Broccoli & Cauliflower Salad – A Crunchy, Creamy Delight!

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This fresh, vibrant salad combines crisp broccoli, cauliflower, and a tangy-sweet dressing for the perfect balance of textures and flavors. Great for potlucks, BBQs, or as a healthy side dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✅ No cooking required – Ready in 15 minutes
✅ Crunchy & creamy – The best of both worlds
✅ Make-ahead friendly – Tastes even better chilled
✅ Customizable – Add your favorite mix-ins

Ingredients & Substitutions

For the Salad

  • 4 cups broccoli florets, chopped small
  • 4 cups cauliflower florets, chopped small
  • ½ red onion, thinly sliced
  • ½ cup dried cranberries (or raisins)
  • ½ cup sunflower seeds (or chopped nuts)
  • ½ cup cooked bacon bits (optional)

For the Dressing

  • 1 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for lighter version)
  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tbsp honey (or maple syrup)
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the Vegetables

  1. Chop broccoli and cauliflower into bite-sized pieces.
  2. Thinly slice red onion (soak in cold water for 10 mins if too sharp).

2. Make the Dressing

  1. In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, vinegar, honey, mustard, salt, and pepper.

3. Assemble the Salad

  1. In a large bowl, combine broccoli, cauliflower, onion, cranberries, sunflower seeds, and bacon.
  2. Pour dressing over and toss well to coat.

4. Chill & Serve

  • Refrigerate at least 1 hour before serving (overnight is best).
  • Stir well and garnish with extra seeds or bacon if desired.

Pro Tips

🥦 Extra crunch: Blanch broccoli & cauliflower for 1 minute, then ice bath.
🍯 Dressing consistency: Thin with 1 tbsp milk if too thick.
🧅 Milder onions: Swap red onion for green onions or shallots.

Variations

🧀 Cheesy: Add ½ cup shredded cheddar
🌶 Spicy: Mix in diced jalapeños
🍎 Apple crunch: Add 1 diced apple

FAQs

Can I make it vegan?

Yes! Use vegan mayo and omit bacon.

How long does it keep?

Fridge for 3-4 days in an airtight container.

Can I use frozen veggies?

Yes, but thaw and pat very dry first.

Final Thoughts

This Broccoli & Cauliflower Salad is the ultimate crunchy, creamy side dish—sweet, tangy, and packed with texture. Perfect for picnics, holidays, or meal prep!

Pro tip: Double the batch—it disappears fast! 🥗✨

(Tag your creations #CrunchyVeggieSalad!)

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