Dive into a bowl of freshness and flavor with this Creamy Broccoli, Cauliflower, Corn, and Bacon Salad. It combines the earthy tastes of broccoli and cauliflower with the sweetness of corn, the crunchiness of bacon, and the sharpness of cheddar, all tied together with a creamy dressing. Choose between a zesty Ranch dressing or a sweeter, honey-lemon alternative to dress this versatile salad to your liking. Here’s how to bring this delightful salad to your table.
Ingredients:
Salad Ingredients:
- 3 cups broccoli florets, finely chopped
- 3 cups cauliflower florets, finely chopped
- 2 cups carrots, finely sliced
- 15 oz sweet corn, drained
- ½ cup red onion, diced
- 10 slices bacon, cooked and chopped
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
Salad Dressing Option 1 (Ranch Dressing):
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup sour cream, kefir, or Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons dry Ranch mix (adjust to taste)
Salad Dressing Option 2 (Without Ranch):
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup sour cream, kefir, or Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- ¼ cup honey, softened or warmed
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Instructions:
- Prepare the Salad Base:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the finely chopped broccoli and cauliflower florets, sliced carrots, drained sweet corn, diced red onion, chopped cooked bacon, and shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Toss gently to mix all the ingredients.
- Choose and Prepare Your Dressing:
- For Ranch Dressing: In a smaller bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream (or kefir or Greek yogurt), and dry Ranch mix. Adjust the amount of Ranch mix according to your taste preference.
- For Honey-Lemon Dressing: In another bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream (or kefir or Greek yogurt), lemon juice, softened honey, and salt. Whisk until smooth and fully combined.
- Dress the Salad:
- Pour your chosen dressing over the salad mixture. Using a large spoon or salad tongs, toss the salad until all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Chill and Serve:
- Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together and the vegetables to slightly soften.
- Before serving, give the salad a quick toss to refresh the dressing. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
This Creamy Broccoli, Cauliflower, Corn, and Bacon Salad is not just a delight to the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes, with its vibrant colors and textures. Whether you’re looking for a hearty side dish or a light main course, this salad offers a perfect blend of freshness, crunch, and creamy indulgence. Enjoy this versatile salad at your next gathering, potluck, or as a nutritious addition to your meal rotation.