Cauliflower & Broccoli Salad with Bacon and Cheese – A Creamy and Flavorful Classic
Introduction
When you think of salads, you probably imagine something light, green, and quick. But not all salads are the same. Some are hearty, creamy, and filling enough to serve as the star of the table. One of the most popular and beloved versions is the Cauliflower and Broccoli Salad with Bacon and Cheese.
This salad perfectly balances the crunch of fresh broccoli and cauliflower, the smoky saltiness of bacon, and the richness of shredded cheese. When tossed in a creamy dressing made with mayonnaise, sour cream, and a touch of sugar, the result is a dish that’s both refreshing and indulgent. It’s a salad that can be served at barbecues, family gatherings, potlucks, or even as a make-ahead lunch.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 1 head of fresh broccoli, washed and chopped into small florets
- 1 head of fresh cauliflower, washed and chopped into small florets
- ½ pound of bacon, cooked until crispy and crumbled (about 225 g)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar is a classic choice, but mozzarella or a cheese blend also works well)
For the Dressing:
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup sour cream
- ¼ to ½ cup sugar (adjust to taste – less for tangier, more for sweetness)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Preparation
1. Prepare the Vegetables
- Wash the broccoli and cauliflower thoroughly under cold running water.
- Chop into small, bite-sized florets. Keeping them uniform in size makes the salad more attractive and easier to eat.
- You can keep the vegetables raw for maximum crunch, or lightly blanch them in salted boiling water for 2–3 minutes, then immediately shock them in ice water to keep them crisp and colorful.
2. Cook the Bacon
- In a skillet over medium heat, fry the bacon until it turns golden and crispy.
- Drain on paper towels to remove excess grease.
- Crumble the bacon into small pieces.
3. Make the Creamy Dressing
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise and sour cream until smooth.
- Add sugar gradually and stir until dissolved.
- Season with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper. Taste and adjust the balance – the dressing should be creamy, slightly sweet, and savory.
4. Assemble the Salad
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, cauliflower, crumbled bacon, and shredded cheese.
- Pour the dressing over the mixture and gently toss until everything is evenly coated.
5. Chill and Serve
- Cover the salad with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. This step allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Before serving, top with a little extra bacon or cheese for garnish.
Tips and Variations
- Add crunch: Toss in sunflower seeds, sliced almonds, or roasted pecans.
- Add freshness: A handful of chopped red onions or green onions brightens the flavors.
- Healthier swap: Use light mayo, Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, and honey instead of sugar.
- Meal prep: This salad keeps well in the fridge for 2–3 days, making it perfect for weekly lunches.
Nutrition (per serving, estimated)
- Calories: 320–350
- Protein: 12 g
- Fat: 26 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 3 g
Conclusion
This Cauliflower and Broccoli Salad with Bacon and Cheese is proof that salads can be anything but boring. With its crisp vegetables, smoky bacon, rich cheese, and creamy dressing, it’s a dish that everyone will ask for again and again. Whether you serve it at a backyard BBQ, bring it to a potluck, or enjoy it as a quick meal at home, this recipe is sure to become one of your go-to favorites.