Description
Savory loaded broccoli cauliflower salad brings garden-fresh crunch and creamy indulgence to your plate. Crisp vegetables mingle with smoky bacon bits and tangy dressing, promising a delightful bite you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Vegetables:
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cups cauliflower florets
Protein and Toppings:
- 1/2 cup crispy bacon bits
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
Dressing and Seasonings:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp sour cream
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp dijon mustard
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 green onions, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the cruciferous vegetables by thoroughly washing broccoli and cauliflower florets, then pat them completely dry using clean kitchen towels to ensure maximum dressing adherence.
- Chop green onions into fine, delicate rings and set aside for garnishing the final dish.
- Crisp bacon in a skillet over medium heat until golden brown and perfectly crunchy, then drain on paper towels to remove excess grease and create crisp bits.
- Whisk mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper in a mixing bowl until smooth and well-incorporated, creating a creamy and tangy dressing.
- Combine broccoli and cauliflower florets in a large serving bowl, ensuring an even mixture of both vegetables.
- Pour prepared dressing over the vegetables and gently fold to coat every piece thoroughly, allowing flavors to meld together.
- Sprinkle crispy bacon bits, shredded cheddar cheese, and sunflower seeds over the dressed vegetables, creating a multi-textured and flavorful salad.
- Garnish with chopped green onions for a fresh, zesty finish.
- Chill the salad for 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to develop and meld together, enhancing the overall taste profile.
Notes
- Ensure veggies are completely dry to prevent watery, diluted dressing that won’t cling properly to the florets.
- Use sharp knife skills to create uniform, bite-sized floret pieces for consistent texture and even dressing distribution.
- Swap bacon for crispy tempeh or coconut bacon bits to make the salad vegetarian-friendly and add a smoky crunch alternative.
- Prep ingredients ahead of time and store separately to maintain optimal crispness, mixing just before serving to preserve the salad’s vibrant texture and prevent sogginess.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: None
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 32 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 14 g
- Cholesterol: 35 mg