Easy Broccoli Cauliflower Salad
A crisp, colorful broccoli and cauliflower salad with creamy homemade dressing, mild cheese, and a hint of sweetness—fiber-rich, nutrient-packed, and perfect for potlucks, family dinners, or meal prep.
Equipment
- Large Mixing Bowl
- 1 Small Mixing Bowl
- 1 Sharp chef’s knife
- 1 cutting board
- (1 set) Measuring Spoons and Cups (1 set)
Ingredients
- 1 head broccoli chopped into bite-sized florets
- 1 head cauliflower chopped into bite-sized florets
- 1 cup Colby Jack cheese cubed
- ½ small red onion chopped
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes
- ½ teaspoon sea salt to taste
- ½ teaspoon black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables: Wash the broccoli and cauliflower thoroughly under cold water. Cut each into bite-sized florets, ensuring uniform pieces for even texture and presentation. Chop the red onion finely and set aside, keeping all vegetables ready for mixing.
- Cube the Cheese: Cut the Colby Jack cheese into small, even cubes. This allows the cheese to mix evenly throughout the salad and provides small bursts of creamy flavor in every bite.
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the chopped broccoli, cauliflower, cubed cheese, and red onion. Gently toss to distribute the ingredients evenly, preparing the base for the creamy dressing.
- Make the Dressing: In a small mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, and red wine vinegar until smooth and creamy. Add sugar gradually, adjusting to taste for the desired sweetness.
- Season the Dressing: Sprinkle in dried parsley flakes, sea salt, and black pepper. Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients, ensuring a balanced flavor that will coat the vegetables evenly.
- Dress the Salad: Pour the prepared dressing over the vegetable and cheese mixture. Use a large spoon or spatula to gently toss the salad, making sure every piece is coated with the creamy dressing.
- Chill and Serve: Cover the salad with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least one hour. This resting time allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the taste and giving the salad a refreshing, well-balanced flavor. Serve cold for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- For the best flavor, use fresh, crisp broccoli and cauliflower.
- Adjust sugar in the dressing according to your preference or skip entirely for a lower-sugar version.
- Chop vegetables and cheese evenly to ensure a consistent texture throughout the salad.
- Allow at least one hour of chilling to let flavors meld and improve overall taste.
- This salad can be made a day in advance for convenience and better flavor integration.
- Store covered in the refrigerator to maintain freshness for up to 4 days.