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Keto “Potato” Salad with Bacon

By Dr. Eric Berg DC

12/06/2024

Keto “Potato” Salad with Bacon

keto-potato-salad-recipe

Total Time: 15 minutes

Serves: 6

Per serving: 503 calories, 6 g protein, 7.8 g carbohydrates, 50 g fat

Ingredients

Cauliflower salad

1½ lbs cauliflower, florets 

pinch of black pepper

pinch of sea salt

½ red onion, chopped

3 celery stalks, chopped 

5 bacon strips, cooked and chopped 


Dressing

1½ cup mayonnaise 

¾ Tbsp Dijon mustard

¾ Tbsp apple cider vinegar

pinch of sea salt

pinch of black pepper

Directions:

  1. In large pot, bring water to boil and add cauliflower. Cook for 8 to 10 minutes until tender. Drain and transfer to large bowl.

  2. Add pepper, salt, onion, and celery to cauliflower mixture, stirring until thoroughly blended.

  3. Mix mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, vinegar, salt, and pepper in separate bowl. 

  4. Add dressing and bacon bits to Cauliflower Salad and toss until well combined.

  5. Serve at room temperature or chill for an hour to allow flavors to meld.


Recipe tips:

  • Elevate this salad’s flavor and texture by adding fresh dill or dill pickles.

  • For added protein, incorporate hard-boiled eggs, diced chicken, or canned tuna.

  • Add lemon juice for a tangier dressing or stevia for a touch of sweetness.

  • Plain Greek yogurt or sour cream can be used as an alternative to mayonnaise.

  • Garlic powder or fresh minced garlic can be incorporated into the dressing for a more savory flavor profile.

 

This irresistibly creamy Keto “Potato” Salad recipe replaces traditional potatoes with tender cauliflower, making it an ideal keto-approved choice that won’t interfere with fat-burning. 


Each bite offers a delightful blend of smoky bacon, crunchy celery, and a zesty dressing, creating the perfect side dish. 


With a prep time of just 15 minutes, it’s an excellent option for a quick, crowd-pleasing accompaniment to a wide range of low-carb meals.


Why you’ll love this Keto “Potato” Salad with Bacon recipe


This Keto “Potato” Salad with Bacon dish is sure to become your new favorite cauliflower potato salad recipe as it offers a delicious low-carb alternative to carb-heavy classic potato salad.


Cauliflower, unlike potatoes with a high glycemic index (GI), is low in carbohydrates and helps maintain steady energy levels without causing significant blood sugar fluctuations.


Packed with seasonal vegetables, this salad truly shines in the spring and summer months when cauliflower and celery are at their freshest.


In addition to flavor, celery adds fiber and antioxidants to this dish, supporting digestion, while red onions bring a subtle sweetness and offer anti-inflammatory properties.


Meanwhile, apple cider vinegar in the dressing promotes gut health and helps balance insulin levels, making this salad a nutritious choice for anyone looking to support their overall well-being.


This has been verified by a study published in BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies, reporting that consuming apple cider vinegar positively affects fasting blood glucose and blood lipid levels.


Whether enjoyed at a summer BBQ or as part of a weeknight meal, this keto-friendly mock potato salad is a delicious way to remain in fat-burning mode.


Cauliflower

Benefits of cauliflower


Cauliflower is a versatile cruciferous vegetable known for its mild flavor and unique texture, which makes it a fantastic substitute for grains and starches.


"Packed with vitamins C and K, cauliflower is a nutrient powerhouse that supports immune health and bone strength," explains Dr. Berg.


Another notable benefit of cauliflower is its low carbohydrate content. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), 100 grams of raw cauliflower contains 4.9 grams of carbs and two grams of fiber.


Its high fiber content lowers the net carb count to just 2.9 grams, as fiber isn’t digested and won’t impact blood glucose levels.


In addition, cauliflower is a rich source of antioxidants, which help combat oxidative stress and lower inflammation, and its high water content keeps you nourished and hydrated. 


Cauliflower can be enjoyed raw, steamed, or roasted, making it a versatile ingredient for salads, and stir-fries, as well as an excellent low-carb substitute for rice.


Mini burgers

What to serve with Keto “Potato” Salad with Bacon


This salad pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes, including grilled meats and an assortment of roasted or sautéed vegetables, enhancing any meal with its refreshing flavors and textures.


Here are delicious low-carb options you can serve with this Keto Cauliflower “Potato” Salad.


