!

    📖 Recipe

    broccoli grape salad in glass mixing bowl

    Broccoli Grape Salad Recipe

    Broccoli grape salad is the perfect combination of fresh broccoli, juicy red grapes, savory bacon, and salty blue cheese in a tangy, sweet dressing. It's a flavor explosion in every bite!
    Prevent your screen from going dark
    Prep TimePrep Time: 15 minutes mins
    Total timeTotal Time: 15 minutes mins
    Yield 7 1-cup servings
    Author Traci Antonovich
    5 from 25 votes
    Print Pin

    Ingredients 

    • 1 pound Fresh Broccoli about 6 cups
    • 2 cups Red Grapes
    • ½ cup Crumbled Bacon about 6 strips or 2 ounces
    • ½ small Red Onion ¼ cup diced
    • ¼ cup Crumbled Blue Cheese
    • ¼ cup Walnuts chopped
    • 3 tablespoons Apple Cider Vinegar
    • 1 tablespoon Maple Syrup
    • 2 teaspoons Dijon
    • ¼ teaspoon Sea Salt or to taste
    • ⅛ teaspoon Black Pepper or to taste
    • ¼ cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil

    Equipment

    • chef's knife
    • cutting board
    • measuring cups
    • mixing bowls
    • whisk
    • serving utensils

    Instructions

    • Wash the broccoli thoroughly and pat dry to remove excess moisture. Chop broccoli into bite-sized pieces.
    • In a mixing bowl, combine BROCCOLI, GRAPES, BACON, ONIONS, BLUE CHEESE, and WALNUTS. Cover and refrigerate.
    • In a mixing bowl, whisk together VINEGAR, MAPLE SYRUP, DIJON, SALT, and PEPPER. Slowly drizzle in the OLIVE OIL while whisking rapidly to form a creamy emulsion. Cover and refrigerate.
    • To serve, toss broccoli salad with dressing and enjoy!

    Final step

    Click stars to vote. Please visit 'Comments' below for reviews.

    5 from 25 votes

    Video

    Recipe Notes

    • Although not required, the fresh broccoli can be blanched and cooled for a softer texture, if desired.
    • I prefer to leave grapes whole for this broccoli salad because it preserves their shape. However, you can slice them in half if desired.
    • Use seedless grapes to prevent any unwanted crunchy surprises.
    • I prefer to use a blue cheese wedge over the pre-crumbled variety because the texture is richer and creamier, yet still crumbles nicely for this salad. Use what's available, of course.
    • Save time and buy prepped ingredients, such as chopped broccoli, diced onions, chopped nuts, and pre-cooked bacon.
    • To make ahead, prep everything in advance. Store the salad and dressing separately until ready to serve.
    Did you make this recipe? I'd love to see it!Follow @thekitchengirl on Instagram, snap a photo, and tag #thekitchengirl. This always makes my day!

    Nutrition

    Serving: 1cup | Calories: 238kcal | Carbohydrates: 15g | Protein: 6g | Fat: 18g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Cholesterol: 16mg | Sodium: 301mg | Potassium: 333mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 10g | Vitamin A: 389IU | Vitamin C: 48mg | Calcium: 63mg | Iron: 1mg
    Course Salad, Side Dish
    Cuisine American
    Diet Gluten Free
    Easy FREE recipes to your inbox weeklyJoin The Kitchen Girl community!
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    Comments

    1. Mamadawg GF says

      June 05, 2023 at 12:09 pm

      5 stars
      I just made this broccoli salad and WOW what a great combination of ingredients, it's a flavor explosion. They just compliment each other so well. I have to admit that I think I put just a little bit more bleu cheese in mine but not enough to overtake the other ingredients. (Cuz I love me some blue cheese!) 🙂 I absolutely love this salad and will be making it frequently this summer. Good job Kitchen Girl!!

