This crunchy BLT Cauliflower Salad brings a fresh twist to a classic favorite! It’s packed with tasty bits of cauliflower, crispy bacon, and juicy tomatoes, all mixed with creamy dressing.
I love how colorful this salad is on my plate. Plus, it’s super quick to whip up—perfect for when you want a light meal without the fuss. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cauliflower: This is the star ingredient, providing a crunchy texture. You can use broccoli instead for a different but still delicious flavor.
Bacon: I love crispy bacon for its smoky flavor. If you prefer vegetarian options, use tempeh bacon or leave it out completely. You can also try turkey bacon, which is lighter.
Cherry Tomatoes: Great for their sweetness and juiciness! If they’re out of season, any diced tomato will do. You could also use roasted red peppers for a smoky twist.
Mayonnaise: This makes the dressing creamy. In place of mayo, you can use Greek yogurt for a lighter option, or vegan mayo if you’re looking for a plant-based choice.
How Do You Roast Cauliflower Perfectly?
Roasting cauliflower brings out its nuttiness and enhances the flavor. Here’s how to do it just right!
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). A hot oven is key for good roasting.
- Spread the cauliflower florets in a single layer on a baking sheet for even cooking.
- Roast for 15-20 minutes until they are lightly browned. Check halfway through to stir them, ensuring all sides get that nice color.
- Let them cool before adding to the salad. This keeps the dressing from wilting the veggies.
Now you’re all set to make a delicious BLT Cauliflower Salad! Enjoy the crisp textures and fresh flavors.
BLT Cauliflower Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into small florets
- 6 slices bacon
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, quartered (or 1 medium tomato, diced)
- 3 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious salad requires about 15-20 minutes of prep time for roasting the cauliflower and cooking the bacon. After mixing everything, allow the salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, bringing your total time to around an hour. Perfect for making ahead of time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Roasting the Cauliflower:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the cauliflower florets on a baking sheet. Make sure they are in a single layer for even roasting. Roast for about 15-20 minutes until they are lightly browned and tender. Once done, remove them from the oven and let them cool.
2. Cooking the Bacon:
While the cauliflower is roasting, place the bacon in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the bacon until crispy (around 8-10 minutes). Once crispy, remove it from the skillet and place it on paper towels to drain excess grease. When it’s cool, crumble or chop the bacon into bite-sized pieces.
3. Combining the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled roasted cauliflower, chopped tomatoes, thinly sliced green onions, and fresh parsley (if you’re using it). Toss in the crumbled bacon as well.
4. Making the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice), garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth. Feel free to taste and adjust the seasoning to your preference.
5. Dressing the Salad:
Pour the dressing over the cauliflower mixture in the large bowl. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated with the dressing.
6. Chilling the Salad:
Cover the salad bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This chilling step allows the flavors to meld beautifully together.
7. Serving:
When you’re ready to eat, serve your salad chilled or at room temperature. It makes a great side dish or a light meal on its own!
Enjoy your crunchy, savory BLT Cauliflower Salad!
Can I Use Frozen Cauliflower?
Yes, you can use frozen cauliflower florets! Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before roasting to avoid excess moisture in the salad.
What Can I Substitute for Bacon?
If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, try using tempeh bacon or smoked tofu for a similar flavor. You can also just omit the bacon for a lighter version!
How Long Will This Salad Last in the Fridge?
The salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a stir before serving, as the dressing may thicken slightly when chilled.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! This salad is great for meal prep. You can prepare it a day in advance; just add the dressing right before serving to keep the cauliflower crisp.