Broccoli Cauliflower Salad with Bacon, Cranberries & Creamy Dressing

This fresh and crunchy Broccoli Cauliflower Salad is loaded with crisp broccoli, tender cauliflower, smoky bacon, sweet dried cranberries, cheddar cheese, and sunflower seeds, all tossed in a rich, creamy homemade dressing. It’s the perfect make-ahead side dish for potlucks, BBQs, picnics, or family dinners.

Ingredients

For the Salad

4 cups broccoli florets, chopped
4 cups cauliflower florets, chopped
8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup dried cranberries
⅓ cup sunflower seeds
¼ cup red onion, finely diced
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)

For the Creamy Dressing

¾ cup mayonnaise
¼ cup sour cream
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
½ teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Wash and thoroughly dry the broccoli and cauliflower. Cut them into bite-sized florets.
Cook the bacon until crispy, then drain on paper towels and crumble.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the broccoli, cauliflower, bacon, cheddar cheese, dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, red onion, and parsley.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is evenly coated.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to blend.
Toss again just before serving and enjoy chilled.

Serving Suggestions

Grilled chicken
BBQ ribs
Burgers
Grilled steak
Roasted turkey
Picnic and potluck spreads

Tips

For the best crunch, don’t overdress the salad if making it a day ahead—reserve a little dressing to stir in before serving.
Toast the sunflower seeds for extra flavor.
Add chopped pecans or sliced almonds for additional crunch.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 8
Calories: Approximately 320 per serving