“Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Salad” is a vibrant and hearty dish that combines the crisp, refreshing flavors of broccoli and cauliflower with a medley of delicious additions to create a colorful and nutritious salad. The recipe features fresh broccoli and cauliflower as the base, both chopped into bite-sized florets, providing a crunchy texture and a mild, slightly sweet flavor. These are complemented by an array of ingredients that add depth and richness to the salad.
The salad includes crispy bacon, cooked to a perfect golden-brown, adding a savory, smoky element. Sharp cheddar cheese, cut into small cubes, contributes a creamy and tangy taste, which pairs beautifully with the vegetables. For a sweet contrast, the salad incorporates juicy cherry tomatoes, sliced in half, adding a pop of color and a burst of freshness. Red onion, finely chopped, adds a slight piquant edge, balancing the other flavors.
The dressing for the salad is a creamy, tangy mixture that coats the vegetables beautifully, enhancing their natural flavors. It’s made with a base of mayonnaise and sour cream, seasoned with a blend of spices, and sometimes a hint of garlic, lending a rich and smooth texture that complements the crispness of the vegetables.
To add a crunchy contrast, the salad is garnished with sunflower seeds or chopped nuts, which provide a nutty flavor and a delightful crunch. Fresh herbs, like dill or parsley, are sprinkled on top for a burst of freshness and color.
This Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Salad is often enjoyed as a side dish at barbecues, potlucks, or picnics, where its creamy, crunchy, and savory profile makes it a popular choice. It’s also a versatile recipe, allowing for variations like adding dried cranberries for sweetness or swapping out the bacon for a vegetarian protein, making it adaptable to different dietary preferences.
INGREDIENTS
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoons Swerve, or other sweetener
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 3 cups raw broccoli
- 3 cups raw cauliflower
- ½ red onion, chopped
- ½ cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 8 oz bacon, cooked and crumbled
- ½ cup raw pecan pieces
INSTRUCTIONS
- In a bowl add the mayonnaise, Swerve and apple cider vinegar. Whisk to combine.
- In a large bowl add the dressing and all the other ingredients and mix well.
- Refrigerate until ready to use.