Why Make This Recipe
Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Salad is a tasty and colorful side dish that brings a fun twist to any meal. It’s easy to make, packed with nutritious veggies, and can be a star at picnics, barbecues, or family dinners. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak some healthy greens into your diet while still enjoying indulgent flavors like bacon and cheese.
How to Make Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Salad
Ingredients:
- 3/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (light version or avocado substitute)
- 1/4 cup clover honey
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 cups small broccoli florets (diced)
- 4 cups small cauliflower florets (diced)
- 12 slices thick-cut bacon (cooked and diced; turkey bacon can be substituted or omitted for vegetarian)
- 8 ounces Colby Jack cheese (cubed; cheddar or pepper jack can be substituted)
- 1/2 medium red onion (chopped and rinsed)
- Optional: Toasted sunflower seeds for extra crunch
Directions:
- In a large bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, honey, red wine vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper until smooth and creamy.
- Add the broccoli and cauliflower florets, stirring until they are evenly coated.
- Gently fold in the diced bacon, cubed cheese, and chopped red onion.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Optionally, add toasted sunflower seeds just before serving for extra crunch. Serve chilled and enjoy!
How to Serve Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Salad
You can serve this salad as a refreshing side dish for grilled meats, sandwiches, or any main course. It’s also perfect for gatherings and potlucks. Just scoop it into a nice bowl and let everyone help themselves.
How to Store Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Salad
To store this salad, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it extra crunchy, consider adding the toasted sunflower seeds just before serving instead of mixing them in.
Tips to Make Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Salad
- Make sure to rinse the red onion to reduce its strong flavor.
- For a creamier texture, you can use full-fat mayonnaise and yogurt.
- Don’t skip the chilling time; letting it sit helps blend all the flavors together beautifully.
Variation
You can mix it up by adding other ingredients like diced bell peppers, shredded carrots, or even chopped apples for a sweet twist. You can also swap the Colby Jack cheese for any cheese you prefer.
FAQs
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad a day in advance. Just keep it in the fridge and add any crunchy toppings right before serving.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free, but always check labels if you have strict dietary needs.
Can I substitute the bacon?
Absolutely! You can use turkey bacon, omit it entirely for a vegetarian dish, or replace it with crispy chickpeas for a different crunchy texture.