Christmas Salad: Broccoli, Cauliflower & Tomatoes in Creamy Dressing 🎄🥗

This vibrant and festive salad is a delightful addition to your holiday spread! Packed with crunchy veggies and a creamy dressing, it's not only delicious but also nutritious. The combination of broccoli, cauliflower, and tomatoes creates a beautiful medley that will brighten any Christmas table. Perfect for family gatherings or celebrations with friends, this salad is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

Ingredients

For the salad

• 2 cups of fresh broccoli florets
• 2 cups of fresh cauliflower florets
• 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup of red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup of sunflower seeds (or your favorite nuts for extra crunch)

For the creamy dressing

• 1/2 cup of mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup of sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a healthier option)
• 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon of honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option)
• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

• In a large mixing bowl, add the broccoli florets, cauliflower florets, cherry tomatoes, and red onion. Toss them together until evenly mixed.

🥦 To keep the broccoli and cauliflower extra crunchy, you can blanch them in boiling water for just 1-2 minutes and then plunge them into ice water before adding them to the salad. This method enhances the color and maintains their crispiness.

• In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, honey, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.

🍯 Adjust the sweetness of the dressing to your preference by adding more honey or maple syrup if you like it sweeter.

• Pour the creamy dressing over the salad and mix gently until the vegetables are well-coated.

🌟 For an even creamier texture, let the salad sit in the fridge for about 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully!

• Just before serving, sprinkle the sunflower seeds on top for added crunch.

Variations

• Add protein: Toss in some cooked and diced chicken or chickpeas for additional protein, making it a more substantial dish! 🍗🥫
• Herby twist: Add chopped fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or cilantro to the salad for a burst of fresh flavor. 🌿
• Cheesy goodness: Mix in some crumbled feta cheese or shredded cheddar for a delightful cheesy addition! 🧀
• Spicy kick: Incorporate diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the dressing for a spicy twist! 🌶️

This Christmas salad is not just a feast for the eyes; it’s also a delightful mix of sweet and savory that will leave your guests asking for seconds! 🎉 Enjoy it at your holiday table and make it a part of your annual festive traditions!