Broccoli 'N' Cauliflower Salad
A vibrant and flavorful salad featuring fresh broccoli, cauliflower, mushrooms, and onions, dressed in a tangy vinaigrette with Italian seasoning, perfect for light meals or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the cauliflower, broccoli, mushrooms, purple onion, and celery in a large bowl; set aside.
- In a separate bowl, mix vegetable oil, white wine vinegar, sugar, Italian seasoning, dry mustard, and salt; stir well.
- Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss gently to coat.
- Cover and chill for 3 hours, stirring occasionally.
- Serve with a slotted spoon over lettuce if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider adding chopped bell peppers or carrots for color and crunch. If you're looking for a lighter dressing, you can substitute plain yogurt for some or all of the vegetable oil. For a vegan version, ensure all ingredients are plant-based, such as using agave instead of sugar. This salad can be a great side to accompany dishes like 'Baked' Little New Red Potatoes.
Serving Suggestions
This salad is best served chilled and can be placed on a bed of lettuce for a beautiful presentation. It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or as a refreshing side for summer barbecues. Consider serving it alongside dishes like Extraordinary Good Pot Roast for a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, enhancing the taste. For best results, do not freeze, as the vegetables may become mushy. If desired, you can re-toss the salad with a little extra dressing before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli 'N' Cauliflower Salad contains roughly 21 calories, with 1g protein, 3g carbohydrates, and 1g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare this salad a day in advance?
Yes, you can prepare this salad a day ahead of time. In fact, allowing it to sit overnight in the refrigerator can enhance the flavors. Just mix it well before serving to redistribute the dressing and ensure even coating of the vegetables.
What other vegetables can I add to this salad?
You can customize this salad with a variety of vegetables. Consider adding cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or even shredded carrots for extra color and nutrients. Just make sure to adjust the dressing quantities according to the volume of vegetables added.
Is there a way to make this salad spicier?
To add some heat, consider mixing in sliced jalapeños or a dash of red pepper flakes to the dressing. You could also incorporate diced spicy pickles or serve it alongside a spicy dipping sauce for those who enjoy a kick.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).