Name: Broccoli Cauliflower Salad Recipe That Will Be the Star of Your Table
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups broccoli florets (chopped into bite-sized pieces); 2 cups cauliflower florets (also chopped small); ½ red onion (thinly sliced); 1 cup mayonnaise; 2 tablespoons white vinegar; 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (or honey if you want a natural sweetener); ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese; ½ cup cooked bacon bits; ¼ cup sunflower seeds (or sliced almonds if you prefer)

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Honestly, if you haven’t tried a Broccoli cauliflower salad recipe yet, you’re in for a treat. This salad is the precise blend of crunchy vegetables, creamy dressing, and simply the right pop of taste. Moreover, whether or not you’re web hosting a family barbecue or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe fits the invoice. Additionally, it’s so simple to throw collectively—it’s almost foolproof. In reality, it’s the type of dish that’s certain to electrify with minimal attempt.

Why This Broccoli Cauliflower Salad Is So Good

Let’s be real—some salads just don’t hit the spot, right? But this one? It’s got everything going for it:

Crunchy texture from fresh broccoli and cauliflower.
Tangy and creamy dressing that brings it all together.
Loads of flavor thanks to add-ins like crispy bacon, cheddar cheese, and sunflower seeds.
Make-ahead friendly, so it’s perfect for meal prep or potlucks.

broccoli cauliflower salad with dressing, cheese, and fresh vegetables.

Broccoli and cauliflower salad: Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this show-stopper of a salad:

Veggies

2 cups broccoli florets (chopped into bite-sized pieces)
2 cups cauliflower florets (also chopped small)
½ red onion (thinly sliced)

Dressing

1 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons white vinegar
2 tablespoons granulated sugar (or honey if you want a natural sweetener)

Add-ins

½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup cooked bacon bits
¼ cup sunflower seeds (or sliced almonds if you prefer)

Step-By-Step: How to Make Broccoli Cauliflower Salad

You don’t need to be a chef for this one—promise.

1. Prep the Veggies

Wash and chop your broccoli and cauliflower into small florets. The smaller, the better—it helps the dressing coat everything evenly. Toss them into a large mixing bowl with the sliced red onion.

2. Mix the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the mayo, vinegar, and sugar. It should be smooth, creamy, and just a little tangy. Taste and adjust the sweetness if needed.

3. Combine Everything

Pour the dressing over the veggies and give it a terrific toss. Don’t be shy—make certain each little floret is covered in that creamy goodness.

4. Add the Toppings

Sprinkle in the cheddar cheese, bacon bits, and sunflower seeds. Toss everything again gently, so the toppings are evenly distributed.

Pouring creamy dressing onto a bowl ofingredient salad.

5. Chill Before Serving

Pop the salad into the refrigerator for at the least an hour. Trust me, it tastes way higher once it’s chilled and the flavors have had a chance to combination.

Pro Tips for the Best Salad

Use fresh veggies: Frozen broccoli and cauliflower won’t give you that same crunch.
Don’t skip the chilling: This step makes all the difference in flavor.
Customize the toppings: Not a fan of bacon? Swap it for diced ham. Want more crunch? Add extra nuts or seeds.

Close-up of broccoli cauliflower salad in a clear bowl with dressing and vegetables.

Why Broccoli Cauliflower Salad Works for Any Occasion

Here’s the thing: this salad is crazy versatile. It works for:

Family dinners: It’s a great side dish for grilled chicken or steak.
Potlucks: Everyone will ask you for the recipe—guaranteed.
Meal prep: Make a big batch and enjoy it all week long.

Fun Variations to Try

If you like to switch things up, here are some ideas:

Mediterranean Style: Add cherry tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese. For a heartier Mediterranean-inspired dish, check out our Dense Bean Salad.
Sweet and Crunchy: Toss in dried cranberries and candied pecans. Pair this variation with our Carrot and Chickpea Salad for a colorful, healthy meal.
Southwest Twist: Add black beans, corn, and a sprinkle of chili powder to the dressing. Looking for more bold flavors? Try our Mexican Chicken Salad for another crowd-pleasing option.

How to Make This Salad Kid-Friendly

If you’re like me, getting kids to eat broccoli and cauliflower can feel like a full-on negotiation. However, this salad might just change the game. The creamy dressing and tasty add-ins like bacon and cheese make it way more appealing. Additionally, for picky eaters, consider chopping the veggies extra small and easing up on the red onion. In fact, you can even toss in some raisins or diced apples for a touch of sweetness—they’ll never see it coming! Moreover, these simple tweaks can make the salad a hit with the little ones.

