Cauliflower Broccoli Salad Recipe
If you are craving a vibrant, crunchy salad that packs a punch of freshness and flavor, this Cauliflower Broccoli Salad Recipe is exactly what you need. It combines crisp florets of cauliflower and broccoli with sharp cheddar, smoky bacon, and nutty sunflower seeds all brought together by a creamy, tangy dressing. Whether you’re looking for a refreshing side for a picnic, a potluck, or just a wholesome snack, this salad is a delightful way to enjoy vegetables in a totally satisfying and colorful way.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients for this salad are simple yet essential, creating a perfect balance of texture, taste, and color. Each component plays a role from the crunchy veggies to the creamy dressing and savory toppings, making every bite exciting.
- Small head cauliflower, chopped into small florets: Adds a crisp, fresh base with a mild flavor that pairs beautifully with everything else.
- Small head broccoli, chopped into small florets: Brings a bright green color and a slightly earthy crunch that complements the cauliflower.
- ½ red onion, finely diced: Provides a subtle bit of sharpness to balance the creaminess of the dressing.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Adds a rich, cheesy depth that enhances flavor complexity.
- ½ cup cooked and crumbled bacon: Introduces smoky, salty notes and a satisfying crunch.
- ½ cup sunflower seeds: Bring nuttiness and extra texture for an unexpected, delicious twist.
- ¾ cup mayonnaise: Creates the creamy base that binds the salad flavors together smoothly.
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar: Adds a tangy brightness that wakes up the palate.
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar: Balances acidity with a touch of sweetness.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential seasoning to elevate and unify the flavors.
How to Make Cauliflower Broccoli Salad Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables and Mix the Salad
Start by chopping the cauliflower and broccoli heads into small, bite-sized florets. Finely dice the red onion so its flavor is noticeable but not overpowering. Place all these chopped vegetables into a large mixing bowl, then add the shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and sunflower seeds. This mixture creates a colorful and inviting medley filled with different textures just waiting for the dressing.
Step 2: Whisk the Dressing
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This dressing is the heart of the Cauliflower Broccoli Salad Recipe, providing tangy, sweet, and rich notes that make each bite irresistible.
Step 3: Combine and Chill
Pour the dressing over the vegetable and bacon mixture, tossing everything gently to ensure each bite is evenly coated. Once combined, season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper according to your taste. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld and the salad chill perfectly before serving.
How to Serve Cauliflower Broccoli Salad Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra special touch, consider sprinkling the salad with a few additional sunflower seeds or a handful of dried cranberries just before serving. The cranberries add a delicate sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the smoky bacon and tangy dressing.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs incredibly well with grilled chicken, roast pork, or even as a cool contrast to spicy barbecue ribs. It also works beautifully alongside sandwiches or as a fresh addition to your summer cookout spread.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to make your presentation stand out? Serve this salad in hollowed-out mini bell peppers or cherry tomatoes for delightful mini bites. You can also layer it in clear glass jars for an attractive picnic or potluck display that shows off all the colorful ingredients.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Cauliflower Broccoli Salad Recipe keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container. The flavors tend to deepen as it sits, making leftovers just as enjoyable, if not more so, than the fresh version.
Freezing
Freezing is not recommended for this salad because the raw vegetables and creamy dressing will separate and become watery when thawed, compromising the texture and flavor that make this dish so delightful.
Reheating
No reheating is required since this is a refreshing cold salad. Simply take it out of the fridge, give it a quick toss to redistribute the dressing, and enjoy it chilled for the best experience.
FAQs
Can I substitute the bacon with a vegetarian option?
Absolutely! You can swap the bacon for smoked tempeh or crispy roasted chickpeas to keep the smoky crunch without meat.
Is there a low-fat alternative to mayonnaise in this recipe?
Yes, replacing half or all of the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt creates a lighter dressing that still offers creaminess and tang, perfect for a healthier twist.
How far in advance can I make the salad?
This salad is best made a few hours ahead to let the flavors come together but can be prepared up to one day in advance and kept refrigerated.
Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
Definitely! Chopped celery, shredded carrots, or even diced bell peppers work well to add more crunch and color.
Is this salad gluten-free and keto-friendly?
Yes, the Cauliflower Broccoli Salad Recipe is naturally gluten-free and low-carb, making it an excellent choice for keto and gluten-free diets.
Final Thoughts
This Cauliflower Broccoli Salad Recipe is simply a joy to make and enjoy. With its bright colors, lively texture, and amazing flavor balance, it’s guaranteed to become one of your go-to salads. Whether for a casual lunch, a family gathering, or a festive potluck, dive in and give this recipe a try—you’re going to love every crunchy, creamy bite.
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Cauliflower Broccoli Salad Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Cauliflower Broccoli Salad is a fresh and crunchy American classic that combines chopped cauliflower and broccoli florets with a creamy, tangy dressing. Enhanced with sharp cheddar cheese, savory bacon, and crunchy sunflower seeds, it offers a delightful mix of textures and flavors. Perfect as a keto-friendly side dish, this no-cook salad comes together quickly and is best served chilled after allowing the flavors to meld.
Ingredients
Vegetables and Mix-ins
- 1 small head cauliflower, chopped into small florets
- 1 small head broccoli, chopped into small florets
- ½ red onion, finely diced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup cooked and crumbled bacon
- ½ cup sunflower seeds
Dressing
- ¾ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add chopped cauliflower, broccoli florets, finely diced red onion, shredded cheddar cheese, cooked and crumbled bacon, and sunflower seeds. Mix gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Prepare Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and well blended to create the salad dressing.
- Coat Salad with Dressing: Pour the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients in the large bowl. Toss thoroughly to ensure every piece is evenly coated with the creamy dressing.
- Season to Taste: Add salt and black pepper according to your preference. Mix again gently to distribute the seasoning evenly throughout the salad.
- Chill Before Serving: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Serve: Once chilled, toss lightly again and serve the salad cold as a refreshing side dish.
Notes
- For a lighter alternative, substitute half of the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt to reduce fat content without sacrificing creaminess.
- Add dried cranberries for a subtle sweetness that contrasts nicely with the savory bacon and cheese.
- Enhance crunch by tossing in chopped almonds, which also add a nutty flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
