Parmesan Vegetables
A vibrant and flavorful vegetable salad featuring broccoli, cauliflower, and onions, coated in a creamy Parmesan dressing and topped with crispy bacon and croutons. Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or as a refreshing side dish, this salad combines crunch, creaminess, and savory richness in every bite.
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh broccoli ⓘ
- 4 cups fresh cauliflower
- 1 large onion, sliced ⓘ
- 1/4 cup sugar ⓘ
- 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt ⓘ
- 1/2 teaspoon basil ⓘ
- 2 cups mayonnaise ⓘ
- 1 pound bacon, crumbled ⓘ
- 1 large head lettuce, bite-sized pieces ⓘ
- 2 cups seasoned croutons ⓘ
- 8 ounces sliced water chestnuts ⓘ
Instructions
- In a large bowl, break broccoli and cauliflower into bite-sized pieces.
- Add sliced onion to the bowl.
- In a small bowl, combine sugar, Parmesan cheese, salt, basil, and mayonnaise.
- Mix the dressing well until smooth.
- Toss the vegetables with the dressing until evenly coated.
- Refrigerate the salad overnight to allow flavors to meld.
- Just before serving, add crumbled bacon, seasoned croutons, and sliced water chestnuts.
- Toss lightly to combine all ingredients.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider substituting Greek yogurt for half of the mayonnaise. You can also use a mix of different cheeses, such as cheddar or feta, for a unique flavor twist. If you prefer, fresh herbs like dill or parsley can replace basil for a different taste. Ensure the vegetables are dry before dressing to avoid a watery salad.
Serving Suggestions
This Parmesan Vegetables salad is perfect as a standalone dish or as a side with grilled meats like Gold Coast Pork Chops or alongside a hearty main like Ham, Potato And Cheese Chowder. For an added crunch, consider pairing it with a warm bread roll or serve it with a light vinaigrette on the side for guests to add as desired.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad can be enjoyed cold, but if you prefer it warm, gently reheat it in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even tastier.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Parmesan Vegetables contains roughly 685 calories, with 10g protein, 34g carbohydrates, and 59g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (156% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (22% of the Daily Value), and protein (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1556mg per serving (68% 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 prepare this salad ahead of time?
Yes, this salad benefits from being made a day in advance. Allowing it to chill overnight helps the flavors meld beautifully. Just remember to add the bacon, croutons, and water chestnuts just before serving to maintain their texture.
What can I use instead of mayonnaise?
If you're looking for a healthier alternative, you can use Greek yogurt or a vegan mayo substitute. For a different flavor profile, consider mixing sour cream or even a light vinaigrette, though the texture will vary slightly.
Is there a way to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the crumbled bacon or replace it with a plant-based alternative like crispy chickpeas or tempeh bacon. This will keep the dish vegetarian while still adding a satisfying crunch.
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).