Crunchy Broccoli-Cauliflower Toss
A crisp, flavorful vegetable salad with bacon and cheddar, coated in a sweet and tangy dressing, perfect for casual gatherings or as a refreshing side dish.
Ingredients
- 1 small head cauliflower, broken into flowerets ⓘ
- 1 medium head broccoli, broken into flowerets ⓘ
- 2 slices bacon, fried and drained, broken into very small pieces ⓘ
- 3/4 cup shredded low-fat cheddar cheese ⓘ
- 1/2 cup low-fat Miracle Whip ⓘ
- 1/4 cup sugar ⓘ
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar or red wine vinegar
Instructions
- Combine cauliflower, broccoli, bacon, and shredded cheddar cheese in a bowl and set aside.
- In a small bowl, mix Miracle Whip, sugar, and vinegar until smooth.
- Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture.
- Mix thoroughly to coat all ingredients evenly.
- Chill in the refrigerator for about an hour before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added crunch, consider tossing in some sunflower seeds or sliced almonds. If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute the Miracle Whip with Greek yogurt. You can also experiment with different cheeses, such as feta or gouda, for a unique flavor twist. For a vegetarian version, simply omit the bacon and add some diced bell peppers instead.
Serving Suggestions
This Crunchy Broccoli-Cauliflower Toss makes a delightful side dish for grilled meats and pairs beautifully with Faith'S Ham Strata. Serve it alongside a light salad or as part of a buffet spread. It also complements summer picnics and barbecues perfectly, so consider bringing it to your next outdoor gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even tastier. To reheat, you can serve it cold straight from the fridge or let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving again. Avoid microwaving to preserve the crunch.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crunchy Broccoli-Cauliflower Toss contains roughly 301 calories, with 15g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (30% of the Daily Value) and calcium (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 742mg per serving (32% of the Daily Value).
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 dish ahead of time?
Yes, this salad can be prepared a day in advance. Just mix the dressing separately and combine it with the vegetables right before serving to keep them crunchy. Chilling overnight allows the flavors to deepen, enhancing the overall taste.
What can I use instead of bacon?
If you're looking for a vegetarian option, you can replace the bacon with smoked paprika or liquid smoke for a similar flavor. Alternatively, crispy chickpeas or roasted nuts can add a satisfying crunch without the meat.
Is it possible to use frozen vegetables?
While fresh vegetables provide the best texture, you can use thawed frozen cauliflower and broccoli. Make sure to drain them well to avoid excess moisture, which can make the salad soggy. Fresh veggies will yield the best results.
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).