Cauliflower And Broccoli Crunch
A crunchy, flavorful vegetable salad featuring cauliflower and broccoli, coated in a creamy mayonnaise-based dressing, perfect for gatherings or as a refreshing side dish.
Ingredients
- 1 head cauliflower, broken into florets ⓘ
- 1 lb. broccoli, broken into florets ⓘ
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped ⓘ
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise ⓘ
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar ⓘ
- 3 tablespoons evaporated milk ⓘ
- 1 teaspoon vinegar ⓘ
- 1/2 teaspoon salt ⓘ
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper ⓘ
- bacon bits (if desired) ⓘ
- grated cheese (if desired) ⓘ
Instructions
- Combine cauliflower florets, broccoli florets, chopped onion, grated cheese, and bacon bits in a large bowl and toss well.
- In a separate bowl, mix mayonnaise, granulated sugar, evaporated milk, vinegar, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Pour the dressing over the vegetable mixture and toss to coat evenly.
- Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier dressing, consider adding a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt. If you're looking for a lighter option, swap out the mayonnaise for a yogurt-based dressing. You can also customize the veggies by adding bell peppers or carrots for more crunch. If you're short on time, use pre-chopped cauliflower and broccoli florets.
Serving Suggestions
This crunchy salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish, making it a great side for a summer barbecue. You can also serve it alongside sandwiches like Poppy Seed Ham Rolls for a delightful lunch. For extra flavor, sprinkle some toasted nuts on top before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even tastier. If you prefer a warm dish, gently reheat in the microwave, but be careful not to overheat, as the vegetables can become mushy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cauliflower And Broccoli Crunch contains roughly 136 calories, with 3g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (37% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, this salad is perfect for making ahead. It's best to let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, but you can prepare it a day in advance. Just keep it covered to maintain freshness.
What other vegetables can I add?
Feel free to get creative! You can add diced bell peppers, shredded carrots, or even peas for a pop of color and flavor. Just ensure they complement the crunch of the broccoli and cauliflower.
Is there a way to make this dish vegan?
Certainly! Substitute the mayonnaise with a vegan mayo or a tahini dressing, and omit the bacon bits or use a plant-based alternative. The dish will still be delicious and satisfying without the animal products.
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).