If you are searching for a vibrant, crunchy, and absolutely delicious salad that brings together the best of fresh veggies and a creamy dressing, you’ve found the perfect match with this Broccoli Cauliflower Salad Recipe. This dish bursts with colors and textures, combining crisp broccoli and cauliflower florets with savory bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and nutty sunflower seeds, all tossed in a tangy-sweet dressing. It’s an easy-to-make, no-cook salad that wakes up your taste buds and makes for a fantastic side or light meal, guaranteed to become a family favorite in no time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Broccoli Cauliflower Salad Recipe is thoughtfully chosen to contribute vibrant flavors, satisfying textures, and beautiful visual appeal. From fresh vegetables to the creamy dressing components, the combination is simple yet essential to achieving that perfect balance.
- 3 cups fresh broccoli florets: Provides crunch and vibrant green color packed with nutrients.
- 3 cups fresh cauliflower florets: Adds a mild, slightly nutty flavor and contrasting white color.
- 1/2 cup red onion (finely chopped): Brings a subtle sharpness and a pop of purple hue to the salad.
- 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon: Offers smoky, savory depth and a crispy texture.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Introduces a creamy, tangy richness to every bite.
- 1/2 cup sunflower seeds: Adds a delightful crunch with a nutty undertone.
- 1 cup mayonnaise: Combines all flavors with a creamy, smooth dressing base.
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar: Lends a refreshing tanginess that lifts the salad.
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar: Balances the acidity with a touch of sweetness.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential seasoning to enhance all the flavors.
How to Make Broccoli Cauliflower Salad Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Fresh Vegetables
Start by washing your broccoli and cauliflower florets thoroughly, then pat them dry to keep the salad crisp. Finely chop the red onion to ensure its flavor distributes evenly without overpowering the dish. Combining these fresh vegetables creates the crunchy foundation of this salad, full of health benefits and vibrant textures.
Step 2: Combine the Salad Ingredients
In a large bowl, toss together the broccoli, cauliflower, chopped red onion, cooked bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, and sunflower seeds. Each ingredient adds a unique chew or crunch, crafting a complex and satisfying bite every time.
Step 3: Mix the Dressing
In a separate small bowl, whisk the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, granulated sugar, salt, and freshly ground black pepper until smooth. This perfectly balanced dressing is key to elevating the salad, giving it a creamy texture with just the right tang and sweetness.
Step 4: Combine and Chill
Pour the dressing over the mixed vegetables and gently toss until every bite is evenly coated with luscious creaminess. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least one hour. This chilling step allows all the flavors to marry beautifully, making your Broccoli Cauliflower Salad Recipe even more irresistible.
How to Serve Broccoli Cauliflower Salad Recipe
Garnishes
To add an extra touch of freshness and texture, try sprinkling some fresh chopped parsley or chives just before serving. A few additional sunflower seeds scattered on top can enhance the nutty crunch, while a light drizzle of extra apple cider vinegar brings brightness to the palate.
Side Dishes
This Broccoli Cauliflower Salad Recipe pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, baked fish, or even as a vibrant side to your favorite barbecue spread. The creamy and tangy salad cuts through richer, smoky flavors beautifully, making it an ideal companion for summer gatherings or weeknight dinners.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress your guests? Serve this salad in individual glass jars or pretty bowls to highlight its colorful layers. You can also create salad-filled lettuce cups for a fun, handheld option or even use it as a topping on toasted baguette slices for an irresistible appetizer.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your Broccoli Cauliflower Salad Recipe, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to three days, making it perfect for quick lunches or easy snacks.
Freezing
This salad is best enjoyed fresh and does not freeze well. The mayonnaise-based dressing and fresh vegetables lose their texture and can become watery once thawed, so freezing is not recommended.
Reheating
Since the Broccoli Cauliflower Salad Recipe is designed to be served chilled, reheating is unnecessary. Simply stir well after refrigeration to redistribute any dressing that may have settled, then serve cold and fresh.
FAQs
Can I make this salad vegan?
Absolutely! To make a vegan version of this Broccoli Cauliflower Salad Recipe, substitute the bacon with plant-based bacon alternatives or smoked tempeh, and use vegan mayonnaise instead of traditional mayo. The rest of the ingredients remain just as delicious.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, this salad is naturally gluten-free as it contains no wheat or gluten-containing ingredients, making it a safe and tasty choice for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
Can I substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise?
Yes, swapping half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt is a great way to lighten the salad while adding a slight tang and extra protein. This variation maintains the creamy texture while reducing fat content.
What variations work well with this salad?
Adding dried cranberries or raisins can bring a lovely sweetness that balances the savory elements beautifully. You can also toss in chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for an even richer crunch.
How long does the salad keep its best texture?
The salad tastes best within 24 hours of preparation. After this, the vegetables may begin to soften, and the dressing may separate, so consuming it fresh ensures the best flavor and crunch.
Final Thoughts
This Broccoli Cauliflower Salad Recipe is a delightful, colorful, and easy-to-make dish that brings joy to any table with its harmonious blend of crunchy vegetables and creamy, tangy dressing. Whether you’re serving it as a side at a family meal or bringing it to a potluck, this salad will brighten up the experience and have everyone asking for your secret. Give it a try—you may just find your new favorite salad!
Print
Broccoli Cauliflower Salad Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes (plus at least 1 hour chilling time)
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A vibrant and crunchy Broccoli Cauliflower Salad featuring fresh broccoli and cauliflower florets mixed with red onion, crispy bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, and sunflower seeds, all tossed in a tangy and creamy dressing. Perfect for a refreshing, low-carb, and gluten-free side dish that requires no cooking and is ready in minutes.
Ingredients
Vegetables and Mix-ins
- 3 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 3 cups fresh cauliflower florets
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sunflower seeds
Dressing
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Combine the Vegetables and Mix-ins: In a large bowl, mix together the broccoli florets, cauliflower florets, finely chopped red onion, crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, and sunflower seeds until evenly distributed.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, granulated sugar, salt, and black pepper until the dressing is smooth and well combined.
- Toss the Salad: Pour the dressing over the vegetable mixture and toss thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated with the creamy dressing.
- Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld. Serve the salad chilled for best taste and texture.
Notes
- Substitute Greek yogurt for half of the mayonnaise to create a lighter version of the dressing.
- Add dried cranberries or raisins for a subtle sweetness that complements the crunchy vegetables.
- For a vegetarian option, omit the bacon or replace it with plant-based bacon alternatives.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
