Why Make This Recipe
Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Salad is perfect for gatherings or family dinners. It combines crunchy veggies, crispy bacon, and a creamy dressing, making it delicious and satisfying. This salad is not only tasty but also packed with nutrients, making it a great option for a healthy side dish or light meal.
How to Make Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Salad
Ingredients
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cups cauliflower florets
- 6 slices bacon, cooked until crispy and crumbled
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar
Directions
- Blanch the broccoli and cauliflower florets in boiling salted water for 2-3 minutes until bright green and just tender. Drain and let cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled vegetables, crumbled bacon, chopped red onion, and shredded cheddar cheese.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, salt, pepper, and optional lemon juice or vinegar.
- Pour the creamy dressing over the vegetables and gently toss until evenly coated.
- Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve chilled as a side dish, optionally garnished with extra bacon bits or cheese.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
How to Serve Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Salad
Serve this salad cold as a side dish with grilled meats or as part of a picnic spread. You can also serve it as a light lunch or snack by itself. Adding a bit more bacon or cheese on top before serving can give it an extra touch.
How to Store Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Salad
To keep the salad fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay good for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving again, as some dressing might settle at the bottom.
Tips to Make Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Salad
- Make sure to cool the vegetables completely before mixing to prevent the dressing from getting warm.
- For more flavor, consider adding chopped nuts like walnuts or almonds.
- Adjust the amount of mayonnaise and sour cream according to your taste. You can also use Greek yogurt as a healthier alternative.
Variation
You can easily change this salad by adding other ingredients like diced celery, grated carrots, or even different types of cheese like feta or mozzarella.
FAQs
1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this salad a few hours or even the night before. Just keep it chilled until you are ready to serve.
2. Is there a vegetarian version of this salad?
Yes, you can skip the bacon and add chickpeas or more vegetables for a filling vegetarian option.
3. Can I freeze the Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Salad?
It is not recommended to freeze this salad as the vegetables may become mushy once thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh.