Broccoli Cauliflower Salad with Cheddar and Bacon

Broccoli Cauliflower Salad is a delightful combination of fresh vegetables, crispy bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and a creamy, tangy dressing. It’s perfect for potlucks, picnics, or as a side dish for any meal.

Why Make This Recipe

This salad is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. It’s packed with flavor and texture, making it a hit with both kids and adults alike. Plus, it can be made ahead of time, making it perfect for meal prep or entertaining.

How to Make Broccoli Cauliflower Salad

Ingredients:

For the Salad:

3 cups broccoli florets, cut into bite-sized pieces
3 cups cauliflower florets, cut into bite-sized pieces
⅔ cup sliced almonds
⅓ cup finely chopped red onion
1 cup finely cubed cheddar cheese
10 slices bacon, crispy cooked and coarsely chopped

For the Dressing:

1 cup mayonnaise
1 1/2 tablespoons sugar
3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

Directions:

Prepare the Vegetables:
- Wash the broccoli and cauliflower florets thoroughly. Ensure they are cut into small, bite-sized pieces for easier eating and better dressing coverage.
Cook and Prepare the Bacon:
- Cook the bacon until crispy, either in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes. Once cooked, transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease, then chop coarsely.
Mix the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sugar, and apple cider vinegar. Whisk together until smooth and well-blended. Taste and adjust the sweetness or tanginess according to your preference.
Combine the Salad Ingredients:
- In a large salad bowl, add the broccoli and cauliflower florets, sliced almonds, chopped red onion, and cubed cheddar cheese. Toss gently to mix.
Dress the Salad:
- Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients in the bowl. Use a large spoon or salad tongs to toss the salad, ensuring all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
Add Bacon and Serve:
- Add the chopped bacon to the salad and give it a final toss to distribute the bacon pieces throughout the salad.

How to Serve Broccoli Cauliflower Salad

This salad can be served immediately or refrigerated for an hour to allow the flavors to meld together more deeply.

How to Store Broccoli Cauliflower Salad

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Tips to Make Broccoli Cauliflower Salad

Make sure to cut the broccoli and cauliflower into small, bite-sized pieces for easier eating.
If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought bacon bits instead of cooking your own bacon.
Feel free to add other ingredients like dried cranberries or sunflower seeds for extra flavor and texture.

FAQs

1. Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon? Yes, you can use turkey bacon if you prefer. Just cook it according to the package instructions and chop it up before adding it to the salad.

2. Can I use a different type of cheese? Absolutely! Feel free to swap out the cheddar cheese for your favorite cheese, such as Swiss or gouda.

3. Can I make the dressing ahead of time? Yes, you can make the dressing up to 3 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use it.