Summer means lots of outdoor gatherings, picnics, and cookouts. Salads are a perfect side dish, and are an essential part of every outdoor meal. I recently saw a recipe for a broccoli/apple salad on a popular cooking site, made it, and was appalled to think that somebody actually thought it tasted good. The main ingredients were yummy; it was the dressing (which was just plain yogurt) was awful and did not complement the ingredients. I made my own dressing, and present the following Bacon, Broccoli & Apple Salad.


Once I made changes, this salad actually became edible (delicious, in fact) and everyone loved it. It will definitely be one that I make over and over this summer. It goes well with any grilled meats, is perfect for a potluck, and is one that travels well for a picnic. You can use any favorite type of apple you like, red or green; just make sure your apples are fresh and crisp.

12 Servings


1/2 pound thick sliced bacon, chopped

2 large apples, cored and cut into small chunks
3 cups fresh broccoli, cut into small florets
2 to 3 tablespoons chopped red onion
1/4 cup Craisins
1/4 cup golden raisins

Dressing:
1 1/2 cups plain non-fat Greek Yogurt
1/3 cup sugar
1/3 cup milk
2 tablespoons white wine vinegar

1. Cook the bacon until crisp; drain and mix with the apples, broccoli, red onion, craisins, and golden raisins.
2. Place the mixture into a serving bowl.
3. Whisk together the yogurt, sugar, milk and white wine vinegar (or blend in a bullet blender); pour over the apple/broccoli mixture and stir until all ingredients are coated.
4. Cover and refrigerate until serving.

Amount Per Serving
Calories 128 Calories from Fat 34
Percent Total Calories From: Fat 26% Protein 19% Carb. 55%

Nutrient Amount per Serving
Total Fat 4 g
Saturated Fat 1 g
Cholesterol 8 mg
Sodium 127 mg
Total Carbohydrate 17 g
Dietary Fiber 1 g
Sugars 6 g
Protein 6 g

Vitamin A 8% Vitamin C 42% Calcium 0% Iron 3%