Hello, my lovely foodies! I’m Olivia, and I’m so excited to share one of my favorite recipes – Broccoli and Cauliflower Salad recipe . There’s something magical about a fresh, crunchy salad that brightens up any meal. Whether you’re looking for a vibrant side dish for dinner or something special to bring to a potluck, this salad will always impress.
As the sun peeked through the kitchen window, I knew it was the perfect day for a salad. The crisp broccoli and cauliflower florets called to me. Their vibrant hues promised a fresh and crunchy salad. This easy broccoli and cauliflower salad is a favorite in my home. It’s a recipe that always pleases my taste buds and keeps me healthy.
Table of Contents
Why This Fresh and Crunchy Salad Will Become Your Favorite
This broccoli and cauliflower salad is a must-try for health-conscious foodies. It’s packed with crunchy raw veggies, toasted nuts, and a creamy dressing. The combination of these flavors and textures will keep you coming back for more.
Health Benefits of Raw Broccoli and Cauliflower
Broccoli and cauliflower are nutrient-dense vegetables, rich in fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Eating them raw preserves their nutritional value, making this salad a wholesome choice. Their crunchy texture adds a satisfying bite with every forkful.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This versatile salad is perfect for a wide range of events, from backyard barbecues and potlucks to holiday gatherings. Its vibrant appearance makes it a standout dish, and it’s easy to make ahead so you can spend more time with your guests..
Make-Ahead Convenience
This salad can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. For the best texture, store the dressing separately and combine just before serving.
Essential Ingredients for Your Kitchen
Here’s what you’ll need to make this salad:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Broccoli florets | 4-5 cups (10-12 oz bag) |
| Cauliflower florets | 2.5-3 cups (10 oz bag) |
| Red onion | 1 medium (1/2 cup) |
| Pecans | 1/2 cup |
| Dried cherries or cranberries | 1/2 cup |
| Mayonnaise | 3/4 cup |
| Rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar | 3 tablespoons |
| Honey or sugar | 2 teaspoons |
| Mrs. Dash Original Seasoning | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
Feel free to adjust the nuts, cheeses, or dried fruits to suit your taste.
Broccoli and Cauliflower Salad Recipe: Step-by-Step Guide
Get ready to make a tasty and healthy plant-based meal with this broccoli and cauliflower salad recipe. This salad is full of vitamins and minerals. It’s a great choice for your weekly vitamin-packed salads.
Preparing the Vegetables
Cut the broccoli and cauliflower into small florets—about 5 cups of each. Rinse them under cold water and dry thoroughly.
Making the Creamy Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, honey, and a pinch of salt.
Assembling the Salad
In a large salad bowl, combine the broccoli and cauliflower with diced apples, spinach, roasted cashews, cranberries, and raisins. Pour the dressing over the top and toss gently. Refrigerate for at least one hour to allow the flavors to meld.
Crafting the Perfect Creamy Dressing
Start with mayonnaise and sour cream for a smooth base. Add honey for sweetness, lemon juice (or vinegar) for a zesty kick, and season with Mrs. Dash for extra flavor. For a lighter option, use Greek yogurt in place of some of the mayonnaise.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Mayonnaise | 1 1/2 cups |
| Sour Cream | 1/2 cup |
| White Vinegar or Apple Cider Vinegar | 1/4 cup |
| Maple Syrup | 1/4 cup |
Creative Mix-ins and Variations
Make your vegetable salads and easy vegetarian recipes even better with tasty mix-ins. Add different ingredients to the classic broccoli and cauliflower salad. This will make it more interesting and delicious.
Nuts and Seeds Options
Add some crunch with toasted nuts or seeds. Try these:
- Sunflower seeds
- Toasted sliced almonds
- Chopped walnuts
- Candied pecans
Cheese and Protein Additions
Make the salad more filling with cheese or protein:
- Shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or Colby jack cheese
- Crumbled feta or goat cheese
- Grilled or roasted chicken strips
- Cooked and crumbled bacon
Dried Fruit Alternatives
Bring sweetness and chewiness with dried fruits:
- Raisins
- Dried cranberries or cherries
- Chopped dried apricots
- Diced dried mango
For extra crunch and tang, add diced purple onion. Also, drizzle with apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar. You can make this vegetable salad your own in many ways.
Storage Tips and Make-Ahead Instructions
Store the salad in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. For the best texture, store the dressing separately and mix just before serving.
| Storage Duration | Recommended Fridge Storage | Freezing |
|---|---|---|
| Up to 3-4 days | In an airtight container | Not recommended |
Nutritional Information and Health Benefits
This salad is packed with nutrients, offering fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. It contains:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 249-419 |
| Fat | 18-34g |
| Carbohydrates | 18-20g |
| Protein | 4-10g |
| Fiber | 4-6g |
| Vitamin C | 68-140mg |
| Potassium | 358-521mg |
Broccoli and cauliflower are both rich in beta-carotene, Vitamin C, and fiber—key nutrients for immune support, heart health, and overall well-being.
Serving Suggestions and Pairing Ideas
Pair this salad with:
- Oven-fried chicken
- Crockpot pulled pork
- Roast beef sandwiches
It also works well with grilled portobello mushrooms or a hearty bean soup for a vegetarian option.
Conclusion
This broccoli and cauliflower salad recipe is a perfect mix of crunch, creaminess, and taste. It’s great as a side dish or a light main course. It’s sure to be a hit in your kitchen.
The salad’s bright colors and healthy ingredients make it a great choice for any meal. You can adjust it with your favorite toppings and dressing. This makes it perfect for any diet.
Enjoying this healthy salad recipe is a treat. You’ll love the crunchy texture and the flavors. It’s a nutritious way to enjoy your veggies. Make it a staple in your meals for a tasty and healthy option.