Broccoli Cauliflower Salad Recipe in 15 Minutes – 5 Easy Tips

Craving a quick, healthy salad that’s both crispy and creamy? This broccoli cauliflower salad recipe is your answer to a delicious side dish that comes together in just 15 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or meal prep, this recipe combines fresh vegetables with a creamy dressing that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Recipe Overview

Total Time: 15 minutes
Prep Time: 15 minutes (no cooking required!)
Difficulty Level: Easy
Servings: 6

Why you’ll love this broccoli cauliflower salad recipe:

• Quick and easy preparation
• Packed with nutrients
• Make-ahead friendly
• Perfect for meal prep
• Customizable to dietary preferences

Essential Ingredients

For the Salad Base:

• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped small
• 4 cups fresh cauliflower florets, chopped small
• 1/2 red onion, finely diced
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup sunflower seeds
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries

For the Creamy Dressing:

• 1 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter version)
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

5 Pro Tips for the Perfect Salad

1. Size Matters: Chop broccoli and cauliflower into small, bite-sized pieces for the perfect texture and easier eating.
2. Pre-chill Ingredients: Keep your vegetables cold before mixing for maximum crispness.
3. Dress to Impress: Make the dressing first and let it chill while preparing other ingredients for better flavor development.
4. Perfect Balance: Maintain the right ratio of vegetables to toppings (4:1) for the best texture combination.
5. Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare components separately and combine just before serving for optimal freshness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Dressing

• In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and honey
• Season with salt and pepper
• Refrigerate while preparing other ingredients

1. Prepare the Vegetables

• Wash broccoli and cauliflower thoroughly
• Cut into small, uniform florets
• Finely dice red onion

1. Combine Ingredients

• In a large bowl, combine broccoli, cauliflower, and red onion
• Add shredded cheese, sunflower seeds, and dried cranberries
• Pour dressing over the mixture

1. Final Assembly

• Toss all ingredients gently until well combined
• Taste and adjust seasoning if needed

Presentation Tips

• Serve in a large, clear bowl to showcase the colorful ingredients
• Garnish with extra sunflower seeds and dried cranberries
• Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs for color contrast
• Keep some extra dressing on the side

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

• Store undressed salad components separately for up to 3 days
• Keep dressed salad refrigerated for up to 24 hours
• Store dressing separately in an airtight container for up to 5 days
• Do not freeze this salad

Recipe Variations

Dietary Modifications:

• Vegan: Use vegan mayonnaise and skip the cheese
• Low-carb: Omit dried cranberries and reduce honey
• Dairy-free: Skip the cheese or use dairy-free alternatives

Flavor Variations:

• Mediterranean: Add olives and feta cheese
• Asian-inspired: Use sesame oil and rice vinegar in dressing
• Nutty: Add chopped almonds or pecans

Health Benefits

This broccoli cauliflower salad recipe is packed with nutrients:

• High in fiber
• Rich in vitamins C and K
• Good source of protein
• Loaded with antioxidants
• Heart-healthy fats from seeds

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: Yes, but store the dressing separately and combine just before serving.

Q: How long does this salad last in the refrigerator?
A: Dressed salad lasts 24 hours; undressed components last 3-5 days.

Q: Can I use frozen vegetables?
A: Fresh vegetables are recommended for the best texture and crunch.

Q: Is this recipe keto-friendly?
A: Modify by omitting honey and cranberries for a keto-friendly version.

Conclusion

This quick and easy broccoli cauliflower salad recipe is perfect for any occasion. With just 15 minutes of prep time and these 5 essential tips, you’ll create a crowd-pleasing dish that’s both healthy and delicious. Try it today and let us know in the comments how you customized it to make it your own!

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