      Reply
      • Traci says

        June 05, 2023 at 12:15 pm

        Yay!!! I'm so glad you went for it and love it as much as we do! I'm all for more BC lol because YUM! Thanks for sharing details of your experience 🙂 xoxo

    2. JayBee says

      May 06, 2023 at 7:22 am

      5 stars
      Wow! I never would have thought to put grapes and broccoli together, but it's delicious! The other ingredients make it even more interesting with flavor and texture. Excellent with grilled meats. Than you for sharing!

      Reply
      • Traci says

        June 05, 2023 at 12:17 pm

        You're so welcome and I'm glad you went for it!! Thanks for sharing your experience 🙂

    3. Jyoti says

      December 09, 2021 at 8:54 pm

      5 stars
      Very yum, we had some reservations with raw broccoli, but it came out so well! Everything was just perfect

      Reply
      • The Kitchen Girl says

        December 10, 2021 at 7:21 am

        Yayy! Yes, I totally understand the hesitation but it just works so nicely in this, doesn't it 🙂 Thanks for taking the time to leave feedback. So glad you enjoyed!

    4. jack says

      August 08, 2020 at 9:30 am

      5 stars
      I am loving this recipe, that dressing is amazing 🙂

      Reply
      • The Kitchen Girl says

        August 08, 2020 at 9:32 am

        Thanks so much, Jack Yes, the dressing really brings this broccoli salad together for a flavor party

    5. Jacqueline Meldrum says

      August 08, 2020 at 9:08 am

      5 stars
      It's so colourful and broccoli is so good in salads. Perfect for the summer.

      Reply
      • The Kitchen Girl says

        August 08, 2020 at 9:31 am

        Thanks, Jacqueline...all color credit goes to the produce

    6. Jeff says

      July 25, 2020 at 10:10 pm

      5 stars
      Just had this broccoli salad with smoked pork loin for dinner tonight and it was a home run. It's easy, loaded with flavor, and goes perfect with roasted or smoked meats.

      Reply
      • The Kitchen Girl says

        July 25, 2020 at 10:24 pm

        I'm so glad you love this broccoli salad as much as I do, JB You're right, it IS perfect with smoked meats YUMMM

    7. Pam Reimer says

      September 06, 2019 at 12:34 pm

      5 stars
      This beautiful and delicious salad is a regular at my house. It's super easy to prep the ingredients and just assemble whenever you are hungry. It also tastes great with a store bought strawberry vinaigrette dressing.

      Reply
      • Traci Antonovich says

        September 08, 2019 at 4:01 pm

        I'm SO glad to hear this, Pam! That dressing sounds amazing too 🙂 Thanks for taking the time to let me know...I appreciate you

    8. Mel says

      November 05, 2018 at 2:06 pm

      Broccoli and blue cheese work so well together! Can I come for lunch? I'd love your salad!

      Reply
      • Traci Antonovich says

        November 05, 2018 at 6:05 pm

        Haha thanks...grab a fork, Mel! 🙂

    9. Karyn says

      November 05, 2018 at 9:19 am

      5 stars
      What a delicious combo of ingredients. I especially love that you added broccoli..it's my favorite veg

      Reply
      • Traci Antonovich says

        November 05, 2018 at 9:40 am

        Thanks Karyn...right there with you on the broccoli love 🙂

    10. Elaine Benoit says

      November 05, 2018 at 8:57 am

      5 stars
      I love everything about this broccoli salad! Love all the ingredients you've put together and can't wait to make it!

      Reply
      • Traci Antonovich says

        November 05, 2018 at 9:40 am

        Thanks Elaine! Hope you love it! 😉

    11. Veena says

      November 05, 2018 at 8:51 am

      5 stars
      Salads are my all time favorite. Love the healthy options like walnuts, broccoli, grapes and off course also love Bacon and Cheese. I am already craving for it. Love the combination of the Salad dressing too.

      Reply
      • Traci Antonovich says

        November 05, 2018 at 9:40 am

        Thanks Veena! Love hearing that 🙂

    12. Cliona Keane says

      November 05, 2018 at 8:12 am

      5 stars
      This looks like it has so much crunch and texture to it! A delicious salad!

