We all know salads can get a bad rap—often watery, bland, and about as exciting as a beige wall. But this loaded broccoli cauliflower salad? It’s crunchy, creamy, and brings the party to your plate. Think smoky bacon, sharp cheddar, and crisp veggies, all hugging each other in a tangy mayo dressing. And here’s the kicker—it’s totally low carb. Whether you’re chasing easy low carb recipes or simply craving something fresh with a satisfying crunch, this one checks all the boxes. I make it when I need a dish that won’t get sad and soggy at the picnic table. My kids (shockingly) love it. My husband tries to ‘meal prep’ it, but we both know he’s just sneaking forkfuls straight from the fridge. It fits into your rotation of low carb healthy recipes, works as a low carb meal, and has that nostalgic cookout vibe without the carb overload. If you’re into low carb food that feels like comfort food, this one’s a keeper. It’s the recipe low carb dreams are made of—and hey, if you’re on the hunt for low carb soup recipes, keep this one on standby as its crisp, creamy cousin.

1) Key Takeaways
2) Easy Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Salad Recipe
3) Ingredients for Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Salad
4) How to Make Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Salad
5) Tips for Making Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Salad
6) Making Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Salad Ahead of Time
7) Storing Leftover Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Salad
8) Try these Salad recipes next!
9) Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Salad
10) Nutrition

1) Key Takeaways

This salad is a great example of low carb recipes done right.
It’s loaded with cheese, bacon, and a creamy dressing that satisfies.
Prep ahead for busy weekdays or potlucks where you need a dish that holds up well.
All ingredients are easy to find and the method is totally beginner-friendly.

2) Easy Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Salad Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a low carb recipe that doesn’t feel like you’re chewing on cardboard, this is it. The crunch from the broccoli and cauliflower pairs so well with the creamy dressing. Throw in crispy bacon and cheddar and now you’re in salad heaven.

I used to bring this to family cookouts, thinking it’d be my “healthy side,” and it ended up getting more attention than the burgers. People love that it feels like comfort food but fits into their low carb meals plan. That’s a rare combo, right?

This is one of those easy low carb recipes that lets you hit your veggie goals without sacrificing flavor. It’s perfect for anyone chasing low carb healthy recipes that taste like something you’d actually want seconds of.

3) Ingredients for Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Salad

Cauliflower: Chop it into bite-sized pieces so you get a good mix in every bite. It’s a solid base for this salad and holds the dressing well.

Broccoli: Go with fresh, not frozen. The crunch is what makes this salad stand out. Again, small florets help the flavors spread evenly.

Red Onion: Thin slices go a long way. They bring a little bite that cuts through the creaminess without overpowering the other ingredients.

Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar is ideal here. Sharp cheddar gives the best contrast with the dressing and adds a richness that makes each forkful satisfying.

Mayonnaise: Use a good-quality mayo since it forms the bulk of the dressing. It helps bind everything together into a creamy finish.

Sour Cream: This adds some tang and keeps the dressing from being too heavy. The combo with mayo gives you balance.

Apple Cider Vinegar: Just a touch gives the salad a little zing. It lifts the flavors and cuts through the fat from the mayo and cheese.

Sugar Substitute: Swerve or monk fruit works fine. You need a bit of sweetness to mellow the vinegar and balance the dressing.

Salt and Pepper: Always season to taste. Start light and adjust once the salad chills and the flavors combine.

Bacon: Cook it crisp and crumble it up. Save a little for the top because presentation matters. Bacon makes everything better, and this recipe is no exception.

4) How to Make Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Salad

Step 1. Grab a big bowl and toss together the chopped broccoli, cauliflower, sliced red onion, and shredded cheddar. You want these coated evenly once the dressing hits.

Step 2. In a smaller bowl, whisk together the mayo, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, and your sweetener of choice. Mix until it’s smooth and creamy.

Step 3. Pour the dressing over the veggie mix and stir gently. Don’t rush this part. Take a minute and fold it in so that everything’s coated nicely.

Step 4. Add most of the crumbled bacon. Hold back a bit for topping later. It adds a nice texture when you sprinkle some fresh on top just before serving.

Step 5. Season with salt and pepper. Taste it and tweak it if needed. Sometimes I go back for a little extra pepper after it chills.

Step 6. Cover and chill for at least an hour. This isn’t just fridge time—it helps the veggies soak in the dressing and mellow out a bit.

Step 7. Top with that reserved bacon and serve cold. You might want to double the batch next time—it disappears fast.

5) Tips for Making Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Salad

Use fresh broccoli and cauliflower for the best crunch. Bagged florets work in a pinch but they can be a little too chunky or too soft. I like to trim mine down just a bit more.

Let the salad chill for at least an hour. The flavors need time to mingle. I’ve rushed it before, and it was still good, but after sitting? Way better.

Don’t skimp on the bacon. I’ve tried turkey bacon, and honestly, it just didn’t hit the same. If you’re treating yourself to low carb food that feels indulgent, real bacon is the move.

6) Making Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Salad Ahead of Time

This salad holds up well, which makes it ideal for meal prep. I usually make it a day before I need it. The veggies stay crisp and the dressing thickens a bit overnight.

If you’re bringing it to a gathering, keep the bacon separate until just before serving. That keeps the texture on point and prevents sogginess.

You can mix the dressing ahead and stash it in the fridge. Just give it a good stir before using. This makes your prep quick and stress-free when it’s go time.

7) Storing Leftover Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Salad

Leftovers keep well for up to 3 days. I store mine in an airtight container in the fridge. After that, the broccoli starts to lose its crunch, and the bacon softens.

If the salad tightens up, you can add a little extra mayo or sour cream to loosen it. It freshens it right back up without changing the flavor too much.

I’ve also packed it for lunch with a slice of grilled chicken on the side. It travels great and holds its own next to other low carb soup recipes or entrees.

8) Try these Salad recipes next!

9) Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Salad