This vibrant Christmas Salad is a festive showstopper, bringing together the classic red, green, and white colors of the season. With crisp veggies and a creamy, tangy dressing, it’s perfect for holiday dinners, potlucks, or any merry gathering. Plus, it’s quick and easy to prepare, making it a go-to side dish for busy holiday hosts!
Why This Recipe Works
Festive Presentation: The bright colors of broccoli, cauliflower, and cherry tomatoes bring a cheerful holiday vibe to your table.
Simple Ingredients: Made with everyday kitchen staples, this salad is budget-friendly yet incredibly flavorful.
Versatile: The salad is customizable—add nuts, dried cranberries, or bacon bits for extra texture and taste.
Ingredients
Vegetables
1 broccoli: Chopped into bite-sized florets.
1 cauliflower: Chopped into bite-sized florets.
1 red onion: Thinly sliced for a hint of sharpness.
2 cups cherry tomatoes: Halved to add a pop of color and sweetness.
½ cup shredded cheese (optional): Adds creaminess and depth.
Dressing
1 cup mayonnaise: Forms the creamy base.
½ cup sour cream: Adds tang and richness.
1 tbsp cider vinegar: Balances the creaminess with a touch of acidity.
1 tbsp sugar: A hint of sweetness to complement the veggies.
½ tsp black pepper: For a subtle kick of spice.
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Veggies
Chop the broccoli and cauliflower into small florets.
Halve the cherry tomatoes and thinly slice the red onion.
Combine all the vegetables in a large mixing bowl.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, cider vinegar, sugar, and black pepper.
Taste the dressing and adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
Pour the dressing over the vegetable mix.
Toss gently to ensure everything is evenly coated.
Step 4: Chill and Serve
Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This allows the flavors to meld.
Serve cold as a festive side dish.
Tips for Recipe Success
Cut Evenly: Chop broccoli and cauliflower florets to a uniform size for better presentation and even coating.
Make Ahead: Prepare this salad up to a day in advance to save time. The flavors get even better as they sit.
Optional Add-Ins:
Cranberries: Add ½ cup for a sweet-tart twist.
Sunflower Seeds: Sprinkle for crunch.
Crispy Bacon: Crumble and mix in for smoky goodness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this salad alongside roasted turkey, ham, or prime rib for a complete holiday feast.
Pair it with warm dinner rolls and a bowl of hearty soup for a cozy meal.
Add it to your potluck menu—it’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser!
Storage Tips
Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Dressing Note: Keep leftover dressing separate to prevent the veggies from becoming too soggy.
Why It’s Perfect for the Holidays
This Christmas Salad captures the spirit of the season in every bite. The crunch of fresh vegetables paired with a creamy, tangy dressing makes it a refreshing contrast to heavier holiday dishes. Whether you’re hosting a formal dinner or a casual gathering, this salad is the perfect addition to your holiday table.
Bring the magic of the season to your meals with this easy-to-make, beautiful, and delicious Christmas Salad. It’s a recipe that’ll become a holiday tradition in no time!