Broccoli Cauliflower Salad – A Crunchy, Creamy, and Easy Side Dish
This Broccoli Cauliflower Salad is a delicious, crunchy, and creamy dish packed with fresh vegetables, crispy bacon, shredded cheese, and a tangy dressing. It’s the perfect make-ahead salad for BBQs, potlucks, or weeknight meals. With a combination of sweet, savory, and crunchy textures, this salad is both satisfying and refreshing.
Equipment
- ✔ Large mixing bowl
- ✔ Cutting board
- ✔️ Sharp knife
- ✔ Measuring cups and spoons
- ✔️ Whisk (for the dressing)
- ✔️ Serving spoon
Ingredients
- For the Salad:
- ✔️ 3 cups fresh broccoli florets chopped into bite-sized pieces
- ✔️ 3 cups fresh cauliflower florets chopped into bite-sized pieces
- ✔️ 6 slices crispy bacon cooked and crumbled
- ✔️ ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ✔️ ¼ cup chopped red onion
- ✔️ ¼ cup sunflower seeds or chopped almonds for extra crunch
- For the Dressing:
- ✔️ ¾ cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt for a lighter option
- ✔️ 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar or white vinegar
- ✔️ 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- ✔️ ½ teaspoon salt
- ✔️ ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- 1️⃣ Chop the broccoli and cauliflower into small, bite-sized florets.
- 2️⃣ Dice the red onion and cook the bacon until crispy, then crumble it into small pieces.
- 3️⃣ Shred the cheddar cheese and set all ingredients aside.
- Step 2: Make the Dressing
- 1️⃣ In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
- 2️⃣ Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Step 3: Assemble the Salad
- 1️⃣ In a large mixing bowl, combine broccoli, cauliflower, bacon, shredded cheese, red onion, and sunflower seeds.
- 2️⃣ Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is evenly coated.
- Step 4: Chill and Serve
- 1️⃣ Cover the salad and refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- 2️⃣ Serve chilled and enjoy!
Notes
✔️ Make it healthier – Swap Greek yogurt for mayo and use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon.
✔️ Add more crunch – Try adding chopped almonds, pecans, or pumpkin seeds.
✔️ Make it ahead – This salad stores well for up to 3 days in the fridge.
✔️ For a sweeter twist – Add ½ cup of dried cranberries.
✔️ Add more crunch – Try adding chopped almonds, pecans, or pumpkin seeds.
✔️ Make it ahead – This salad stores well for up to 3 days in the fridge.
✔️ For a sweeter twist – Add ½ cup of dried cranberries.