Name: Mediterranean Marinated Cauliflower Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 2 min
Total time: 42 min
Ingredients: 1 medium cauliflower head, cut into florets; 1½ cups cherry tomatoes, halved; ⅓ cup Kalamata olives; ½ cup thinly sliced red onion; ⅓ cup green olives; ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley; ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil; 3 tbsp red wine vinegar; 1 tsp Dijon mustard; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 tsp dried oregano; ½ tsp dried basil; ½ tsp salt; ½ tsp black pepper; ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

Embrace the vibrant and zesty flavors of the Mediterranean with this delightful Mediterranean Marinated Cauliflower Salad. This recipe is not just easy to prepare but also a burst of sunshine in a bowl, making it an ideal choice for a refreshing summer meal, a picnic treat, or even a light lunch. Imagine the satisfying crunch of freshly blanched cauliflower florets, the juicy pop of cherry tomatoes, and the briny depth offered by Kalamata and green olives, all doused in a tangy dressing that boasts earthy herbs like oregano and basil. Not to mention, the preparation is effortless, giving you more time to enjoy the delightful symphony of flavors. Whether you’re serving it as a starter, a side dish, or a stand-alone meal, its vibrant colors and bold tastes are sure to impress both your taste buds and your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Mediterranean Marinated Cauliflower Salad

This salad isn’t just a feast for the senses; it’s a wholesome option for any meal.

Healthful Ingredients: Packed with vegetables that are high in fiber and vitamins.
Easy Preparation: Requires minimal cooking and preparation time.
Versatile Flavor: Complements a wide range of main courses or can stand alone.
Perfect for Gatherings: Always a crowd-pleaser at any event or party.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

The key to success with the Mediterranean Marinated Cauliflower Salad lies in preparing your kitchen and workspace efficiently. Before you start, ensure you have a large pot for blanching the cauliflower and a large bowl ready for mixing your salad ingredients. An ice bath will be essential to halt the cooking process and preserve the cauliflower’s delightful crunch. Additionally, you’ll need a good whisk and a mixing bowl for the dressing, ensuring it emulsifies well. A sharp knife will aid in the precise cutting of the cauliflower, cherry tomatoes, and onions, while a sturdy cutting board will keep your workspace tidy and efficient. Organizing these utensils and your ingredients will make the cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, enhancing the freshness and flavor of the salad.

Ingredients

1 medium cauliflower head, cut into florets
1½ cups cherry tomatoes, halved
⅓ cup Kalamata olives
½ cup thinly sliced red onion
⅓ cup green olives
¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
3 tbsp red wine vinegar
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tsp dried oregano
½ tsp dried basil
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Blanch the Cauliflower

Begin by bringing a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Carefully add the cauliflower florets and allow them to cook for about 1 to 2 minutes. You want them to be just tender but still maintain a bit of their crispness. Quickly transfer the florets to a bowl of ice water to shock them, halting the cooking process and helping preserve their vibrant texture and color.

Step 2: Mix the Salad Base

As your cauliflower cools, gather the large mixing bowl. Combine the blanched cauliflower, halved cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, Kalamata olives, green olives, and freshly chopped parsley. This forms the hearty and colorful base of your salad.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a separate bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and emulsified, creating a robust dressing with a harmonious blend of tangy and savory notes.

Step 4: Toss and Chill

Pour the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients in the large bowl. Toss everything well to ensure each ingredient is coated with the flavorful dressing. For the best results, allow the salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving, enabling the flavors to meld beautifully.

Variations

Protein: Grilled chicken or chickpeas can be added for extra protein, making the salad more filling.
Vegetables: Consider adding sliced cucumbers or bell peppers for extra crunch and color.
Spices: For a smoky twist, add a touch of smoked paprika to the dressing.

Cooking Notes

To ensure the cauliflower absorbs the maximum flavor, chop it into smaller, bite-sized florets.
The ice bath is crucial for preserving the cauliflower’s crunch after blanching; don’t skip this step!
If preparing ahead, wait to add the dressing until just before serving to maintain the crispiness of the vegetables.

Serving Suggestions

This salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats or fish, complementing their flavors perfectly.
Serve it alongside a warm flatbread or pita for a more Mediterranean dining experience.

Tips

If you prefer a milder onion flavor, soak the sliced onions in cold water for 10 minutes before adding to the salad.
Adjust the level of red pepper flakes to cater to your desired spice level, or omit them entirely for a milder dish.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 2 minutes
Total Time: 42 minutes (including chilling)

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 130 per serving
Protein: 3 grams per serving
Sodium: 360 mg per serving

FAQs

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For optimal freshness, keep the dressing separate if you anticipate lots of leftovers.

Can I use frozen cauliflower instead of fresh?

Yes, but the texture will be softer after thawing and blanching. Fresh cauliflower is recommended for a better crunch.

What can I substitute for Kalamata olives?

You can substitute with black olives or omit them altogether if olives are not to your taste.

Why do you use an ice bath for cauliflower?

An ice bath stops the cooking process rapidly, keeping the cauliflower crisp and maintaining its vibrant color.

Conclusion

The Mediterranean Marinated Cauliflower Salad beautifully captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine with its bold flavors and delightful textures. It’s a simple yet impressive dish that can serve as a meal or a side, suitable for any occasion. Feel free to make it your own by trying the variations and tips provided. Don’t hesitate to share your experience or tweak the recipe to suit your taste. Your culinary adventure doesn’t stop here—invite others to enjoy the journey by sharing the recipe and continue exploring more flavorful dishes!