When it comes to holiday meals, a bright and refreshing salad is the perfect way to balance out rich casseroles, savory roasts, and sweet desserts. This Easy Christmas Salad is not only simple to prepare but also visually stunning, thanks to its red, green, and white color palette—making it the perfect addition to your Christmas dinner table.

With crunchy broccoli, cauliflower, juicy cherry tomatoes, and a creamy homemade dressing, this salad delivers flavor, freshness, and texture in every bite. Best of all, it requires no cooking, making it a stress-free dish during the busy holiday season.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Festive Colors: The red cherry tomatoes, green broccoli, and white cauliflower make this salad a natural fit for Christmas gatherings.
• Quick and Easy: No oven, no stove—just chop, mix, and chill.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for prepping the day before holiday dinners.
• Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: Creamy dressing with a hint of tang and sweetness pairs beautifully with crunchy vegetables.
• Customizable: Add bacon, cheese, or nuts for extra flavor and texture.

Ingredients Breakdown

Here’s a closer look at what makes this salad both delicious and festive:

For the Salad

• Broccoli (1 head, chopped into florets): Adds crunch, color, and nutrients.
• Cauliflower (1 head, chopped into florets): Provides a mild flavor and a snowy-white contrast.
• Red Onion (thinly sliced): Brings a sharp bite that balances the creamy dressing.
• Cherry Tomatoes (2 cups, halved): Adds juiciness, sweetness, and the perfect holiday red.
• Shredded Cheese (½ cup, optional): A creamy, savory addition for cheese lovers.

For the Dressing

• Mayonnaise (1 cup): The base for the creamy texture.
• Sour Cream (½ cup): Adds tang and smoothness.
• Cider Vinegar (1 tbsp): Provides a subtle acidity that brightens the salad.
• Sugar (1 tbsp): Balances the tanginess of the dressing.
• Black Pepper (½ tsp): Enhances flavor with a mild spice.

Pro Tip: For extra flavor, top the salad with crispy bacon bits or roasted nuts before serving.

Tips and Tricks

• Chill Before Serving: Refrigerating the salad for at least an hour helps the flavors blend.
• Cut Evenly: Chop broccoli and cauliflower into similar-sized florets for better presentation.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the dressing the day before, then toss with veggies just before serving.
• Low-Carb Version: Omit the sugar or swap with a sugar substitute for a keto-friendly salad.
• Boost Nutrition: Add bell peppers, shredded carrots, or cucumbers for extra crunch and color.

Variations and Customizations

• Cheesy Christmas Salad: Add shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or parmesan.
• Bacon Lovers’ Version: Mix in crumbled bacon for a smoky, savory twist.
• Nutty Crunch: Add toasted almonds, walnuts, or pecans.
• Lighter Dressing Option: Swap mayo for Greek yogurt to cut calories while keeping it creamy.
• Vegan Alternative: Use plant-based mayo and sour cream for a dairy-free version.

Pairing Suggestions

This festive salad pairs beautifully with holiday classics such as:

• Roasted turkey or ham
• Prime rib or beef tenderloin
• Mashed potatoes and gravy
• Cheesy casseroles
• Fresh dinner rolls or garlic bread

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Stir before serving as the dressing may settle.
• Make Ahead: Chop vegetables and prepare the dressing separately. Mix together an hour before serving for maximum freshness.
• Freezer: Not recommended, as the creamy dressing and fresh vegetables will lose texture after thawing.

Popular Questions

Can I make this salad the night before Christmas?
Yes! Just mix the dressing and chop the veggies ahead of time. Combine an hour before serving for the best flavor and crunch.

Can I use frozen broccoli and cauliflower?
Fresh is best for this salad. Frozen veggies tend to release too much water, which can make the salad soggy.

Can I make this salad healthier?
Absolutely. Use light mayo, Greek yogurt, or low-fat sour cream for a lighter dressing without sacrificing flavor.

What cheese works best in this salad?
Shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or parmesan all work well. For a bolder flavor, try sharp cheddar.

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