Creamy Broccoli Cauliflower Salad

This Creamy Broccoli Cauliflower Salad is a delightful and refreshing side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Featuring crisp broccoli and cauliflower florets combined with Colby Jack cheese and red onion, this salad is coated in a rich, tangy dressing made with mayonnaise, sour cream, and a hint of red wine vinegar.

The addition of parsley and a touch of sugar adds a burst of flavor that complements the crunchiness of the vegetables. Chill it for an hour to let the flavors meld together, and you’ve got a creamy, satisfying salad that everyone will enjoy.

Creamy Broccoli Cauliflower Salad

Ingredients:

1 head of broccoli, cut into bite-sized pieces

1 head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized pieces

1 cup Colby Jack cheese, diced

½ small red onion, finely chopped

1 cup mayonnaise

½ cup sour cream

1 tablespoon red wine vinegar

2 teaspoons sugar (to taste)

1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes

½ teaspoon sea salt (to taste)

½ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

Combine the Vegetables: In a large bowl, mix together the chopped broccoli, cauliflower, diced cheese, and chopped red onion.

Prepare the Dressing: In a separate small bowl, blend the mayonnaise, sour cream, and red wine vinegar until smooth.

Adjust the Sweetness: Stir in the sugar, tasting and adjusting the amount as necessary.

Season the Dressing: Add the dried parsley flakes, sea salt, and black pepper to the dressing. Mix until well combined.

Assemble the Salad: Pour the prepared dressing over the vegetable mixture and toss everything together until the ingredients are evenly coated.

Chill Before Serving: Cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator for at least one hour to allow the flavors to meld before serving.

Notes:

Vegetable Preparation: Ensure the broccoli and cauliflower are chopped into bite-sized pieces for easy eating and better coating with the dressing.

Cheese Options: Colby Jack cheese adds a mild, creamy flavor, but you can substitute it with other cheeses like cheddar or Swiss if preferred.

Onion Flavor: Red onion provides a sweet and mild sharpness. If you prefer a milder onion flavor, consider soaking the chopped onion in cold water for 10-15 minutes before adding it to the salad.

Dressing Consistency: Adjust the amount of sour cream and mayonnaise to achieve your desired dressing thickness. For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.

Sweetness Adjustment: The sugar in the dressing balances the tanginess of the vinegar. Start with 2 teaspoons and adjust according to your taste preferences.

Chill Time: Refrigerate the salad for at least one hour to allow the flavors to blend. This also helps the dressing thicken and adhere better to the vegetables.

Garnishing: For added texture and flavor, consider sprinkling some toasted nuts or seeds on top before serving.

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Dietary Adjustments: For a lower-calorie version, use light mayonnaise and sour cream. To make it a dairy-free option, substitute with dairy-free alternatives.

Make-Ahead: This salad can be prepared a day in advance. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Serving Suggestions: This salad pairs well with grilled meats, sandwiches, or as part of a potluck spread. It also makes a great addition to holiday meals.

Nutrition Information:

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute Colby Jack cheese with other cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, or a cheese blend based on your preference.

Can I use a different type of vinegar?

Yes, you can substitute red wine vinegar with apple cider vinegar, white wine vinegar, or lemon juice for a different flavor.

How long can I keep this salad in the refrigerator?

The salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Ensure it’s kept in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the salad up to a day in advance.

It actually tastes better after the flavors have had time to meld together in the refrigerator.

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?

Yes, Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute for sour cream for a lighter version of the salad.

Is it possible to make this salad without mayonnaise?

Yes, you can use a mixture of Greek yogurt or a dairy-free alternative to replace the mayonnaise for a healthier or vegan option.

What if I don’t like cauliflower?

You can substitute cauliflower with additional broccoli or other vegetables like diced bell peppers or carrots.

Can I add protein to this salad?

Yes, you can add cooked chicken, bacon bits, or chickpeas to make the salad more filling and add extra protein.

How do I adjust the sweetness of the salad?

You can adjust the sugar amount in the dressing to your taste.

Start with the recommended amount and add more if desired.

Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried parsley?

Yes, you can use fresh parsley or other herbs like dill or chives in place of dried parsley for a fresher taste.

Use about three times the amount of fresh herbs as the dried ones.