broccoli cauliflower salad

Broccoli Cauliflower Salad Recipe

Get ready for a crunchy, vibrant, and utterly refreshing dish that’s perfect for any occasion! This Broccoli Cauliflower Salad is a true celebration of fresh flavors and crisp textures, tossed in a creamy, tangy dressing that ties everything together beautifully. Whether you’re serving it at a summer picnic, adding it to your weeknight dinner spread, or enjoying it as a light lunch, this salad is guaranteed to brighten your plate. Trust me—you’re going to love every crunchy, flavorful bite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Crisp and Fresh: A refreshing, veggie-packed salad with loads of texture and flavor.
  • Simple and Quick: Comes together in minutes with minimal prep—perfect for busy days.
  • Versatile and Customizable: Add your favorite nuts, dried fruits, or cheeses for a personalized twist.
  • Perfect for Meal Prep: Tastes even better after chilling, making it ideal for make-ahead meals.
A vibrant bowl of broccoli cauliflower salad featuring fresh vegetables, shredded cheddar cheese, sunflower seeds, and dried cranberries, all tossed in a creamy dressing.
Fresh, crunchy, and bursting with flavor—this Broccoli Cauliflower Salad is the perfect side dish for any meal! Quick to make and loaded with vibrant veggies, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this crunchy, flavorful salad:

  • Broccoli Florets: Fresh, crisp, and packed with nutrients, they add the perfect crunch.
  • Cauliflower Florets: Mild, slightly nutty, and beautifully textured to complement the broccoli.
  • Red Onion: Adds a sharp, zesty bite that balances the creamy dressing.
  • Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Brings a rich, savory creaminess to the salad.
  • Sunflower Seeds: Adds a nutty crunch for extra texture.
  • Dried Cranberries: A touch of sweetness that pairs perfectly with the tangy dressing.
  • Greek Yogurt or Mayonnaise: Forms the creamy base of the dressing—use your favorite!
  • Apple Cider Vinegar: Brings a bright, tangy zing that lifts the whole dish.
  • Honey: Adds a hint of natural sweetness to balance the tangy flavors.
  • Salt and Black Pepper: Enhances and balances all the flavors.

Note: Ingredients with measurements will be right under the article in the recipe card.

How to Make the Broccoli Cauliflower Salad

Step 1: Prep the Veggies

Start by chopping the broccoli and cauliflower into small, bite-sized florets. Thinly slice the red onion and set everything aside in a large mixing bowl.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

In a separate bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise), apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. This dressing is all about that balance of tangy and sweet!

Step 3: Mix It All Together

Pour the dressing over the chopped veggies. Add shredded cheddar cheese, sunflower seeds, and dried cranberries. Gently toss everything together until all the ingredients are well-coated in that luscious dressing.

Step 4: Chill Before Serving

Let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps the flavors meld together and makes the salad even more delicious.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once chilled, give it a quick stir and serve cold for the ultimate crunchy, creamy, and flavorful experience.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

  • Chop Small: Cutting the broccoli and cauliflower into small florets ensures every bite is packed with flavor.
  • Let It Chill: Allow the salad to sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors blend beautifully.
  • Add Some Crunch: Swap sunflower seeds for toasted almonds, pecans, or even pumpkin seeds for a different texture.
  • Lighten It Up: Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a healthier, protein-packed dressing.

How to Serve

This Broccoli Cauliflower Salad is versatile and pairs well with a variety of dishes:

  • As a Side Dish: Perfect alongside grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or your favorite pasta.
  • Light Lunch: Serve on its own for a refreshing, nutritious lunch.
  • Potluck Favorite: A great addition to picnics, BBQs, or family gatherings.
  • Topped with Protein: Add some grilled tofu, chicken, or hard-boiled eggs for a heartier meal.
A creamy broccoli cauliflower salad served in a large glass bowl, garnished with shredded cheese, sunflower seeds, and dried cranberries for a colorful presentation.
Bright, fresh, and full of flavor—this Broccoli Cauliflower Salad is the perfect addition to any meal!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors get even better the next day!

Freezing

This salad isn’t ideal for freezing since the creamy dressing and fresh vegetables may lose their texture after thawing.

Reheating

No reheating needed—this salad is best served cold straight from the fridge!

FAQs

  1. Can I make this salad dairy-free?
    Yes! Simply swap out the cheddar cheese for a dairy-free alternative and use a vegan mayonnaise or yogurt.
  2. How can I make the dressing healthier?
    You can use plain Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter, protein-rich alternative without sacrificing creaminess.
  3. What can I use instead of dried cranberries?
    Try raisins, dried cherries, or even chopped dates for a different hint of sweetness.
  4. Can I prepare this salad in advance?
    Absolutely! This salad tastes even better when made ahead of time—just store it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.

This Broccoli Cauliflower Salad is a fresh, creamy, and crunchy masterpiece that’s perfect for any occasion. Easy to whip up and packed with bold flavors and textures, it’s sure to become a go-to favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy every delicious bite!

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Close-up of a creamy broccoli cauliflower salad mixed with vibrant vegetables, cheddar cheese, and dried cranberries, perfect for a healthy side dish.

broccoli cauliflower salad


  • Author: thomes
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Description

This Broccoli Cauliflower Salad is a vibrant, crunchy, and refreshing dish that’s perfect for any meal or occasion. Featuring fresh broccoli and cauliflower florets, tossed in a creamy, tangy dressing and complemented with crunchy seeds, sweet dried cranberries, and sharp cheddar cheese—this salad is both nourishing and satisfying. It’s perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a quick, healthy lunch. Easy to make ahead, it gets even better as the flavors meld together in the fridge. You’ll love every bite of this light, flavorful, and wholesome salad!


Ingredients

  • Broccoli Florets – Fresh and crunchy, packed with vitamins and fiber.
  • Cauliflower Florets – Mild and nutty, adding texture and bulk to the salad.
  • Red Onion – Adds a crisp, zesty punch.
  • Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Provides a rich, creamy bite.
  • Sunflower Seeds – For a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor.
  • Dried Cranberries – Brings a sweet and tangy burst of flavor.
  • Greek Yogurt or Mayonnaise – Forms the creamy base of the dressing.
  • Apple Cider Vinegar – Adds a tangy brightness to balance the flavors.
  • Honey – Offers a light sweetness for balance.
  • Salt and Black Pepper – Enhances all the flavors.

Instructions

  • Prep the Veggies:
    Chop the broccoli and cauliflower into small, bite-sized florets. Thinly slice the red onion and place everything in a large mixing bowl.

  • Make the Dressing:
    In a separate bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise), apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.

  • Combine Ingredients:
    Pour the dressing over the vegetables. Add shredded cheddar, sunflower seeds, and dried cranberries. Gently toss until well combined.

  • Chill:
    Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to blend together.

  • Serve:
    Stir the salad once more before serving and enjoy this refreshing, crunchy dish cold.

Notes

  • Make It Lighter: Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a healthier, protein-rich option.
  • Add Some Crunch: Swap sunflower seeds for toasted almonds, pecans, or pumpkin seeds.
  • Add Protein: Toss in cooked chicken or hard-boiled eggs for a more filling meal.
  • Flavor Boost: A little lemon zest can brighten up the overall flavor.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 210 kcal
  • Sugar: 7g
  • Sodium: 220mg
  • Fat: 220mg
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 14g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 8g
  • Cholesterol: 20mg

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