Delicious Broccoli and Cauliflower Salad Recipe
Okay, so you know how sometimes you’re craving something fresh, something crunchy, but you also know that you need to eat something. What do you think about a little creamy comfort?What is your favorite broccoli and cauliflower salad recipe?Is that what you mean? Is coleslaw’s cooler cousin? Is it addictive? My grandma made something similar for summer picnics, although hers was a bit heavier. On the mayo (bless her heart! This version is lighter, brighter, and just as crowd-pleasing.
What is Broccoli and Cauliflower Salad?
Think of it as a chopped salad meets a creamy side dish. It’s essentially a combination of fresh broccoli and cauliflower florets, often with other crunchy veggies like red onion or carrots, tossed in a tangy-sweet dressing. The dressing is usually mayonnaise-based, but I like to lighten mine up with a bit of Greek yogurt. It gives it a nice tang and keeps it from feeling too heavy. This salad is perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or even just a quick and easy lunch. It travels well and tastes even better after it’s had a chance to chill in the fridge for a bit.
Why you’ll love this recipe?
What do I love the most about this book?What is a good broccoli and cauliflower salad recipe?What makes this app so versatile is that you can customize it to your liking.
- Flavor: The combination of the earthy broccoli and cauliflower with the sweet and tangy dressing is just perfection. The addition of the red onion gives it a little bit of bite, and the cranberries add a pop of sweetness that I absolutely adore.
- Simplicity:Is this recipe really easy? What is the best way to throw together a meal in less than 20 minutes? What are some of the best side dishes to have when you’re short on time?
- Cost-Broccoli and cauliflower are relatively inexpensive, especially when they’re in season. What are some pantry staples that you already have on hand?
- Versatility:As I mentioned before, this salad is incredibly versatile. Can you add different veggies, nuts, or dried fruits to change up the flavor profile? I’ve even added grilled chicken or chickpeas to make it a complete meal.
What’s your favorite summer salad? What is different about theWhat is a good broccoli and cauliflower salad recipe?Is it good to eat a salad?
How do you make a delicious broccoli and cauliflower salad?
Quick Overview
What is the recipe for a salad dressing? You chop your veggies, whisk together your dressing, and toss everything together. How do I chop broccoli and cauliflower into bite-sized pieces? Don’t be afraid to experiment with dressings! I like to adjust the amount of sugar and vinegar to get just right. Is it really that easy to make a recipe like this?delicious broccoli and cauliflower salad recipe.
Ingredients Notes:
For the Salad:
Broccoli Flore Fresh is best! Make sure they’re bright green and firm.
Cauliflower Flor Just like the broccoli, look for firm, white florets.
Red Onion:Adds a nice bite. Can you soak it in cold water for a few minutes to mellow out the flavor?
Dried Cranberries:What are some of the best raisins for sweetness and chewiness?
Sunflower Seeds:What are some good pepitas to eat?
Bacon:I always cook extra bacon for breakfast, so I have it ready to go for this salad! Can you use store bought bacon bits?
For the Dressing:
Mayonnaise:I prefer full-fat for the best flavor and texture.
Greek Yogurt:What is the secret ingredient in dressing?
Apple Cider Vinegar: HowWhat are some good substitutes for white vinegar or lemon juice?
Granulated Sugar:What is the best way to balance out the acidity of vinegar?
Dijon Mustard: Adds a little bit of flavor and helps to emulsify the dressing.
What are the steps to
Step 1: Chop the Veggies
Wash and dry broccoli and cauliflower. Then, chop them into small bite-sized pieces. The smaller the better in my opinion!
Step 2: Prepare the Other Ingredients
How do you slice a red onion into small pieces? If you are using bacon, cook it until it’s crispy, then crumble it.
Step 3: Whisk Together the Dressing
In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, sugar, and Dijon mustard. Set aside. How do you make mustard until smooth?
Step 4: Combine Everything
In a large bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, cauliflower, red onion, dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, and salt. Set aside. What are seeds, and bacon (if using)? How do you serve salad dressing?
Step 5: Chill
Cover salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. What is the best way to get the flavors to meld together? I always do this when I can, but even if you only wait 10 minutes it will still be great. Is it very tasty?
Step 6: Serve
Serve chilled and enjoy! You can garnish with extra sunflower seeds or chopped bacon, if desired.
What to Serve It With
This delicious broccoli and cauliflower salad recipe goes well with just about anything! Here are a few ideas:
For Barbecues: Burgers, hot dogs, grilled chicken, ribs – you name it!
For Potlucks: Sandwiches, wraps, pasta salads, fruit salads
As a Side Dish: Roasted chicken, pork chops, fish
For a Quick Lunch: On its own, with a side of crackers, or topped with grilled chicken or chickpeas
My family loves it alongside pulled pork sandwiches. The sweetness of the cranberries and the crunch of the sunflower seeds are the perfect complement to the savory pork.
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Delicious Broccoli and Cauliflower Salad Recipe
Here are a few of my top tips for making the best delicious broccoli and cauliflower salad recipe:
Chop the veggies small: This makes the salad easier to eat and ensures that every bite is packed with flavor.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with the dressing: Adjust the amount of sugar and vinegar to your liking. You can also add other spices, such as garlic powder or onion powder.
Soak the red onion in cold water: This will mellow out the flavor and make it less pungent.
Toast the sunflower seeds: This will bring out their nutty flavor.
Let the salad chill for at least 30 minutes before serving: This allows the flavors to meld together and makes the salad even more delicious.
Add some cheese: Sometimes I’ll throw in some shredded cheddar cheese, or feta!
I learned the hard way that not chilling it long enough can leave the dressing a little…loose. It’s much better when the flavors have had time to get to know each other.
Storing and Reheating Tips
This salad is best stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 3 days. I don’t recommend freezing this salad, as the vegetables will become mushy when thawed.
Room Temperature: Not recommended for longer than 2 hours due to the mayonnaise.
Refrigerator Storage: Up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Freezer Instructions: Not recommended.
If you’re making this salad ahead of time, I recommend waiting to add the dressing until just before serving. This will help to keep the vegetables from becoming soggy. I usually premix my ingredients, and that helps a lot!
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
This delicious broccoli and cauliflower salad recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and I know you’ll love it as much as my family does. It’s easy to make, customizable, and perfect for any occasion. If you’re looking for more easy and delicious side dish recipes, be sure to check out my other salads and slaws. Happy cooking!
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Delicious Broccoli and Cauliflower Salad Recipe
IngredientsÂ
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups broccoli florets fresh, chopped
- 2 cups cauliflower florets fresh, chopped
- 0.5 cup red onion thinly sliced
- 0.5 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 0.5 cup almonds sliced, toasted
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice freshly squeezed
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Bring a pot of water to a boil and blanch the broccoli and cauliflower for 2-3 minutes until just tender. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the blanched broccoli and cauliflower, red onion, cherry tomatoes, and almonds.
- Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Serve immediately or refrigerate for a more chilled taste.
Notes
If you try this recipe, please leave a comment and rating below. I love to hear from you and always appreciate your feedback!
