Keto Broccoli Cauliflower Salad

If you’re looking for a light and refreshing dish that’s both keto-friendly and bursting with flavor, this Keto Broccoli Cauliflower Salad is the one to try! It’s the perfect side dish to accompany any keto meal, and it’s packed with healthy veggies, a creamy dressing, and just the right amount of crunch. Whether you’re planning a family barbecue or meal prepping for the week, this salad is a fantastic choice for keeping things low-carb without sacrificing taste. It’s also incredibly versatile – you can even turn it into a main dish by adding some protein!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

What makes this Keto Broccoli Cauliflower Salad truly special is how it manages to be both refreshing and filling, all while keeping the carbs low. Both broccoli and cauliflower are packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making them great for your keto diet. Plus, the creamy dressing adds a rich texture without all the extra carbs found in traditional dressings. It’s the perfect blend of crunchy, creamy, and tangy, making it a salad that satisfies without ever feeling heavy. This recipe is easy to make, comes together quickly, and can be enjoyed by everyone—even those who aren’t following a keto lifestyle!

My Personal Experience

I first came across this salad at a summer gathering, and it was an instant hit. The combination of fresh broccoli and cauliflower with a creamy dressing was a perfect way to get in some veggies without compromising on flavor. I remember making it for the first time myself—what I loved most about it was how simple it was to put together, yet it felt like a special dish. It was just the right balance of flavors, and everyone in my family loved it. Now, it’s one of my go-to recipes for gatherings and even for meal prep during the week.

Required Equipment

Large Mixing Bowl

This is essential for mixing the broccoli, cauliflower, and other ingredients together. A large bowl ensures you have plenty of room to toss everything evenly without spilling.

Knife & Cutting Board

A sharp knife and cutting board are crucial to get your veggies chopped to the right size. Broccoli and cauliflower florets need to be cut into bite-sized pieces to make eating the salad easier.

Whisk

You’ll need a whisk to combine your creamy dressing. A whisk helps to create a smooth, well-blended dressing without any lumps.

Spoon or Tongs

Use a spoon or tongs to toss everything together once the dressing is added. It helps ensure the dressing coats every piece of the salad evenly.

Ingredients & Substitutions

• 2 cups broccoli florets: The broccoli adds crunch, flavor, and loads of nutrients. If you’re not a fan of broccoli, you can use more cauliflower as a substitute.
• 2 cups cauliflower florets: The cauliflower gives the salad a smooth texture and absorbs the dressing perfectly. If you want to add more variety, you could swap cauliflower for Brussels sprouts.
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese: This adds a creamy, cheesy bite. If you prefer a different cheese, sharp cheddar or mozzarella would work well.
• ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped: For a bit of tang, the red onion adds a mild but vibrant flavor. If you prefer a milder taste, you can opt for green onions instead.
• ½ cup mayonnaise: This is the base of your dressing, making it creamy and rich. If you’re not a fan of mayo, you can substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar: This gives the dressing a tangy kick. You can swap it with lemon juice for a different acidity.
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: This adds a slight zing to the dressing. If you don’t have Dijon, any mustard will work, but Dijon has a smoother flavor.
• Salt and pepper to taste: These are essential for bringing all the flavors together. You can also add a pinch of garlic powder for extra flavor.

How to Make Keto Broccoli Cauliflower Salad

1. Prepare the Vegetables: Start by washing the broccoli and cauliflower thoroughly. Cut them into bite-sized florets, making sure the pieces are small enough to eat easily. If you’re using raw cauliflower, you may want to blanch it for a few minutes to soften it.
2. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed—some people prefer a bit more tang, so don’t be afraid to tweak it!
3. Combine the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, toss the broccoli, cauliflower, and red onion together. Add the shredded cheddar cheese and mix it in.
4. Dress the Salad: Pour the dressing over the veggie mixture and gently toss until everything is evenly coated. Be sure not to rush this step—take your time to make sure the dressing gets into every crevice of the veggies.
5. Chill and Serve: For the best flavor, refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together. When you’re ready to serve, give it one last gentle toss and enjoy!

Tips for This Recipe

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad may lose a little crunch after sitting in the dressing overnight, but it will still taste delicious!
• Make Ahead: This salad is great for meal prepping! You can make it a day in advance, and the flavors will only get better. Just keep the dressing separate if you want to keep the veggies crisp.
• Adjust to Taste: If you prefer a sweeter salad, try adding a bit of stevia or a touch of low-carb sweetener to the dressing.

Optional Additions

• Bacon Crumbles: Add crispy bacon crumbles to take this salad to the next level! They’ll add a smoky, savory element that pairs perfectly with the creamy dressing.
• Nuts: For added crunch, you can toss in some sliced almonds or chopped pecans.
• Fresh Herbs: Fresh dill or parsley can be sprinkled on top for an herbaceous touch.

Serving Ideas

This Keto Broccoli Cauliflower Salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, such as chicken or steak. It’s also great alongside a keto-friendly burger or on its own for a light lunch. For a bigger meal, you can serve it with a side of roasted vegetables or a keto-friendly avocado salad.

Storage Recommendations

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop as it sits, but keep in mind that the veggies might get softer as they absorb the dressing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen broccoli and cauliflower? Yes! Frozen broccoli and cauliflower work well in this salad. Just make sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly to avoid extra moisture.

Can I add other vegetables? Absolutely! Feel free to add other keto-friendly veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or even avocado for extra creaminess.

Can I make this salad ahead of time? Yes! This salad actually tastes better the next day as the flavors have more time to combine. Just refrigerate it and give it a quick stir before serving.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

• Calories: 180
• Total Carbs: 8g
• Net Carbs: 5g
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 15g

I’m so excited to hear how this recipe turned out for you! 😊 Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram and Facebook for daily keto inspiration, tasty recipes, and all the support you need to crush your goals. Want to make your keto journey easier? Get a meal plan tailored to your unique needs and preferences, designed to keep you on track effortlessly. Start your personalized plan now!