There’s something supremely satisfying about a salad that’s not only bursting with color but also with flavor and texture, and this Broccoli Cauliflower Salad Recipe absolutely delivers on all fronts. Imagine crisp raw broccoli and cauliflower tossed with smoky bacon, crunchy sunflower seeds, sharp cheddar, and sweet-tangy dressing — every bite is bright, creamy, and delicious. This is a staple in my kitchen for potlucks, BBQs, and impromptu weeknight dinners because it takes almost no time to throw together and always disappears fast!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Broccoli Cauliflower Salad Recipe keeps things delightfully straightforward — it’s all about fresh, everyday ingredients coming together in perfect harmony! Each ingredient offers a little something special, whether it’s a pop of crunch, a depth of savoriness, or a hit of creamy goodness. Here’s the inside scoop on what goes into this crowd-pleaser:
- Broccoli florets: Choose the freshest you can find for the ultimate crunch and bright green color, cut into bite-size pieces.
- Cauliflower florets: The perfect partner to broccoli, it adds a mild flavor and prettiness to the mix.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: The sharpness of cheddar ties everything together and adds a creamy richness.
- Red onion: Finely chopped for a hint of bite and beautiful color; a little goes a long way!
- Cooked and crumbled bacon: Gives that irresistible smoky, salty crunch that truly makes this salad sing.
- Sunflower seeds or chopped almonds: Extra crunch and a slight nutty layer — use whichever you love (or both!).
- Mayonnaise: The creamy base for the dressing; for a lighter touch, use half Greek yogurt.
- Apple cider vinegar: Brings brightness and a gentle tang that keeps everything lively.
- Honey: Just enough natural sweetness to balance the vinegar and round out the flavors.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning — don’t skip the tasting step to get it just right for you!
How to Make Broccoli Cauliflower Salad Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Vegetables
Start by washing your broccoli and cauliflower florets thoroughly, then pat them dry with a clean towel. Chop each into bite-sized pieces. This not only ensures every bite is perfectly manageable, but it also helps all those delicious flavors mingle together, making this Broccoli Cauliflower Salad Recipe extra tasty.
Step 2: Mix the Salad Base
In your largest mixing bowl, combine the broccoli, cauliflower, shredded cheddar cheese, finely chopped red onion, cooked and crumbled bacon, and sunflower seeds or almonds. Give it all a gentle toss so every scoop is packed with variety and crunch. This is when the salad really starts to look inviting — and it’s already halfway done!
Step 3: Whisk the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning as you like — everyone’s sweet, salty, and tangy preferences are a bit different, after all. This dressing is what brings all the flavors together in the Broccoli Cauliflower Salad Recipe.
Step 4: Combine and Chill
Pour the dressing over the salad base, making sure everything is well coated. Give the whole thing a good toss so the dressing finds every nook and cranny. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This little rest is essential: it allows those flavors to meld beautifully, transforming your salad from good to absolutely irresistible.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Give the salad another quick toss before serving to redistribute any dressing that might have settled. Then, dish it up and watch it disappear! If you want to get fancy, garnish with a touch more bacon or a sprinkling of seeds just before serving. This is the secret to wowing every guest who tries your Broccoli Cauliflower Salad Recipe.
How to Serve Broccoli Cauliflower Salad Recipe
Garnishes
To really make this salad pop, finish with an extra handful of crisp bacon crumbles or a scattering of golden, toasted sunflower seeds on top. A sprinkle of finely chopped fresh parsley also adds color and a fresh flavor boost — you eat with your eyes first, after all!
Side Dishes
This Broccoli Cauliflower Salad Recipe is so versatile it goes with just about everything. I love serving it next to barbecue fare like grilled chicken or burgers, or alongside oven-roasted salmon for a lighter meal. It also makes a fabulous addition to any picnic spread or buffet table.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to wow at your next gathering, scoop the salad into vibrant lettuce cups for a hand-held appetizer, or pile it high in a colorful serving bowl with extra toppings like dried cranberries or extra nuts. For a fun lunch, try serving it over a bed of mixed greens or tucked inside a wrap with turkey or chicken — this salad is all about options!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This salad stores beautifully. Cover any leftovers tightly and pop them in the fridge; they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. In fact, the flavors deepen and mellow as it sits, making it even more delicious the next day!
Freezing
I don’t recommend freezing this salad, since the fresh veggies tend to get watery and lose their wonderful crunch after thawing. You want to savor that original snappy texture and vibrant flavor you get from fresh ingredients in the Broccoli Cauliflower Salad Recipe.
Reheating
There’s no need to reheat this salad as it’s meant to be enjoyed cold or at cool room temperature. If you do take it straight from the fridge, let it sit out for 10-15 minutes before serving so the flavors really shine.
FAQs
Can I substitute the mayonnaise with something lighter?
Absolutely! For a lighter take on this Broccoli Cauliflower Salad Recipe, you can swap out half (or even all) of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. It still keeps things creamy but adds a lovely tang and a protein boost.
What can I add for a little extra sweetness?
If you’re craving a hint of sweetness, toss in a handful of raisins or dried cranberries. They give the salad little pops of chewy, sweet flavor that pair beautifully with the tangy dressing and salty bacon.
Can I make this Broccoli Cauliflower Salad Recipe vegan?
Yes, you can! Simply substitute the bacon for smoky roasted chickpeas or coconut bacon, use plant-based mayo and cheese, and swap honey with maple syrup. You’ll still get loads of flavor and all the wonderful textures.
How far in advance can I make this salad?
This recipe is best made up to a day ahead, which is perfect for entertaining or meal prep. Just wait to add any garnishes (like extra bacon or seeds) until just before serving for maximum crunch.
Is this salad keto-friendly?
It absolutely can be! The Broccoli Cauliflower Salad Recipe is naturally low in carbs, especially if you skip the honey, or replace it with your favorite keto-friendly sweetener. It’s an ideal side for anyone following a low-carb or keto lifestyle.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a no-fuss dish that’s as nutritious as it is delicious, this Broccoli Cauliflower Salad Recipe deserves a spot on your table. It’s the kind of salad people go back for seconds (and thirds!), and it fits just about any gathering. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own — let me know how it goes!
Print
Broccoli Cauliflower Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Broccoli Cauliflower Salad recipe is a delightful mix of fresh veggies, creamy dressing, and crunchy toppings, making it a perfect side dish for any occasion. The combination of flavors and textures will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Ingredients
Salad:
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 2 cups fresh cauliflower florets
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/3 cup red onion (finely chopped)
- 1/3 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
- 1/2 cup sunflower seeds or chopped almonds
Dressing:
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the broccoli, cauliflower, cheddar cheese, red onion, bacon, and sunflower seeds.
- Make Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Toss Salad: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is well coated.
- Chill and Serve: Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Stir again before serving.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute half of the mayo with Greek yogurt.
- You can make this salad up to 1 day in advance.
- Add raisins or dried cranberries for a touch of sweetness if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
