Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Festive Appearance: The vibrant green, red, and white colors make it a show-stopper for the holidays.
• Simple and Quick: With just a few steps, you have a salad ready in no time.
• Customizable: Add or substitute ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary needs.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: It tastes even better after chilling, so you can prepare it in advance.
• Crowd-Pleaser: The creamy dressing and crunchy veggies are a hit with kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 broccoli, chopped into florets
• 1 cauliflower, chopped into florets
• 1 red onion, thinly sliced
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• ½ cup shredded cheese (optional)

Dressing:

• 1 cup mayonnaise
• ½ cup sour cream
• 1 tbsp cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp sugar
• ½ tsp black pepper

Directions

1. Combine broccoli, cauliflower, red onion, and cherry tomatoes in a large mixing bowl.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, cider vinegar, sugar, and black pepper to make the dressing.
3. Pour the dressing over the veggies and toss well to coat evenly.
4. Cover the salad and chill it in the fridge for 1 hour before serving. This step allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
5. Serve cold and enjoy the festive crunch!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8, depending on portion sizes.
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Chill Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

• Add Protein: Include cooked bacon bits or diced grilled chicken for extra flavor.
• Switch the Veggies: Use baby spinach or kale for a leafy base, or add sliced bell peppers for additional crunch.
• Cheese Alternatives: Swap shredded cheese with crumbled feta or Parmesan for a different twist.
• Dressing Alternatives: Substitute the mayo and sour cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
• Make It Vegan: Use vegan mayonnaise and skip the cheese.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: This salad is best served cold and doesn’t require reheating. Toss it gently before serving to redistribute the dressing.

FAQs

1. Can I make this salad a day in advance?

Yes, this salad can be made a day ahead. Chill it overnight for even better flavor.

2. How can I make this salad healthier?

Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise and sour cream for a lighter dressing.

3. Can I use frozen vegetables?

Fresh vegetables are best for this salad, but you can use thawed frozen veggies in a pinch.

4. What other dressings work with this salad?

Try a tangy vinaigrette or ranch dressing for a different flavor profile.

5. Can I leave out the sugar in the dressing?

Yes, the sugar adds a touch of sweetness, but you can omit it or substitute it with honey or maple syrup.

6. Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, as long as all your ingredients are certified gluten-free, this salad is naturally gluten-free.

7. What cheese works best in this recipe?

Cheddar, Parmesan, or feta are great options, depending on your preference.

8. Can I add nuts to this salad?

Yes, toasted almonds, walnuts, or pecans add a delicious crunch.

9. How do I keep the broccoli and cauliflower fresh?

Store them in the refrigerator in a perforated bag or an airtight container until ready to use.

10. What can I serve with this salad?

It pairs well with roasted meats, baked fish, or other holiday side dishes like mashed potatoes or stuffing.

Conclusion

Christmas Salad is a delightful way to bring festive cheer to your holiday menu. Its vibrant colors, crunchy texture, and creamy dressing make it a standout dish that’s both easy to prepare and satisfying to eat. Whether you customize it with your favorite ingredients or keep it simple, this recipe is sure to impress your family and guests alike.

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