Broccoli and Cauliflower Salad

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Broccoli and Cauliflower Salad pairs fresh veggies with a creamy tangy dressing. This is an easy make-ahead salad that feeds a crowd and keeps well for several days.

serving bowl of salad with stack of small bowls for serving

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You will love this

Broccoli and Cauliflower Salad is a favorite around my house. It's not only delicious, but it's make-ahead, feeds a crowd, and keeps wonderfully well in the refrigerator for several days. Made with just 5 ingredients and a 3-ingredient creamy dressing, this salad is easy to prepare.

The veggies are fresh and crisp. The bacon and cheese… well, let's just say I love bacon and cheese added to almost anything! The dressing is sweet and tangy. This combination is definitely a crowd-pleaser.

If you love broccoli and cheese together, try Broccoli Cheddar Pasta Salad or Broccoli Cheese Tart.

For more veggie-filled favorites, try Greek Orzo Pasta and Primavera Pasta Salad.

Ingredients

broccoli
cauliflower
red onion
bacon
cheddar cheese
Miracle Whip
sugar
apple cider vinegar

How to prepare

Start by cooking the bacon either in a skillet or in the oven. Chop and set aside.
Cut the broccoli and cauliflower into small florets.
Dice the red onion.
Add the veggies, bacon, and shredded cheddar to a large mixing bowl.
Whisk together the Miracle Whip, sugar, and vinegar.
Pour over the salad and toss until well coated.
Refrigerate the salad overnight.

Tips

This salad is best prepared one day in advance. The broccoli and cauliflower will have time to soften slightly as they marinate in the dressing and all of the flavors will blend.
Pre-shredded cheese works best in this recipe. I normally prefer using freshly shredded cheese in my recipes, but the anti-caking additives in pre-shredded cheese will prevent the cheese from clumping together in this salad. The cheese will distribute evenly when tossed with the other ingredients. The regular - not the finely shredded - is best.
I love using thick-cut bacon in this salad. I like its meaty bite, but any variety is fine.
Miracle Whip contributes wonderful tangy flavor to this dressing. While the Miracle Whip is delicious, mayonnaise can be substituted if you prefer.

FAQ's

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Absolutely. This salad is best made a day or two ahead of time. The flavors will blend and the dressing will soften the broccoli and cauliflower slightly.

Do I have to pre-cook or blanch the broccoli and cauliflower?

No. The vegetables will soften slightly in the dressing as the salad marinates. The uncooked broccoli and cauliflower keep well for 5-6 days without getting mushy. They will soften but will still have a crisp bite to them.

If you wish to serve the salad the same day, the broccoli and cauliflower can be blanched for 30 seconds or so. Since the veggies will continue to soften in the dressing, I recommend eating the salad within 1-2 days.

Ways to serve

Easter – this salad is delicious with ham and is a staple at our Easter dinners.
Potlucks - this recipe makes a large batch, so it is a perfect potluck dish.
Picnics or barbecues - wonderful with grilled chicken or alongside hamburgers and hot dogs.
Buffets for parties - a nice change from potato salad and coleslaw.
Meals for a family in need – because this salad keeps so well, it is an ideal option when bringing food to family or friends.

This easy, make-ahead salad is perfect for gatherings but is also ideal to prep and have on hand for the week. It's great for lunches or as a side dish for dinner.

Equipment

Skillet or sheet pan | Mixing bowl | Grater | Measuring spoons | Liquid measuring cup

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