This crunchy and bright cauliflower salad is super easy to make! Tossed in a tasty marinade, it brings out all the yummy flavors. Perfect as a side dish or a light snack!
I love how refreshing this salad is, especially on hot days. You can even make it ahead of time—the flavors get better as it sits. Perfect for meal prep lovers like me! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cauliflower: The star of this salad! Use a fresh medium head, but if you can’t find it, frozen cauliflower florets can work in a pinch. Just thaw and pat dry before using.
Red Bell Pepper: This adds color and sweetness. If you’re not a fan, try using yellow or orange bell peppers instead. You could even use cucumbers for a different crunch!
Olives: Black olives are great for their briny taste. If you prefer a milder flavor, green olives or even chopped pickles could be a tasty alternative.
Pepperoncini: These add a tangy kick! If you don’t have them, banana peppers or even sliced jalapeños can bring a similar zest to the salad.
Olive Oil: A crucial ingredient for the dressing. You can substitute with avocado oil or sunflower oil if you want a different flavor profile or if you’re looking for a higher smoke point.
What’s the Best Way to Prep Cauliflower?
Preparing the cauliflower properly can make a big difference in texture. You may choose to eat it raw or cooked! Here’s how:
- For a crunchier texture, cut the cauliflower directly into small florets and rinse them.
- If you prefer a slightly softer bite, blanch them. To do this, boil water, add florets for 1-2 mins, then quickly drain and cool in ice water.
This helps retain a vibrant color while making it tender enough for the salad. It also helps absorb the marinade better!
How Can I Make the Salad Even Better?
To elevate the flavors, let the salad marinate longer. Overnight is ideal, as it lets the veggies soak up the dressing. Stir it again before serving for an even blend of flavors.
If you enjoy a bit of crunch, consider adding nuts like slivered almonds or sunflower seeds before serving. Fresh herbs like dill or basil can also add a nice twist to the flavor!
Easy Marinated Cauliflower Salad
Ingredients:
- 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into small florets
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup pepperoncini or banana peppers, sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 3 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder (or 1 clove garlic, minced)
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus at least 2 hours of chill time in the fridge. For the best flavor, prepare it overnight if you can! It’s a hassle-free dish that’s great for gatherings or easy dinners at home.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cauliflower:
Start by washing the cauliflower thoroughly. Cut it into small, bite-sized florets. If you like a softer texture, you can blanch the florets in boiling water for 1-2 minutes, then quickly drain and let them cool. Otherwise, you can keep them raw for that satisfying crunch. Either way, they’ll be delicious!
2. Mix the Veggies:
In a large mixing bowl, place the cauliflower florets, diced red bell pepper, finely chopped red onion, sliced black olives, pepperoncini (or banana peppers), and the fresh parsley. This beautiful medley of colors will make your salad vibrant and appealing!
3. Make the Marinade:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, garlic powder (or minced garlic), salt, and black pepper. Mix until everything is well combined. This marinade is what brings all the flavors to life!
4. Combine Everything:
Pour the marinade over the mixed vegetables in the large bowl. Toss everything together gently until all veggies are nicely coated with the marinade. Don’t rush—make sure every piece is covered!
5. Chill and Let the Flavors Develop:
Cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 2 hours or, for best results, overnight. This waiting period allows the flavors to mingle and the cauliflower to absorb the delicious marinade.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once you’re ready to serve, take the salad out of the fridge and give it a good stir. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. This salad is delightful served chilled or at room temperature. It makes for a refreshing side dish or a light meal on its own!
Enjoy your flavorful and easy marinated cauliflower salad! 🍽️
FAQ for Easy Marinated Cauliflower Salad
Can I Use Different Vegetables in This Salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize this salad by adding other veggies such as cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, or carrots. Just remember to keep the sizes similar for even marinating.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, so it’s great for meal prep!
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
This salad is already vegan! All the ingredients are plant-based, making it a perfect choice for those following a vegan diet or anyone looking for a fresh, healthy dish.
What’s the Best Way to Serve This Salad?
This salad is excellent on its own, but you can pair it with grilled meats, fish, or serve it over a bed of greens. It’s also a great addition to a potluck or barbecue!
