Broccoli Cauliflower Salad

Broccoli Cauliflower Salad Recipe

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This Broccoli Cauliflower Salad is a colorful, crunchy, and delicious addition to any meal. Packed with fresh vegetables, crunchy almonds, savory bacon, and a tangy-sweet dressing, it’s the perfect side dish for family gatherings, potlucks, or even as a light lunch. Let’s dive into this easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing recipe!

Introduction

Broccoli Cauliflower Salad has long been a favorite for its perfect balance of textures and flavors. Combining the mild, crunchy taste of broccoli and cauliflower with the savory richness of bacon and cheddar cheese, it’s a dish that feels indulgent while also delivering a dose of healthy vegetables. The creamy dressing, with just a hint of sweetness, ties it all together. This versatile salad can be served year-round and is a great make-ahead option, as the flavors only improve as it sits.

Ingredients

To make this satisfying Broccoli Cauliflower Salad, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Dressing

  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons sugar
  • 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar

Salad

  • 3 cups broccoli florets, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 3 cups cauliflower florets, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2/3 cup sliced almonds
  • 1/3 cup finely chopped red onion
  • 1 cup finely cubed cheddar cheese
  • 10 slices crispy cooked bacon, coarsely chopped

This recipe offers flexibility—feel free to add more or less of each ingredient based on your personal preferences or dietary needs.

How to Make Broccoli Cauliflower Salad

Here’s how to make this delicious salad step-by-step:

  1. Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sugar, and apple cider or red wine vinegar. This combination creates a tangy-sweet dressing that perfectly complements the salad.
  2. Combine the Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, add the broccoli and cauliflower florets, sliced almonds, chopped red onion, cubed cheddar, and crispy bacon pieces.
  3. Dress the Salad: Pour the dressing over the top of the salad ingredients and stir gently to coat everything evenly. Make sure all the vegetables and toppings are well covered in the creamy dressing.
  4. Season and Serve: Taste the salad and add kosher salt and fresh black pepper as desired. Serve immediately for a fresh, crunchy texture, or refrigerate for 20-30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Helpful Tips

  • Extra Crunch: For maximum crunch, serve the salad immediately after dressing it. If preparing ahead, store the dressing separately and mix just before serving.
  • Customize the Ingredients: Add sunflower seeds, raisins, or dried cranberries for extra texture and sweetness.
  • Make it Lighter: Substitute Greek yogurt for half the mayonnaise to reduce calories while keeping it creamy.

Cooking Tips

Here are a few additional tips to perfect your Broccoli Cauliflower Salad:

  • Cutting the Vegetables: Try to cut the broccoli and cauliflower florets into similar bite-sized pieces so they are easy to eat and evenly coated in dressing.
  • Using Fresh Ingredients: Fresh broccoli and cauliflower give the best texture, so avoid using frozen varieties for this salad.
  • Equipment Tip: A large salad bowl is ideal for mixing and serving this salad.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Broccoli Cauliflower Salad alongside grilled meats, sandwiches, or as a light lunch. It pairs wonderfully with BBQ dishes, roasted chicken, or even a hearty casserole. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for added color and presentation appeal.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a look at the nutritional highlights of Broccoli Cauliflower Salad:

  • High in Fiber: Thanks to the broccoli and cauliflower, this salad provides a good amount of dietary fiber.
  • Protein-Rich: With almonds, cheese, and bacon, it has a satisfying level of protein.
  • Vitamins and Minerals: Broccoli and cauliflower are excellent sources of vitamins C, K, and folate.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

  • Calories: 280
  • Carbohydrates: 9g
  • Protein: 9g
  • Fat: 24g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g
  • Monounsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Cholesterol: 35mg
  • Sodium: 400mg
  • Potassium: 300mg
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Vitamin A: 8%
  • Vitamin C: 40%
  • Calcium: 15%
  • Iron: 6%

This salad is a great mix of indulgence and nutrition, making it a favorite among health-conscious eaters and flavor lovers alike.

Storage and Leftovers

Refrigerate: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

For best results, keep the dressing separate if you plan to make this salad in advance. Add the dressing only when you’re ready to serve to maintain the vegetables’ crunchiness.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this salad vegan?
Yes! Substitute the mayonnaise with vegan mayo, omit the bacon or use a plant-based bacon alternative, and replace the cheddar with vegan cheese.

What can I use instead of almonds?
If you prefer a nut-free version, sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds add a nice crunch without nuts.

Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, but for the best texture, store the dressing separately and mix it in just before serving.

If you enjoyed this salad, try some of these other refreshing and hearty options:

Conclusion

Broccoli Cauliflower Salad is a delicious and versatile dish that brings fresh flavors, crunchy textures, and a creamy dressing to your table. It’s perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or even a quick family dinner side. We hope you enjoy this recipe, and don’t hesitate to add your own twists. Happy cooking!

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