Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Broccoli Cauliflower Salad is a crunchy, refreshing side dish packed with vegetables, crisp bacon, and a creamy, tangy dressing. It’s a favorite at potlucks, barbecues, and family gatherings thanks to its bold flavors, easy prep, and make-ahead convenience. The combination of raw broccoli and cauliflower with sweet and savory mix-ins creates a salad that’s both hearty and satisfying.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

broccolicauliflowerred onioncooked baconshredded cheddar cheese sunflower seeds or chopped nutsmayonaisesour creamapple cider vinegarsugar

directions

Chop the broccoli and cauliflower into small bite-sized florets.

Finely dice the red onion and cook the bacon until crisp, then crumble.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped vegetables, bacon, cheese, and sunflower seeds or nuts.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, and sugar until smooth.

Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss well to coat everything evenly.

Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to blend.

Stir again just before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 8 servings.Preparation time: 15 minutesChilling time: 1 hourTotal time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

Add dried cranberries or raisins for a sweet contrast.

Swap sunflower seeds with slivered almonds or chopped walnuts.

Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter version.

Add diced apples or grapes for extra crunch and sweetness.

Use red wine vinegar instead of apple cider vinegar for a different tang.

storage/reheating

Store Broccoli Cauliflower Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Do not freeze, as the texture of the vegetables and dressing will change unpleasantly.Stir before serving if it has been sitting to redistribute the dressing.

FAQs

Can I make Broccoli Cauliflower Salad ahead of time?

Yes, it’s actually better when made a few hours ahead so the flavors can meld.

Do I need to cook the broccoli and cauliflower?

No, they are used raw for a crunchy texture, but you can blanch them briefly if you prefer softer veggies.

Is this salad keto-friendly?

Yes, it can be made keto-friendly by reducing or omitting the sugar in the dressing.

What can I use instead of mayo?

You can use plain Greek yogurt or a mix of yogurt and olive oil for a lighter version.

Can I omit the bacon?

Yes, for a vegetarian version, simply leave out the bacon or replace it with a plant-based alternative.

How long does the salad last in the fridge?

Up to 4 days when stored properly in an airtight container.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

Yes, but freshly shredded cheese usually melts better into the salad and has more flavor.

How do I keep the salad from getting soggy?

Keep the dressing separate until ready to serve if preparing far in advance.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, as long as all added ingredients (like bacon and cheese) are certified gluten-free.

Can I add hard-boiled eggs?

Absolutely, chopped hard-boiled eggs make a great addition for extra protein.

Conclusion

Broccoli Cauliflower Salad is a vibrant, crunchy, and satisfying dish that brings a balance of creamy, tangy, and savory flavors to any table. Whether you’re hosting a picnic, preparing a family meal, or need a reliable potluck side, this salad is sure to please a crowd with minimal effort. Try it once, and it might just become your new go-to salad recipe.