Description

Broccoli cauliflower salad is a vibrant, nutrient-packed salad featuring broccoli, cauliflower, bacon, dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, and a creamy dressing for a satisfying meal. Perfect for potlucks, holiday meals, or as a homemade dish that feeds a crowd. Easily paired with grilled proteins, sandwiches, or crusty bread.

Ingredients

For the Dressing:

– ¾ cup mayonnaise (substitute Greek yogurt or olive oil-based dressing for vegan diets)

– 1½–2 tbsp red wine vinegar (substitute balsamic vinegar or lemon juice if needed)

– 1½–2 tbsp sugar (substitute stevia or monk fruit for low-sugar diets)

– Sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper (to taste)

– ⅛ tsp garlic powder

– ⅛ tsp dried dill

For the Salad Base:

– 1 large head broccoli, chopped into small florets

– 1 head cauliflower, chopped into small florets

– ½ small red onion, diced (soak in ice water if too strong)

– ¼ cup dried cranberries

– ¼ cup roasted salted sunflower seeds

For Toppings:

– 6–8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled (substitute crispy chickpeas or tempeh for vegan diets)

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Instructions

In a glass jar, combine mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, sugar, sea salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and dried dill. Whisk well and set aside to allow flavors to meld.
Cook bacon in a skillet over medium-high heat until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels, then chop into bits.
In a large bowl, combine broccoli florets, cauliflower florets, diced red onion, and dried cranberries.
Drizzle half of the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for 30–60 minutes to allow flavors to mingle. Refrigerate the remaining dressing separately.
Before serving, sprinkle sunflower seeds and bacon crumbles over the salad. Add more dressing to taste and toss gently to combine.

Notes

– Use fresh, crisp broccoli and cauliflower for maximum crunch and flavor. Substitute plant-based ingredients for vegan diets.

– Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–5 days. Avoid freezing, as this salad does not freeze well due to its fresh ingredients.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Salad / Side Dish
Method: Mixing
Cuisine: American / Healthy

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: ~250
Sugar: 8g
Sodium: 300mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 12g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 6g
Cholesterol: 15mg