Crunchy Broccoli Cauliflower Salad – Fresh & Flavorful Delight

There’s something magical about crunching into a vibrant Broccoli Cauliflower Salad. With every bite, you experience a dance of textures and flavors that makes your taste buds sing. baked squash rounds This salad is not just a side dish; it’s like a celebration of freshness and health on your plate.

Imagine a picnic on a sunny afternoon where the aroma of crisp vegetables mingles with laughter and sunshine. That’s how I feel every time I whip up this delightful concoction. It’s perfect for family gatherings, BBQs, or just as a colorful companion at your weeknight dinner table. peach lemonade drink Get ready to embark on an adventure of flavors that will leave you craving more.

I once brought this salad to a family reunion, and let’s just say my aunt tried to bribe me for the recipe—definitely a win! crispy sticky tofu.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Fresh Broccoli: Choose bright green florets that are firm and free from blemishes for the best flavor.

• Cauliflower: Look for compact heads with no brown spots; they should be crisp and fresh.

• Red Onion: Use thinly sliced red onion for a mild, sweet crunch that adds great color.

• Cherry Tomatoes: Opt for plump, juicy tomatoes; they add a burst of sweetness to the salad.

• Cheddar Cheese: Shredded sharp cheddar provides a rich flavor that complements the veggies beautifully. quick veggie stir fry.

• Ranch Dressing: Store-bought or homemade, ranch dressing brings it all together with its creamy goodness.

• Sunflower Seeds: A sprinkle of these adds an extra crunch and nutty flavor that elevates the dish.

• Dried Cranberries: For a hint of sweetness and chewy texture, include these little gems in your salad.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Broccoli Cauliflower Salad

For more inspiration, check out this Mediterranean Tzatziki Chicken Salad recipe.

Prep Your Veggies: Rinse the broccoli and cauliflower under cold water until they’re squeaky clean. Cut them into bite-sized pieces so everyone can enjoy without wrestling with their food.

Toss in Colorful Additions: In a large mixing bowl, combine chopped cherry tomatoes and thinly sliced red onions. Their bright colors will make you think you’re painting a masterpiece.

Add Cheese and Crunchies: Gently fold in shredded cheddar cheese along with sunflower seeds and cranberries. The cheese gives richness while those seeds contribute delightful crunch.

Dress It Up!: Pour your ranch dressing over the salad mixture. Stir gently until everything is coated in creamy goodness—this is where things get really exciting!

Chill Before Serving: Let it sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows those flavors to mingle together like old friends catching up over coffee.

This Broccoli Cauliflower Salad not only pleases your palate but also serves as an eye-catching centerpiece on any dining table! Enjoy!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by blanching the broccoli and cauliflower for about three minutes. This keeps them crisp while enhancing their vibrant color. Next, prepare your dressing while they cool; this multitasking approach saves time and ensures everything is fresh.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap in other veggies like carrots or bell peppers for extra crunch. Adding nuts or seeds can elevate the texture, while spices like cumin or paprika can enhance flavor. Customize it to suit your taste.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For best results, enjoy it cold straight from the fridge. If reheating, do so gently to avoid limp vegetables.

Sometimes I whip up this salad for a picnic with friends, and they rave about it! One insisted I need to add it to my wedding menu someday – talk about pressure!

FAQ

Can I use frozen broccoli and cauliflower for this salad?

Frozen veggies are convenient but may lose their crunch; use fresh for best results.

How long will Broccoli Cauliflower Salad last in the fridge?

The salad stays fresh for about three days if stored properly in an airtight container.

What dressing works best with Broccoli Cauliflower Salad?

A tangy vinaigrette or creamy ranch dressing complements the vegetables perfectly.

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Broccoli Cauliflower Salad

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Broccoli Cauliflower Salad is a vibrant and crunchy dish that celebrates fresh flavors and textures. Packed with colorful vegetables, creamy ranch dressing, and a hint of sweetness from dried cranberries, this salad is perfect for potlucks, BBQs, or a healthy weeknight dinner. Its customizable nature allows you to tailor it to your taste preferences while providing a nutritious boost to any meal.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
• 2 cups fresh cauliflower florets
• 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup ranch dressing
• 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries

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Instructions

1. Rinse broccoli and cauliflower under cold water; cut into bite-sized pieces.
2. In a large bowl, combine broccoli, cauliflower, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
3. Gently fold in cheddar cheese, sunflower seeds, and cranberries.
4. Pour ranch dressing over the salad; stir until well coated.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 320mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 20mg