      Reply
      • Traci Antonovich says

        November 05, 2018 at 9:41 am

        Thanks Cliona! Yes, all the crunch and texture is here 🙂

    13. Wajeeha Nadeem says

      April 01, 2018 at 2:28 am

      5 stars
      I love all the textures going on in this salad. I'm actually not really into healthy eating, but I absolutely love broccoli. I love the addition of red grapes, they make the salad look gorgeous too. I'll be trying this salad very soon. Do you think slivered almonds in place of the walnuts would be a good addition? Thanks! 🙂

      Reply
      • Traci Antonovich says

        April 01, 2018 at 5:02 pm

        Thanks so much Wajeeha! Yep, I think slivered almonds would be excellent in this salad, and they'd hold up well too (since they're thicker than sliced almonds). Hope you get to try it out...and LOVE it 🙂

    14. Elizabeth says

      April 01, 2018 at 12:35 am

      5 stars
      What a wonderful variety of textures and flavours in this salad! I'll have to try it for myself soon!

      Reply
      • Traci Antonovich says

        April 01, 2018 at 5:01 pm

        Thanks Elizabeth...hope you do get to try it! 🙂

    15. Sally says

      March 31, 2018 at 11:54 pm

      5 stars
      What a fabulous combination of ingredients. Trying this on my OH - I think he'll be surprised.

      Reply
      • Traci Antonovich says

        April 01, 2018 at 5:01 pm

        Yay thanks Sally! Hope he loves it 🙂

    16. jillian says

      March 31, 2018 at 10:28 pm

      5 stars
      I love, love salads and blue cheese is a definite fav. addition too!

      Reply
      • Traci Antonovich says

        April 01, 2018 at 4:52 pm

        Yay thanks Jillian! I'm pretty crazy about blue cheese too! 🙂

    17. Sara Lehman says

      March 31, 2018 at 5:34 pm

      5 stars
      This looks like a tasty salad! Can't wait to try it!

      Reply
      • Traci Antonovich says

        April 01, 2018 at 4:50 pm

        Yay Sara! Hope you love it! 🙂

    18. Veena Azmanov says

      March 26, 2018 at 11:14 am

      5 stars
      Wow this salad looks very easy and delicious! I like that one of the ingredients is Broccoli. Because I love broccoli. I definitely want to try this salad! Thanks for the great recipe!

      Reply
      • Traci Antonovich says

        March 27, 2018 at 6:56 am

        Thanks Veena, I'm with you on the broccoli love! Hope you get to try this one out! 🙂

    19. Rae says

      March 26, 2018 at 11:00 am

      5 stars
      You've hit a home run with this salad, it'll be absolutely perfect on a warm day when it's too hot to cook.

      Reply
      • Traci Antonovich says

        March 27, 2018 at 6:56 am

        Thanks Rae...bring on those warm days and all the salads 🙂

    20. Leslie says

      March 26, 2018 at 10:53 am

      5 stars
      I love the flavors here...smoky, salty, sweet, savory...so much going on in this salad. The colors are very appetizing, too!

      Reply
      • Traci Antonovich says

        March 27, 2018 at 6:55 am

        Thanks Leslie...you're spot on about those flavors! One of my most favorite salads for sure 🙂

    21. Ginny says

      March 26, 2018 at 10:13 am

      5 stars
      Love all those grapes and broccoli in that salad. Those little bits of walnut sound perfect too!

      Reply
      • Traci Antonovich says

        March 27, 2018 at 6:54 am

        Thanks so much Ginny! Yeah, this salad's all about that texture...and I am crazy for walnuts too! 🙂

    22. Shashi says

      March 26, 2018 at 10:07 am

      5 stars
      YES - YES - the planets most definitely align with this combo of bitter, savory, salty, and delightfully sweet! What a delicious combo of flavors AND textures!!

      Reply
      • Traci Antonovich says

        March 27, 2018 at 6:53 am

        Thanks Shashi! I love your enthusiasm about this recipe! I feel the same way 🙂

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