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The Ultimate Make-Ahead Creamy Broccoli Cauliflower Salad with Bacon

Close-up of creamy broccoli cauliflower salad topped generously with crispy bacon bits and shredded cheddar cheese.
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This recipe delivers a satisfying, crunchy, and creamy vegetable side dish perfect for potlucks, BBQs, or meal prep. It combines fresh vegetables with savory bacon and a tangy homemade dressing.

Ingredients

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  • 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
  • 4 cups fresh cauliflower florets
  • 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
  • 1/4 cup sunflower seeds (optional)
  • 1/4 cup raisins or dried cranberries (optional)
  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (or low-carb sweetener equivalent)
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Prepare the vegetables: Wash and thoroughly dry the broccoli and cauliflower florets. Cut the florets into small, bite-sized pieces. Finely dice the red onion.
  2. Combine the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the prepared broccoli, cauliflower, diced red onion, crumbled bacon, cheddar cheese, sunflower seeds, and dried fruit (if using).
  3. Make the dressing: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  4. Dress the salad: Pour the dressing over the vegetable mixture. Toss gently until all ingredients are evenly coated.
  5. Chill: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 2 hours before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the vegetables to soften slightly.
  6. Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed before serving. This salad keeps well for several days in the refrigerator.

Notes

  • For a low-carb or keto broccoli cauliflower salad, substitute the granulated sugar with a zero-calorie sweetener like erythritol or monk fruit blend.
  • If you are making this ahead for a potluck, wait to add the bacon until just before serving to keep it crisp.
  • This salad is excellent for meal prep; it tastes even better on the second day.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookerycommand.com/broccoli-cauliflower-salad/