Description
Mediterranean Marinated Cauliflower Salad is a delightful dish that embodies the vibrant flavors of Mediterranean cuisine. This refreshing salad features crisp cauliflower, juicy cherry tomatoes, and tangy olives, all drizzled with a zesty herb dressing. Perfect for any occasion, whether as a light meal, a side dish for gatherings, or an addition to your summer menu, it offers a healthy choice that’s low in carbs and packed with essential vitamins. Quick to prepare in just 15 minutes, this versatile recipe can be enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, making it ideal for picnics and barbecues. Customize it with toasted nuts or fresh herbs for added texture and flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
- 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 the cauliflower florets in boiling water for 1-2 minutes until tender-crisp. Immediately transfer to an ice bath to preserve color.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the blanched cauliflower with cherry tomatoes, red onions, olives, and parsley.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red apple 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: Blanching and Mixing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg