Classic Amish Broccoli Cauliflower Salad: Creamy, Crunchy, and Perfect for Any Gathering

Discover the delightful blend of flavors and textures in this cherished Amish Broccoli Cauliflower Salad. More than just a simple side dish, this recipe brings together fresh, crisp broccoli and cauliflower florets with the savory crunch of cashews, the sweetness of raisins, and the irresistible saltiness of bacon. All these wonderful ingredients are then generously coated in a tangy, sweet, and incredibly creamy homemade dressing. It’s a true old-fashioned country favorite that has stood the test of time, making it an indispensable addition to any potluck, picnic, or backyard barbecue.

If you’re looking for a dish that offers a unique combination of sweet and savory notes, along with a satisfying creamy-crunchy contrast, this Amish Broccoli Salad is your answer. It’s not just a salad; it’s a culinary experience that delights the palate and leaves a lasting impression. What makes this particular recipe so special is its incredible versatility and ease of preparation. You can whip it up ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully, making it an ideal choice for busy hosts or anyone wanting to prepare a delicious meal without last-minute stress. Its robust nature means it holds up wonderfully, even when served outdoors, cementing its status as the perfect summer salad.

A spoonful of creamy Amish Broccoli Cauliflower salad, highlighting its rich texture and colorful ingredients.

Why This Amish Broccoli Cauliflower Salad is a Timeless Favorite

Imagine this: you’ve been invited to a barbecue, and you want to bring something memorable—something that stands out from the usual potato or pasta salads. This Amish Broccoli Salad recipe is an excellent choice! Its rich history within country cooking traditions speaks volumes about its enduring appeal. The harmonious blend of fresh vegetables, salty bacon, sweet raisins, and crunchy cashews, all enveloped in that signature sweet-tangy dressing, creates a flavor profile that is both comforting and exciting. It’s a dish that evokes a sense of nostalgia for simpler times and hearty, home-cooked meals.

This salad truly has it all: the refreshing crispness of raw vegetables, the satisfying chewiness of dried fruit, the delightful crunch of nuts, and the savory kick of bacon, all brought together by a dressing that perfectly balances sweetness and acidity. It’s this intricate balance of elements that makes it so addictive and universally loved. I fondly recall always ordering this specific salad at my favorite Amish restaurant, much to the amusement of my children. Their playful teasing about my excitement for a salad only further proves how truly special and unforgettable this particular recipe is.

The Goodness of Broccoli and Cauliflower

At the heart of this salad are two incredibly nutritious and versatile vegetables: broccoli and cauliflower. Both are cruciferous powerhouses, packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Broccoli is well-known for its high content of Vitamin C and K, as well as fiber, which supports digestive health. Cauliflower, equally impressive, provides a good source of Vitamin C, K, and B vitamins, alongside a unique texture that absorbs flavors beautifully without becoming soggy. When combined, these two vegetables offer a complementary set of nutrients and a fantastic textural contrast that forms the perfect base for our rich dressing.

Using both broccoli and cauliflower in this salad isn’t just about nutrition; it’s also about creating a more dynamic eating experience. The slight bitterness of raw broccoli is beautifully mellowed by the milder, almost nutty flavor of cauliflower. Furthermore, the cauliflower’s firmer texture means it won’t soak up too much dressing, helping the salad maintain its delightful crunch even after being dressed. This thoughtful combination is what elevates this salad from good to truly exceptional.

If you love simple and old-fashioned country recipes, here are more to try!

For those who appreciate the charm and heartwarming flavors of classic country cooking, here are a few more recipes that promise to deliver comfort and deliciousness, reminiscent of simpler times and family gatherings:

Old Fashioned Kidney Bean Salad: A hearty and flavorful salad, perfect for any meal.
Apple Coleslaw: A crisp and refreshing take on a classic, with a sweet and tangy poppy seed dressing.
Pimento Cheese Spread: A Southern staple that’s creamy, cheesy, and utterly irresistible.
Homestyle Egg Salad: Simple, satisfying, and incredibly delicious, just like grandma used to make.

What do you need to make this recipe?

Crafting this incredible Amish Broccoli Cauliflower Salad requires a selection of fresh, high-quality ingredients, each playing a crucial role in achieving its signature taste and texture. Below is a detailed look at what you’ll need and some tips for selection and preparation.

The vibrant ingredients needed to prepare the Amish Broccoli Cauliflower salad, including fresh broccoli and cauliflower, crispy bacon, sweet golden raisins, crunchy cashews, and the key components for the creamy dressing.

Broccoli: When choosing broccoli, look for firm, tightly packed florets with a deep green color. Avoid any yellowing or soft spots. While you could make this salad solely with broccoli, the combination of broccoli and cauliflower provides a more interesting texture and flavor profile. The smaller you chop the florets, the better they will integrate into the salad and absorb the dressing.
Cauliflower: Similar to broccoli, select cauliflower with firm, white florets and no discolored spots. Cauliflower adds a milder flavor and a crisp texture that complements the broccoli beautifully. Its slightly less porous nature helps it retain its crunch longer, preventing the salad from becoming overly soft.
Cashews: Cashews contribute a wonderful buttery crunch and a delicate flavor that pairs perfectly with the other ingredients. Opt for lightly salted cashew pieces for an extra layer of flavor. If nut allergies are a concern for you or your guests, don’t worry! You can easily substitute 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese for a savory twist, or use sunflower seeds for a similar crunch without the nuts. Both alternatives work exceptionally well.
Raisins: These tiny bursts of sweetness are essential for balancing the tangy dressing and savory bacon. While any color of raisins is suitable, golden raisins are often preferred for their slightly more delicate flavor and vibrant color. For a different tart-sweet dynamic, craisins (dried cranberries) also make an excellent substitute.
Bacon: The smoky, salty flavor and crispy texture of crumbled bacon are non-negotiable for this salad. It adds a crucial savory depth that truly makes the dish shine. Cook your bacon until it’s perfectly crisp, then crumble it into small pieces.
Red Onion: Finely chopped red onion provides a sharp, zesty kick that cuts through the richness of the dressing and other ingredients. Its vibrant purple color also adds a beautiful visual appeal. If you find raw red onion too strong, you can soak the chopped onion in cold water for about 10-15 minutes, then drain thoroughly, to mellow its flavor.

For the dressing:

The homemade dressing is the creamy, tangy heart of this Amish Broccoli Cauliflower Salad. Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating its signature sweet and sour profile.

Mayo: No Substitutions! Mayo is not miracle whip. Mayo. This is crucial. Real mayonnaise provides the rich, creamy base that holds the dressing together and coats the vegetables beautifully. Its subtle tanginess is key. Miracle Whip has a sweeter, more processed flavor and a different consistency that won’t yield the authentic taste of this classic salad. Stick to a good quality, full-fat mayonnaise for the best results.
Sour cream: Sour cream adds another layer of creamy texture and a delightful tanginess that complements the mayonnaise. It helps to lighten the dressing slightly while adding depth. If you’re looking for a healthier alternative or want to boost the protein content, Greek yogurt (plain, unsweetened) makes a fantastic substitution, offering a similar tang and rich texture.
Granulated sugar: This ingredient is vital for balancing the acidity of the vinegar and sour cream, contributing the “sweet” component of the salad’s signature sweet-and-sour profile. You can adjust the amount slightly to your preference, but a little sweetness is essential for that classic Amish flavor.
Apple Cider Vinegar: This is where the dressing gets its characteristic tang and a subtle fruity note. Apple cider vinegar enhances the freshness of the vegetables and brightens the overall flavor of the salad. If you don’t have apple cider vinegar on hand, regular white vinegar can be used as a suitable alternative, though it will impart a slightly sharper taste.

Step by step instructions:

Creating this delightful Amish Broccoli Cauliflower Salad is incredibly straightforward. Follow these simple steps for a perfect batch every time.

A large white bowl filled with precisely chopped broccoli, cashews, cauliflower, golden raisins, and red onions, ready for the dressing.

Step 1. Prepare your fresh vegetables and mix-ins. Begin by washing your broccoli and cauliflower thoroughly. Chop both into bite-sized florets, ensuring they are uniform in size for consistent texture. Finely chop your red onion. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, cauliflower, cashews, golden raisins, and red onion. Give them a gentle toss to distribute evenly.

A close-up shot of vinegar, sour cream, granulated sugar, and mayonnaise being whisked together in a bowl to create the creamy dressing.

Step 2. Prepare the creamy, tangy dressing. In a separate medium-sized bowl or container, combine all the dressing ingredients: mayonnaise, sour cream, granulated sugar, and apple cider vinegar. Whisk them together thoroughly until the dressing is smooth, creamy, and all the sugar has dissolved. Taste and adjust for sweetness or tanginess if desired.

The rich, creamy dressing is poured over the colorful mix of vegetables, nuts, and raisins in a large bowl, ready to be combined.

Step 3. Combine the salad components. Pour the freshly whisked dressing over the bowl of combined vegetables, cashews, and raisins. Using a large spoon or spatula, mix everything together gently but thoroughly, ensuring all the florets and mix-ins are evenly coated with the creamy dressing. Make sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl to incorporate all ingredients.

Crispy crumbled bacon being carefully stirred into the prepared Amish Broccoli Cauliflower Salad, just before it's served.

Step 4. Add the bacon and serve. If you haven’t already, fry the bacon until crispy, then crumble it into small pieces. For best results and to maintain maximum crispiness, stir the crumbled bacon into the salad just before you are ready to serve. This prevents the bacon from becoming soggy. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Amish Broccoli Cauliflower Salad

Amish Broccoli and Cauliflower Salad perfectly combines fresh, crisp veggies with a homemade sweet and tangy dressing. The addition of crunchy cashews, sweet raisins, and savory bacon takes this classic side dish to an entirely new level! It’s the ultimate make-ahead salad, ideal for any backyard barbecue, picnic, or family gathering.

5 from 2 votes

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Prep Time:

20 minutes

Total Time:

20 minutes

Servings:

8
-10

Calories:

339
kcal

Author:
Amy D

Ingredients

4
cups
broccoli florets
(chopped bite size)
4
cups
cauliflower florets
(chopped bite size)
6
slices
of bacon
(cooked and crumbled)
1
cup
cashew pieces
(lightly salted)
1
cup
golden raisins
½
cup
red onion
(finely chopped)

For the Dressing

¾
cup
mayonnaise
¼
cup
sour cream
¼
cup
granulated sugar
1
Tablespoon
Apple Cider vinegar

Instructions

In a large bowl, combine the chopped broccoli florets, cauliflower florets, cashew pieces, golden raisins, and finely chopped red onion. Toss gently to ensure all ingredients are well mixed.
In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, granulated sugar, and apple cider vinegar until smooth and creamy. Ensure the sugar is fully dissolved for a perfectly balanced dressing.
Pour the prepared dressing over the vegetable mixture in the large bowl. Using a sturdy spatula or large spoon, mix thoroughly until all the vegetables and mix-ins are evenly coated with the rich, creamy dressing.
Just before serving, stir in the crispy, crumbled bacon. This ensures the bacon retains its crunch and adds a final burst of savory flavor to the salad.

Notes

This salad develops a richer, more complex flavor after sitting for a few hours in the refrigerator, allowing the dressing to meld with the other ingredients. However, it can certainly be eaten immediately after making if you’re short on time.

Storing: To maintain freshness and prevent the bacon from becoming soggy, store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator, keeping the crumbled bacon separate until you are ready to serve. The salad stays delicious and fresh in the fridge for several days, making it perfect for meal prep or entertaining.

Variations: If you’re looking to change things up or accommodate dietary preferences, there are several delicious variations. Instead of cashews, try adding one cup of cubed or shredded sharp cheddar cheese for a savory, cheesy alternative. This adds another layer of creaminess and saltiness that many adore.

You can also replace the golden raisins with craisins (dried cranberries) for a tart counterpoint to the sweet dressing. For an even more complex flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of fresh dill or parsley, or a dash of black pepper to the dressing.

Nutrition

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Tips for Success & Serving Suggestions

To truly unlock the full potential of this Amish Broccoli Cauliflower Salad, consider these additional tips and serving ideas:

Make-Ahead Marvel

One of the best aspects of this salad is its make-ahead capability. For optimal flavor and texture, prepare the salad (excluding the bacon) at least 2-4 hours before serving, or even the day before. This allows the dressing to deeply infuse the broccoli and cauliflower, tenderizing them slightly and bringing all the flavors into perfect harmony. Just remember to add the crumbled bacon right before serving to keep it wonderfully crisp. If making it a day ahead, store the dressing and vegetable mixture separately for maximum freshness, combining them about 4 hours before serving.

Perfect Pairings for Any Occasion

This versatile salad is a fantastic accompaniment to a wide array of dishes. Its creamy, crunchy, sweet, and savory profile makes it an ideal partner for:

Barbecue and Grilling: Serve it alongside grilled chicken, ribs, pulled pork, or beef brisket for a refreshing contrast to smoky meats.
Picnics and Potlucks: It travels incredibly well and is always a crowd-pleaser, making it perfect for outdoor gatherings.
Sandwiches and Wraps: A scoop of this salad is a delicious side to any deli sandwich, burger, or wrap.
Family Dinners: Pair it with roasted chicken, baked ham, or even simple pan-seared fish for a complete and satisfying meal.

Customization and Creative Twists

While the classic recipe is perfect as is, feel free to experiment with these variations to suit your taste or what you have on hand:

Nut Alternatives: Besides cashews, toasted pecans, walnuts, or slivered almonds can offer a different nutty flavor and crunch. If you’re avoiding nuts entirely, roasted sunflower or pumpkin seeds are excellent choices.
Cheese Please: As mentioned, sharp cheddar cheese (cubed or shredded) adds a delightful savory element. Other cheeses like Colby Jack or a mild provolone could also work.
Add More Veggies: Enhance the nutritional value and visual appeal by adding finely diced carrots, bell peppers (yellow or orange for color), or even some shredded cabbage for extra crunch.
Herbaceous Notes: A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley, chives, or a hint of dill can brighten the flavors of the dressing.
Sweetener Adjustments: If you prefer less refined sugar, you can try a small amount of maple syrup or honey in the dressing, adjusting to taste. Remember these will change the flavor profile slightly.
Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy a little heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes in the dressing or a dash of hot sauce can add a subtle spicy zing.

Storage and Leftovers

Leftovers of this Amish Broccoli Cauliflower Salad are just as delicious, sometimes even more so, as the flavors continue to deepen. Store any remaining salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For the best texture, especially if you anticipate leftovers, store the bacon separately and add it only to the portion you plan to eat immediately. This will ensure every bite remains delightfully crunchy.

Embrace the Simplicity and Flavor

This Amish Broccoli Cauliflower Salad is more than just a recipe; it’s a celebration of simple, wholesome ingredients transformed into something truly special. Its balance of fresh, crunchy vegetables, rich creamy dressing, and delightful mix-ins makes it an undeniable crowd-pleaser and a versatile side dish for countless occasions. Whether you’re hosting a grand barbecue or simply looking for a refreshing and satisfying addition to your weeknight dinner, this salad promises to deliver flavor, texture, and a touch of old-fashioned charm. Give it a try, and you’ll quickly understand why this creamy, crunchy favorite has earned its place as a cherished country classic.