Can You Make This Broccoli Cauliflower Salad Recipe Vegan?

You guess! To make this salad vegan, surely swap out a few components. For instance, use vegan mayo in the dressing and skip the bacon or replacement it with coconut bacon (sure, that’s a aspect!). Moreover, dietary yeast can add a tacky flavor if you’re leaving out the cheddar. In fact, with these tweaks, you’ve got a plant-primarily based version that’s simply as delicious. Additionally, it’s a extraordinary choice for those trying to enjoy a meat-unfastened meal without sacrificing flavor.

What Makes This Salad Stand Out?

Unlike traditional leafy salads, this broccoli cauliflower salad recipe keeps its crunch even after being dressed. That’s a huge win, especially if you’re serving it at a party or keeping leftovers for the week. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free and packed with nutrients like fiber, Vitamin C, and antioxidants—so it’s not just tasty, it’s good for you too.

Can I Use Other Veggies in This Recipe?

One of the best things about this broccoli cauliflower salad recipe is its flexibility. You can easily toss in whatever veggies you have on hand. For instance, shredded carrots, chopped bell peppers, or even snap peas would be great additions. In fact, this salad is like a blank canvas—feel free to get creative and make it your own! Moreover, it’s a great way to use up any extra veggies in your fridge.

How to Serve Broccoli Cauliflower Salad

If you’re looking to impress, serve this salad in a clear glass bowl so everyone can admire those colorful layers. Moreover, it’s perfect as a side dish for summer cookouts, Thanksgiving dinners, or even a quick lunch at work. Additionally, you can pair it with grilled chicken, fish, or even burgers for a balanced meal that’s full of flavor and crunch.

Why This Recipe Is Perfect for Meal Prep

This broccoli cauliflower salad recipe isn’t just tasty—it’s a meal prep champion. You can chop all the veggies and mix the dressing ahead of time. However, make sure to store them separately and toss everything together when you’re ready to eat. Moreover, it’s the kind of dish that tastes even better the next day. In fact, it will make your week much easier and more enjoyable. Additionally, this recipe is versatile and can be adjusted based on what you have in your fridge.

FAQs About Broccoli Cauliflower Salad

What is the mix between broccoli and cauliflower?

The mix between broccoli and cauliflower is a combination of two cruciferous vegetables that are closely related. They both have similar textures and a mild, slightly nutty flavor, which makes them a perfect pairing in salads. Broccoli brings a vibrant green color and slightly earthy taste, while cauliflower adds a creamy white contrast and a subtle sweetness. Together, they create a balanced base that works well with tangy dressings and crunchy toppings.

What is the healthiest way to eat broccoli and cauliflower?

The healthiest way to enjoy broccoli and cauliflower is to eat them raw or lightly cooked. Raw veggies retain the most nutrients, making them ideal for a salad like the broccoli cauliflower salad recipe. If you prefer them cooked, steaming or blanching them preserves their vitamins and antioxidants better than boiling or roasting. Pair them with healthy fats, like olive oil in a dressing, to help your body absorb fat-soluble nutrients like Vitamin K.

Can you eat broccoli raw in a salad?

Yes, you can! Raw broccoli adds a crisp texture and peppery taste to salads. It holds up well to creamy dressings without getting soggy. Just chop it into bite-sized pieces for the best flavor.

Why do you blanch broccoli for salad?

Blanching is non-compulsory however allows enhance texture and color. It makes the broccoli slightly tender whilst retaining its crunch and shiny inexperienced coloration, making the salad extra attractive. If raw broccoli feels too hard or sour, blanching softens the chunk even as maintaining it clean.

Final Thoughts

If you’re seeking out a salad that’s smooth to make and constantly gets rave critiques, this broccoli cauliflower salad is the way to go. It’s were given all of the crunch, creaminess, and flavor you can ever need. Moreover, you could tweak it to fit your taste or something’s for your refrigerator.

So, next time you’re at the store, grab a few clean broccoli and cauliflower, and give this recipe a shot. In fact, I promise, it’ll end up a go-to in your kitchen. Additionally, it’s a dish that’s positive to electrify each time!

Broccoli Cauliflower Salad Recipe That Will Be the Star of Your Table

Print Recipe

This salad is the perfect mix of crunchy veggies, creamy dressing, and just the right pop of flavor.

Author: Amélie
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Category: lunch
Cuisine: American