Have I mentioned I’m having a love affair with cauliflower? It’s incredibly versatile, packed with fiber and antioxidants, and a great source of vitamins C and K. Best of all, it pairs perfectly with another longtime favorite of mine, broccoli.

This creamy broccoli cauliflower salad is one of those easy recipes I find myself making all summer long. It’s low carb, keto-friendly, loaded with crispy bacon, cheddar cheese and crunchy walnuts, and always disappears quickly at BBQs, picnics and potlucks. Best of all, there’s no cooking involved (except the bacon), so it’s ready in just minutes.

Editor’s Note: This recipe was originally published in July 2021 and has been updated for July 2026 with refreshed content and helpful tips.

This broccoli cauliflower salad is always a welcome addition to summer BBQs, potlucks and family gatherings. Aside from cooking the bacon, there’s very little prep involved, making it an easy side dish for busy days.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

People often think healthy side dishes are boring, but this broccoli cauliflower salad proves otherwise. Crisp vegetables, smoky bacon, sharp cheddar, crunchy walnuts and a creamy dressing come together for a side dish that’s satisfying enough to steal the spotlight. Best of all, it’s naturally low in carbohydrates and comes together in just minutes.

Low Carb Keto-Friendly Broccoli Cauliflower Salad Recipe

Yields: 8 servings

Prep: 10 minutes | Cook: 0 minutes | Total: 10 minutes

Ingredients:

• 3 cups raw broccoli
• 3 cups raw cauliflower
• 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• ½ cup sweet onion, chopped
• ½ cup cheddar cheese, shredded
• ½ cup walnuts, chopped
• 1 cup mayo
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

1. Add broccoli, cauliflower, bacon, onion, cheese and walnuts to a large bowl.

2. In a small bowl, whisk together mayo and apple cider vinegar.

3. Pour dressing over the top of the salad ingredients and toss to completely coat. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Store in the refrigerator until ready to eat.

 

Why You’ll Love This Broccoli Cauliflower Salad

• Ready in just 10 minutes
• Low carb and keto-friendly
• Perfect for BBQs, potlucks and picnics
• Full of crunchy texture and savory bacon
• Easy to make ahead
• Naturally gluten-free (just double-check your mayonnaise)

 

Tips for the Best Broccoli Cauliflower Salad

• Cut the broccoli and cauliflower into small, bite-sized florets for the best texture.
• Cook the bacon until crisp so it stays crunchy in the salad.
• Chill the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving so the flavors meld together.
• Toast the walnuts for extra flavor.
• This salad tastes even better the next day.

Why This Recipe Works

People often think healthy side dishes are boring, but this broccoli cauliflower salad proves otherwise. Crisp vegetables, smoky bacon, sharp cheddar, crunchy walnuts and a creamy dressing come together for a side dish that’s satisfying enough to steal the spotlight. Best of all, it’s naturally low in carbohydrates and comes together in just minutes.

Make It Ahead

One of the best things about this broccoli cauliflower salad is that it can be made ahead of time. Prepare it several hours before serving—or even the night before—and refrigerate until ready to enjoy. The dressing has time to soak into the vegetables, making the flavors even better.

Easy Variations

• Use pecans instead of walnuts.
• Add sunflower seeds for extra crunch.
• Swap cheddar for Colby Jack.
• Stir in diced avocado just before serving.
• Add grilled chicken for a complete low carb lunch.
• Use Greek yogurt for part of the mayonnaise if you prefer a lighter dressing.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir before serving. This recipe is not recommended for freezing because the fresh vegetables lose their crisp texture.

You might also love these healthy cauliflower recipes: Amazing Low Carb Cauliflower “Potato” Salad and How to Make Low Carb Mediterranean Cauliflower Pizza

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