Servings | Total Time | Difficulty | Calories
Servings: 8
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes (optional)
Total Time: 30–60 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Calories: Approximately 390 per serving
Introduction
This Cauliflower & Broccoli Salad is a classic deli-style side dish loaded with crisp fresh vegetables, smoky bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and a rich, creamy dressing that’s sweet, tangy, and incredibly satisfying. Perfect for potlucks, BBQs, holiday dinners, picnics, or meal prep, this crunchy salad actually tastes even better after chilling, allowing all the flavors to blend together beautifully.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crisp, fresh vegetables
- Creamy homemade dressing
- Loaded with crispy bacon
- Perfect make-ahead side dish
- Great for BBQs, cookouts, and holidays
- Naturally low in carbs
- Ready in under 30 minutes
Ingredients
Salad
- 1 medium head broccoli, cut into bite-sized florets
- 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
- ½ pound bacon, cooked until crispy and crumbled
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Creamy Dressing
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup sour cream
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
Instructions
Step 1 – Prepare the Vegetables
Wash the broccoli and cauliflower thoroughly.
Pat dry completely.
Cut both into small, bite-sized florets.
Place them into a large mixing bowl.
Step 2 – Cook the Bacon
Cook bacon until crispy.
Drain on paper towels.
Crumble into small pieces.
Add to the bowl.
Step 3 – Add the Cheese
Stir the shredded cheddar cheese into the vegetables and bacon.
Mix gently.
Step 4 – Make the Dressing
In a separate bowl combine:
- Mayonnaise
- Sour cream
- Sugar
- Salt
Whisk until smooth and creamy.
Step 5 – Combine
Pour the dressing over the salad.
Toss gently until every piece is evenly coated.
Step 6 – Chill
Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to 2 hours for even better flavor.
Pro Tips
- Dry the vegetables well so the dressing doesn’t become watery.
- Cut florets into small, even pieces for easier serving.
- Chill before serving for the best texture and flavor.
- Use freshly shredded cheddar for the creamiest results.
- Cook the bacon until extra crispy so it stays crunchy.
Variations
Ranch Version
Replace half of the mayonnaise with ranch dressing.
Keto Version
Replace the sugar with:
- Monk fruit sweetener
- Erythritol
- Allulose
Extra Crunch
Add:
- Sunflower seeds
- Sliced almonds
- Chopped pecans
Fruity Twist
Mix in:
- Red grapes
- Dried cranberries
- Apple chunks
More Veggies
Add:
- Red onion
- Green onions
- Bell peppers
- Shredded carrots
Storage
Refrigerator
Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer
Not recommended, as the dressing will separate after thawing.
Serving Suggestions
This salad pairs wonderfully with:
- Grilled chicken
- BBQ ribs
- Pulled pork
- Burgers
- Fried chicken
- Baked ham
- Steak
- Smoked brisket
Nutrition (Approximate Per Serving)
- Calories: 390
- Protein: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fat: 34g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 560mg
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. It’s even better after chilling for several hours.
Can I blanch the vegetables?
Yes. Blanch for 1 minute and immediately transfer to ice water if you prefer a slightly softer texture.
Can I use frozen broccoli or cauliflower?
Fresh vegetables are recommended for the best crunch.
Can I substitute Greek yogurt?
Yes. Replace part or all of the sour cream with plain Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
How long does it stay fresh?
It stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in a sealed container.
Final Thoughts
Cauliflower & Broccoli Salad is a timeless favorite that combines crisp vegetables, smoky bacon, sharp cheddar, and a creamy homemade dressing into one irresistible dish. Whether you’re serving it at a summer cookout, family gathering, or weekday dinner, it’s a simple make-ahead recipe that’s always a crowd-pleaser. The balance of crunchy textures and rich flavors makes this salad one you’ll come back to again and again.
