Delicious Cauliflower Salad Recipe for Every Occasion

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cauliflower salad stands out with its creamy, tangy dressing that perfectly coats the crunchy cauliflower, creating a delightful contrast in every bite. With the addition of hard-boiled eggs, pickled red onions, capers, and fresh herbs, this salad is not only nutritious but also full of layers of flavor. It’s refreshing, easy to prepare, and can be made ahead, making it the perfect side dish for busy days or special gatherings. Plus, it’s a great alternative to traditional potato salad, offering a lighter, healthier option.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
3 tablespoons whole milk Greek yogurt
1½ tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon honey
1 garlic clove, grated
½ teaspoon sea salt
Freshly ground black pepper
4 cups small cauliflower florets (from about 1 medium cauliflower, 1½ pounds)
3 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
2 celery stalks, thinly sliced
Heaping ½ cup pickled red onions
1½ tablespoons capers
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill

Directions

Prepare the Dressing

In a large bowl, whisk together the extra-virgin olive oil, Greek yogurt, fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, grated garlic, sea salt, and several grinds of black pepper until the mixture is smooth and well combined.

Combine Salad Ingredients

Add the small cauliflower florets to the bowl with the dressing and stir to coat them evenly. Then, add the chopped hard-boiled eggs, sliced celery, pickled red onions, capers, chopped parsley, and chopped dill. Mix everything together thoroughly to ensure even distribution.

Chill the Salad

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, and refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour. This chilling step enhances the flavors and allows the cauliflower to soften slightly. If you have time, the salad can be chilled for up to a day before serving.

Serve

Before serving, give the salad a good stir to redistribute the ingredients. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper, if necessary. Serve the salad chilled for the best flavor and texture.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4-6 servings
Prep time: 15 minutes
Chill time: 1 hour (optional up to a day)
Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes (including chilling)

Variations

Add more veggies: Add chopped bell peppers, carrots, or peas for extra color and crunch.
Swap the herbs: Experiment with other fresh herbs like basil or cilantro for a different flavor.
Add nuts: Top the salad with some toasted almonds, walnuts, or pine nuts for an extra crunch.
Incorporate seasonal vegetables: Use roasted or grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or tomatoes to add a more savory note.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: This salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a day. It’s best enjoyed fresh but can be kept at room temperature for a few hours if necessary.
Reheating: This salad is best served chilled, and does not require reheating. However, if you prefer, you can let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I substitute Greek yogurt with another ingredient?

Yes, you can substitute Greek yogurt with sour cream, vegan yogurt, or a dairy-free alternative depending on your dietary preferences.

2. How can I make this salad vegan?

To make the salad vegan, use a dairy-free yogurt alternative and omit the hard-boiled eggs, or replace them with a plant-based protein like tofu or chickpeas.

3. What can I use instead of pickled red onions?

If you don’t have pickled red onions, you can use fresh red onions soaked in vinegar for a similar tangy flavor or simply omit them for a milder version of the salad.

4. How long can I store this salad?

This cauliflower salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a day. It’s best enjoyed fresh but can be kept at room temperature for a few hours if necessary.

5. Can I add other vegetables to the salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or peas for added color and nutrition. Just be sure to chop them into similar sizes for even mixing.

Conclusion

This cauliflower salad is the perfect blend of creamy, tangy, and crunchy, making it a refreshing alternative to traditional potato salad. Whether you’re looking for a healthy side dish for a picnic or a potluck, or a quick lunch, this salad is sure to impress. With its variety of flavors and textures, it’s a dish that works well with a wide range of meals. Plus, it’s so easy to make, and you can customize it with your favorite vegetables or toppings. Enjoy this light, flavorful salad on any occasion!

Delicious Cauliflower Salad Recipe for Every Occasion

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ingredients