Oh, let me tell you about Amish broccoli cauliflower salad! This dish is a delightful and refreshing mix of crunchy broccoli and cauliflower, all dressed up in a creamy sauce that’s sure to make your taste buds dance! I remember the first time I had this salad at a family picnic. My Aunt Martha always made it, and it was the first thing to disappear from the table. The combination of the crisp veggies with the savory bacon bits and the tangy dressing is just heavenly. You can’t help but go back for seconds—or thirds! Plus, it’s such a breeze to whip up. You just chop, mix, and chill! It’s the perfect side dish for barbecues, potlucks, or even just a cozy dinner at home. I love how it can be prepared ahead of time too, making it even easier to enjoy. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked just like I was all those years ago!
Ingredients List
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cups cauliflower florets
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup bacon bits
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion
How to Prepare Amish Broccoli Cauliflower Salad
Getting your hands on this delightful salad is as easy as pie, and I’m here to guide you through each simple step! Just take your time, and soon you’ll have a beautiful bowl of salad ready to chill and enjoy. Let’s dive in!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Start by rinsing your broccoli and cauliflower florets under cold water. Make sure to pat them dry gently with a clean towel. This helps remove any excess moisture and keeps your salad fresh.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the 2 cups of broccoli florets and 2 cups of cauliflower florets. Give them a little toss to mix them up nicely; you want them well combined.
- Now, let’s whip up that creamy dressing! In a separate bowl, mix together 1 cup of mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar, and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Stir until everything is smooth and well blended. It should smell delightful!
- Pour this luscious dressing over the broccoli and cauliflower mix. Make sure to coat all the veggies evenly; you want every bite to be bursting with flavor!
- Add in 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup of bacon bits, and 1/4 cup of chopped red onion to the bowl. These ingredients add wonderful texture and flavor to your salad. Gently toss everything together until it’s all well coated with that creamy goodness.
- Once you’re satisfied with how it looks, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and pop it in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 30 minutes. This step is essential as it allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making each bite even more delicious!
And there you have it! A simple, tasty, and refreshing Amish broccoli cauliflower salad ready to brighten up any meal. Enjoy every crunchy, creamy bite!
Tips for Success
To make your Amish broccoli cauliflower salad truly shine, here are a few handy tips! First, don’t skip the chilling step—it’s crucial for letting those flavors meld together. If you can, let it chill for an hour or even longer for a more robust taste!
Also, feel free to get creative! If you want to add a little crunch, toss in some sunflower seeds or chopped nuts. They’ll give your salad a delightful texture. And if you’re not a fan of mayonnaise, swapping it out for Greek yogurt is a great way to lighten it up without sacrificing creaminess.
Lastly, when preparing your veggies, make sure they’re cut into uniform sizes for even mixing and presentation. Trust me, a little attention to detail goes a long way. Enjoy crafting this lovely salad!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional information for a serving of Amish broccoli cauliflower salad. Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, but this should give you a helpful guideline!
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 210
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
- Sodium: 350mg
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 4g
This salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients from the fresh veggies. Enjoy it as a side dish, and you’ll be getting a nice boost of vitamins and minerals!
Ingredient Notes/Substitutions
One of the beautiful things about Amish broccoli cauliflower salad is its versatility! If you’re looking to make some adjustments for dietary needs, I’ve got you covered. For a lighter option, you can easily swap out the mayonnaise for Greek yogurt. It gives you that creamy texture while cutting down on calories and fat. If you’re watching your sodium or fat intake, consider using turkey bacon instead of traditional bacon bits; it still adds that savory crunch without the extra grease.
Feel free to get creative with the veggies too! You can toss in some chopped bell peppers, carrots, or even some sweet peas for a pop of color and flavor. Just remember, the salad is all about making it your own while keeping it deliciously refreshing. Enjoy experimenting with what you have on hand!
FAQ Section
Can I make Amish broccoli cauliflower salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, making it a day ahead can enhance the flavors as they meld together while chilling. Just store it in the refrigerator, and it’ll be ready to serve when you are!
Can I use frozen broccoli and cauliflower?
While fresh veggies give the best crunch and flavor, you can use frozen broccoli and cauliflower if that’s what you have on hand. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before mixing to avoid excess moisture in your salad.
What can I substitute for bacon bits?
If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, you can use crispy roasted chickpeas or sunflower seeds for that crunchy texture. They’ll add a lovely flavor without the bacon!
Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes! The ingredients in Amish broccoli cauliflower salad are naturally gluten-free, so you can enjoy it without worry. Just double-check your mayonnaise and any other packaged ingredients to ensure they’re gluten-free.
How long does this salad last in the fridge?
When stored in an airtight container, your Amish broccoli cauliflower salad can stay fresh for about 3 to 5 days in the refrigerator. Just give it a little stir before serving it again to refresh the dressing!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s a refreshing and crunchy salad, perfect for warm days or as a delightful side dish.
- Quick and easy to prepare, you can have it ready in just 15 minutes (plus chilling time!)
- Versatile ingredients mean you can customize it to suit your taste or dietary needs.
- A crowd-pleaser at picnics, barbecues, and family gatherings—everyone will be asking for the recipe!
- Made with wholesome vegetables, it’s a great way to sneak in some extra nutrition.
- Perfect for meal prep; it keeps well in the fridge for several days for easy lunches or snacks.
- Deliciously creamy dressing brings all the flavors together, making each bite a delight.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to enjoying your Amish broccoli cauliflower salad, the possibilities are endless! This salad makes a fantastic side dish that pairs beautifully with grilled meats. Think about serving it alongside juicy barbecued chicken or tender steaks. The creamy, crunchy salad complements the savory flavors perfectly!
If you’re in the mood for something lighter, try it with a simple baked fish or a hearty vegetable quiche. It’s also a delightful addition to any picnic spread, so pack it up with some sandwiches or wraps for a lovely outdoor meal.
For a complete vegetarian feast, serve it alongside a warm, crusty bread and a fresh fruit platter. The sweetness of the fruit balances out the savory salad beautifully. Whichever way you decide to enjoy it, your Amish broccoli cauliflower salad is sure to be a hit!
Print
Amish Broccoli Cauliflower Salad: 5 Comforting Ingredients
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A refreshing and crunchy salad featuring broccoli and cauliflower with a creamy dressing.
Ingredients
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cups cauliflower florets
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup bacon bits
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine broccoli and cauliflower florets.
- In a separate bowl, mix mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and sugar until smooth.
- Pour the dressing over the broccoli and cauliflower.
- Add cheddar cheese, bacon bits, and red onion to the bowl.
- Toss everything together until well coated.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise for a lighter option.
- Use turkey bacon instead of traditional bacon for a healthier choice.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: amish broccoli cauliflower salad, broccoli salad, cauliflower salad
