Creamy Broccoli Cauliflower Salad

Ingredients

The Salad Base

• 3 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped into bite-sized pieces

• 3 cups fresh cauliflower florets, chopped small

• 6 slices bacon, cooked until crisp and crumbled

• ¾ cup sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated

• ⅓ cup red onion, finely diced

• ½ cup roasted sunflower seeds
  (or chopped almonds for a nutty variation)

• Optional: ½ cup dried cranberries or raisins for gentle sweetness

The Creamy Dressing

• ¾ cup mayonnaise, good quality

• ¼ cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt

• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  (or honey or maple syrup)

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Vegetables

• Wash broccoli and cauliflower thoroughly

• Pat completely dry using a clean kitchen towel

Important Tip: Dry vegetables allow the dressing to cling properly instead of sliding off.

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• Chop into small, evenly sized pieces for the best texture and flavor in every bite

2. Cook the Bacon

• Cook bacon in a skillet or oven until deeply crisp

• Transfer to paper towels to cool

• Crumble into small pieces

Make-Ahead Tip: Store bacon separately and add just before serving to keep it crunchy.

3. Make the Dressing

• In a medium bowl, whisk together:

  • Mayonnaise

  • Sour cream (or yogurt)

  • Apple cider vinegar

  • Sugar

  • Salt

  • Black pepper

• Whisk until smooth and creamy

• Taste and adjust:

  • Add more vinegar for tang

  • Add a touch more sweetener if desired

    

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4. Assemble the Salad

• In a large mixing bowl, combine:

  • Broccoli

  • Cauliflower

  • Red onion

  • Cheddar cheese

  • Sunflower seeds

• Pour dressing over the salad

• Fold gently until all vegetables are evenly coated

5. Chill for Best Flavor

• Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes

• For best results, chill 3–4 hours to allow flavors to blend

• Stir in the crumbled bacon just before serving
  (or sprinkle on top for presentation)

Texture & Flavor Notes

• Crisp vegetables with creamy coating

• Savory, slightly sweet, and tangy balance

• Bacon adds crunch and smoky depth

Customization & Variations

Lighter Version

• Replace half the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt

• Use honey or reduce sweetener

  

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Low-Carb Version

• Omit sugar and dried fruit

• Add extra bacon or chopped hard-boiled eggs

Plant-Based Version

• Use dairy-free mayonnaise

• Replace bacon with toasted seeds or smoked seasoning

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

• Make Ahead:

  • Chop vegetables and prepare dressing up to 24 hours in advance

  • Store separately and combine 1–2 hours before serving

• Leftovers:

  • Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator

  • Keeps well for up to 3 days

  • Stir before serving as some moisture may release

• Freezing:

  • Not recommended due to texture changes