I know not everyone is with me, but I LOVE broccoli! Hands down, one of my favorite vegetables! Well, I like cooked broccoli. Raw has never done it for me.

And, my love for these mini green trees is all thanks to my college friend, Ben. I don't have any specific memories, but I must have tried broccoli a few times growing up. Cut to my 20-year-old self...one night Ben recommended ordering stir fry at a local college restaurant. He loved the orange chicken with broccoli (there may have been other veggies too.) So, I took a chance. He was right! It was delicious!

If I had never met Ben, how many more years would it have been before I dared to try broccoli again?!? Luckily, I never need to find out. Broccoli became a beloved staple in my diet.

And broccoli is the star of this healthy dish! Plus, bacon makes everything better! I chose to lightly cook (blanch) the broccoli, but you could go with raw or even boil it longer for a softer texture.

If you do have...issues...with broccoli, try slicing it up and cooking! This will help your body when digesting.

Ready, set, yum.

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Ingredients for Summer Broccoli & Bacon Salad

• Broccoli
• Bacon
• Bell Peppers
• Corn
• Olive Oil
• Dressing: I used bacon grease, oil, orange juice, lemon juice, and brown sugar to make a light citrus dressing.
• ‍Optional: cashews

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What to Serve with Broccoli Salad

Just add a protein for a complete meal!- Chicken, steak, beef, ham, turkey, pork, tofu, vegan "meat" substitutes...Also makes a terrific side dish for a picnic!

          - Keto-Friendly, Low-Carb Chicken Parmesan

          - Stay-at-Home Orange Chicken

          - Asian-Style Meatloaf

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