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Broccoli Cauliflower Salad

Broccoli Cauliflower Salad with Crispy Bacon and Sweet Cranberries

A vibrant Broccoli Cauliflower Salad featuring crispy bacon and sweet cranberries, perfect for summer BBQs and potlucks.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 8 oz Bacon Adds a savory, crispy texture; substitute with turkey bacon for a lighter option.
  • 3 cups Cauliflower Raw, small florets; can be replaced by extra broccoli for more intensity.
  • 3 cups Broccoli Raw, small florets; adds crispness and vibrant color.
  • 1/2 medium Red Onion Finely chopped; can use green onions for a milder taste.
  • 1 cup Mild Cheddar Grated; use cubed cheese for a different texture or omit for dairy-free.
  • 1/4 cup Sunflower Seeds Offers crunch and nutty flavor; substitute with sliced almonds if desired.
  • 1/3 cup Craisins Dried cranberries; raisins or dried cherries work well as alternatives.
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup Mayonnaise Forms the creamy base; Greek yogurt can lighten it up for a tangy twist.
  • 1/3 cup Granulated Sugar Balances the tang of the dressing; honey can be used as a natural substitute.
  • 1/4 cup Distilled White Vinegar Adds acidity and tang; apple cider vinegar offers a different flavor profile.

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • mixing bowl
  • whisk
  • spatula

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook for about 8-10 minutes until it’s crispy and browned. Transfer the bacon onto a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess fat and cool.
  2. While the bacon cools, wash and cut the broccoli and cauliflower into small, bite-sized florets. Finely chop the red onion and set aside in a large mixing bowl.
  3. In the large mixing bowl, add the chopped red onion, grated mild cheddar, sunflower seeds, Craisins, and the cooled crispy bacon. Gently toss the ingredients to ensure even distribution.
  4. In a separate bowl, combine 1 cup of mayonnaise, 1/3 cup of granulated sugar, and 1/4 cup of distilled white vinegar. Whisk the ingredients smoothly until you achieve a creamy dressing.
  5. Pour the prepared dressing over the salad mixture. Using a spatula, gently fold the dressing into the salad, ensuring every piece is coated.
  6. You can serve the salad immediately or cover it and refrigerate for up to 2 hours to enhance the flavor. Keep the dressing separate until serving for optimal freshness.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 18gProtein: 10gFat: 26gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 3gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 45mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

Prepare salad ingredients in advance for easier assembly. Cool bacon on a paper towel to keep crisp, and taste test seasoning before serving.

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