Description
Mediterranean Marinated Cauliflower Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that brings together the rich flavors of the Mediterranean in a healthy, satisfying way. This salad features crisp cauliflower florets, juicy cherry tomatoes, and briny olives, all tossed in a zesty herb dressing. Perfect for summer picnics, light lunches, or as a colorful side at dinner gatherings, this salad is not only quick to prepare but also highly customizable. Add your favorite nuts or seeds for an extra crunch or switch up the herbs to match your taste preferences. Enjoy this nutrient-packed dish chilled or at room temperature for a deliciously wholesome option that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into small florets
- 1 ½ cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup red onion, thinly sliced
- ⅓ cup black olives (Kalamata)
- ⅓ cup green olives
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tablespoons red apple vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Blanch cauliflower in boiling water for 1–2 minutes until tender-crisp, then transfer to an ice bath.
- In a large bowl, mix blanched cauliflower with cherry tomatoes, red onions, olives, and parsley.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, oregano, basil, salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.
- Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss well to coat evenly.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 260mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor. Adjust seasoning according to personal preference. Consider adding toasted nuts like almonds or sunflower seeds for extra texture.