Barb’s Broccoli-Cauliflower Salad Recipe

Introduction

This Broccoli Cauliflower Salad is a simple and delicious side dish that comes together in minutes. It’s perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or a quick family dinner. For another easy, crowd-pleasing recipe, try this Ground Beef and Rice Casserole | Easy Dinner Idea Recipe. Both dishes are straightforward to prepare and deliver fantastic flavor with minimal effort.

Ingredients

This creamy, crunchy Broccoli Cauliflower Salad combines fresh vegetables with a tangy dressing and savory mix-ins for the perfect side dish.

• 3 cups broccoli florets
• 3 cups cauliflower florets
• 1 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 tablespoon prepared mustard
• 1 teaspoon prepared horseradish
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup chopped red onion
• 1/2 cup chopped bacon

Timing

Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	0 minutes
Total Time	15 minutes

Context: This Broccoli Cauliflower Salad comes together about 20% faster than similar recipes since it requires no cooking.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare the Vegetables

Chop 1 head of broccoli and 1 head of cauliflower into small, bite-sized florets. For best texture, make sure pieces are uniform in size so they marinate evenly in the dressing.

Step 2 — Make the Dressing

In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 cup mayonnaise, ¼ cup sugar, and 2 tablespoons white vinegar until smooth. For a lighter option, substitute Greek yogurt for half the mayonnaise.

Step 3 — Combine Salad Ingredients

Place the chopped broccoli and cauliflower in a large mixing bowl. Add ½ cup chopped red onion, ½ cup cooked and crumbled bacon, and ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese.

Step 4 — Toss with Dressing

Pour the dressing over the broccoli cauliflower salad ingredients. Use a large spoon or spatula to gently toss until all components are evenly coated.

Step 5 — Chill Before Serving

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. This resting time allows the flavors to meld and the vegetables to slightly soften while remaining crisp.

Step 6 — Add Final Toppings

Just before serving, sprinkle ¼ cup sunflower seeds or sliced almonds over the top for added crunch. This prevents the nuts from becoming soggy during refrigeration.

Step 7 — Check Seasoning and Serve

Taste the broccoli cauliflower salad and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. For optimal freshness, serve within 24 hours of preparation.

Nutritional Information

Calories	180
Protein	6g
Carbohydrates	12g
Fat	14g
Fiber	4g
Sodium	280mg

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size.

Healthier Alternatives

• Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise — Lighter tang and added protein.
• Sunflower seeds instead of bacon bits — Crunchy, nutty, and plant-based.
• Apple cider vinegar instead of sugar — Bright acidity with fewer carbs.
• Stevia or monk fruit instead of honey — Sweetness without added sugar.
• Avocado oil mayo for dairy-free — Creamy texture, no dairy.
• Reduced-sodium soy sauce or coconut aminos — Umami flavor with less salt.
• Chia seeds instead of croutons — Gluten-free crunch and fiber.
• Grilled chicken or chickpeas for added protein — Hearty, satisfying boost.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair this Broccoli Cauliflower Salad with grilled chicken or fish for a light, protein-packed lunch.
• Serve it as a refreshing side dish at summer barbecues and potlucks.
• Bring this salad to picnics or pack it for a healthy work lunch; it travels well.
• Enjoy it as a standalone, low-carb meal for a quick and nutritious dinner.
• Serve it alongside sandwiches or burgers for a crunchy, flavorful contrast.
• Plate it in a large, shallow bowl to showcase the vibrant colors of the vegetables.

This versatile Broccoli Cauliflower Salad is perfect for any occasion, from casual family dinners to festive gatherings.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using raw broccoli and cauliflower without blanching. Fix: Briefly blanch the florets to soften their texture and make them more digestible while retaining a pleasant crunch.
• Mistake: Drowning the salad in a heavy, overly sweet dressing. Fix: Use a balanced dressing and toss it in just before serving to keep the vegetables crisp and prevent sogginess.
• Mistake: Adding bacon or other mix-ins while they are still warm. Fix: Always let cooked ingredients like bacon cool completely to avoid wilting the fresh vegetables.
• Mistake: Cutting the florets into pieces that are too large. Fix: Chop them into small, bite-sized pieces for a better eating experience and more even flavor distribution.
• Mistake: Skipping the salting step for the vegetables. Fix: Lightly salt the chopped broccoli and cauliflower and let them sit for 10-15 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
• Mistake: Not toasting nuts like almonds or sunflower seeds. Fix: Toasting nuts and seeds enhances their flavor and adds a superior crunch to your Broccoli Cauliflower Salad.
• Mistake: Assembling the entire salad too far in advance. Fix: Prepare components separately and combine them within an hour of serving for the best texture.
• Mistake: Using a bland, single-note cheese like pre-shredded cheddar. Fix: Incorporate a sharper, more flavorful cheese like aged white cheddar or crumbled feta for a more complex taste.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store your Broccoli Cauliflower Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezer: Freezing is not recommended for this salad as the fresh vegetables will become limp and watery upon thawing.
• Reheat: This Broccoli Cauliflower Salad is designed to be served cold. If any ingredients were served warm initially, ensure they are cooled to below 40°F before combining and refrigerating.

Always use clean utensils to serve the salad to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth.

Conclusion

We hope you love this easy and delicious Broccoli Cauliflower Salad as much as we do! Give it a try and let us know what you think in the comments. For another great broccoli dish, check out our Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini and Broccoli Recipe. Don’t forget to subscribe for more quick and tasty recipes!

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FAQs

Can I make this Broccoli Cauliflower Salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this Broccoli Cauliflower Salad a day in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator to let the flavors meld together. It often tastes even better the next day.

What dressing works best for this salad?

A creamy dressing like a simple mayonnaise or Greek yogurt base works wonderfully. It coats the broccoli and cauliflower florets evenly, making the salad rich and flavorful. You can easily customize it with vinegar or lemon juice for tang.

How do I keep the broccoli and cauliflower crunchy?

To keep your Broccoli Cauliflower Salad crisp, avoid overcooking the vegetables if you blanch them. Ensure they are completely dry after washing. Toss the salad with the dressing just before serving to maintain the best texture.