Broccoli Cauliflower salad is undoubtedly a fantastic meal, and it has become one of my all-time favorites. The combination of raw cauliflower, crispy bacon, and tangy onion, all dressed with a delightful sweet basil dressing, creates a symphony of flavors that keeps you craving for more.
When I first attempted this dish, I was a bit apprehensive as I had no prior experience with such ingredients. However, since the recipe was highly recommended to me, I decided to give it a shot with minimal preparations. To my surprise, the result turned out to be incredible, far exceeding my expectations. I realized that I had underestimated my culinary abilities and should have put more effort into preparing it.
Breaking down the cauliflower might seem like a daunting task, but it’s a crucial step in making this salad. To do it correctly, start by cutting around the stem and removing as much of the core as possible. Then, strip away the leaves at the base and break the head into smaller, manageable pieces with your hands. Finally, slice the florets and remove any long fibrous stalks, leaving you with the perfect cauliflower for the salad.
The best part about this recipe is its versatility. You can easily tailor it to suit your preferences and dietary choices. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, adding sliced jalapenos (pickled or fresh) will give the salad a spicy kick. If you prefer a vegetarian version, simply omit the bacon and replace it with some ground spices for added flavor. I’ve never tried it myself, but I imagine a pinch of Old Bay seasoning could also bring an exciting twist to the dish.
Since that initial attempt, I find myself regularly making this salad, and it has even become my go-to dish for the next day’s meal. Although the cauliflower preparation might require some effort, the final outcome is undoubtedly worth it. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner like me, this Broccoli Cauliflower salad will leave you satisfied and wanting more each time you indulge in its delectable flavors.
Cook time: 10 mins
Additional time: 2 hrs
Total time: 2 hrs 35 mins
Prep time: 25 mins
Yield time:6 servings
Ingredients
1 head broccoli, chopped
1 head cauliflower, chopped
½ lb bacon cooked
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup mayonnaise
1 cup sour cream
½ cup sugar
½ teaspoon salt
How to prepare
Step 1:
Mix broccoli, cauliflower, bacon, and shredded cheese in a large bowl. In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, sour cream, sugar, and salt until well combined.
Step 2:
Pour mayonnaise mixture over broccoli mixture and stir until well incorporated.
Step 3:
Eat immediately or chill until ready to serve, and enjoy!
Tips and variations
To cut the cauliflower, remove the leaves from the base of the cauliflower. Next, cut around the stem with your knife. The cauliflower florets will naturally come off as you do this. Cut any large pieces into bite-size pieces with your knife.
The dressing can be made up to 5 days ahead of time for this recipe. It’s best to make it the night before you’re going to serve the salad. You may also toss the entire salad with the dressing the day before, excluding the lettuce. Just before serving, toss in the lettuce.
Nutritional fact
Calories: 194kcal, Carbohydrates: 15g, Protein: 7g, Fat: 13g Saturated Fat: 3g, Trans Fat: 1g, Cholesterol: 16mg, Sodium: 523 mg, Potassium: 644mg, Fiber: 4g, Sugar: 7g, Vitamin A: 9125IU, Vitamin C: 54mg, Calcium: 76mg, Iron: 2mg
Conclusion:
Broccoli Cauliflower Salad has quickly become a delightful and flavorful addition to my favorite dishes. The incredible fusion of raw cauliflower, savory bacon, and onion, paired with the delectable sweet basil dressing, creates a symphony of tastes that lingers on the palate and leaves me yearning for more. Though I initially had reservations about trying this recipe, I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed every single bite.
Undoubtedly, breaking down the cauliflower demands a bit of effort, but the end result is undeniably worth it. The perfectly balanced combination of ingredients makes this salad an exquisite treat for the taste buds. What’s truly impressive about this dish is its versatility – it can easily adapt to suit individual preferences. A touch of heat can be introduced by adding sliced jalapenos, while making it vegetarian-friendly is a breeze by simply omitting the bacon and incorporating ground spices for added depth of flavor.
This Broccoli Cauliflower Salad shines both as a delightful side dish and a satisfying light main course. No matter how it is served, it never fails to impress and please the crowd. So, I encourage you to seize the opportunity and give this amazing salad a try. Discover for yourself the fantastic blend of flavors that makes this dish an absolute delight. Once you experience its tantalizing taste, it will undoubtedly earn a special place in your culinary repertoire as it has in mine. Don’t hesitate any longer – embark on this delicious journey and savor the goodness of Broccoli Cauliflower Salad!