Ketogenic Mini-Burgers

Experience the ultimate bite-sized delight with these Ketogenic Mini-Burgers. These delicious burgers feature succulent ground beef nestled between soft keto rolls and topped with melted cheese.


Each Mini-Burger is loaded with flavor, protein, and healthy fats, creating a satisfying contrast to the refreshing elements of this Cauliflower Mock Potato Salad. 


Keto Everything Lamb Chops

Get ready for a flavor explosion with these Keto Everything Lamb Chops. Juicy lamb is lightly seasoned with salt and pepper, then topped with a crunchy everything seasoning blend, adding a perfect finishing touch that elevates each bite.


Serve alongside this creamy Keto “Potato” Salad to create a memorable meal that’s sure to impress anyone at the table. 


Keto Bacon-Wrapped Meatloaf

Indulge in the savory goodness of Keto Bacon-Wrapped Meatloaf, where juicy ground beef meets a smoky bacon exterior for an irresistible combination.


Packed with protein and infused with aromatic garlic, onions, and fresh herbs, each slice is a comforting delight that perfectly complements this low-carb “Potato” Salad.


Dry rub ribs

Tender Keto Ribs with Dry Rub

Treat yourself to Tender Keto Ribs with Dry Rub, where succulent pork ribs are seasoned with a homemade dry rub and slow-cooked to perfection.


The smoky and spicy notes of the ribs create a satisfying pairing with this decadent faux potato salad, enhancing your dining experience with every bite.


Keto Pan-Seared Pork Chop with Chimichurri

Savor the luscious essence of this Keto Pan-Seared Pork Chop, beautifully seasoned and paired with a vibrant chimichurri sauce that adds an aromatic and herby kick.


Bursting with the richness of tender pork and the vibrant flavors of zesty chimichurri, this dish serves as an exceptional side that perfectly complements the Keto “Potato” Salad.


Keto Creamy Basil Sausage Casserole

Dive into this Keto Creamy Basil Sausage Casserole, where savory Italian sausage meets luscious cream cheese and aromatic basil pesto sauce for a truly irresistible dish.


This Italian-inspired dish perfectly complements the flavors of the Cauliflower “Potato” Salad, creating a balanced and satisfying meal.


Man opening fridge

Storing tips


Whether you have leftovers or want to make this recipe ahead of time, it's vital to store it properly to preserve its freshness and taste.  


For optimal freshness, store this salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. 


When preparing this recipe in advance, keep the dressing separate and mix it into the salad just before serving for the best flavor. 


If you have a larger batch that won’t be eaten within three days, you can freeze this Keto “Potato” Salad. Portion it into individual servings using airtight containers or freezer bags, and it will keep well for up to two months. 


Before enjoying, simply thaw the salad in the fridge overnight and give it a quick stir to restore its velvety texture.


Cauliflower potato salad

Final thoughts


Creamy yet light, this irresistible Keto “Potato” Salad with Bacon is the ultimate summer side dish that perfectly complements barbecues, picnics, and gatherings, ensuring every bite is a delightful experience.


With just 15 minutes of prep time, this keto-approved salad is easy to make and packed with health-promoting nutrients, such as vitamins C and K, antioxidants, and fiber.



FAQ


1. Can I have potato salad on keto?

No, traditional potato salad is high in carbs and not suitable for those following a ketogenic diet. 


However, this mock potato salad recipe uses cauliflower instead of potatoes, making it the ideal side dish for a Healthy Keto® diet.


2. How do I make potato salad on keto?

To create a keto-approved potato salad version, simply replace the potatoes with cauliflower and use a homemade dressing made from low-carb ingredients such as mayonnaise, sour cream, and Dijon mustard.


3. What is in Keto Potato Salad?

This Keto “Potato” Salad recipe features cauliflower, bacon, celery, and red onions, all tossed in a homemade dressing made from mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar.


4. What can I use instead of potatoes on keto?

Cauliflower, turnips, or radishes are excellent low-carb alternatives to potatoes in various dishes, as these ingredients can be mashed, roasted, or made into fries and chips.


5. Is bacon keto-friendly?

Yes, bacon is keto-friendly as it’s low in carbs and a rich source of health-promoting fats. However, it’s essential to select high-quality organic bacon without added sugars or other additives that could disrupt ketosis and fat-burning. 


6. How long can I store Keto “Potato” Salad with Bacon?

You can store this salad in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze it for as long as two months. To maintain the best texture and flavor, keep the dressing separate and add it just before serving.



Sources


  1. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8243436/ 

  2. https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html#/food-details/169986/