This BLT Cauliflower Salad is a fresh twist on a classic! With crunchy cauliflower, crisp bacon, juicy tomatoes, and creamy dressing, it’s both tasty and light.
Who knew a salad could be so fun? I could munch on this all day! Perfect for picnics or just when you want something yummy without the guilt. Try it, you’ll love it!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cauliflower: This is the star of the show! You can use white cauliflower, but if you want to change things up, try using purple or orange varieties for added color and nutrients.
Bacon: While traditional bacon adds great flavor, turkey or chicken bacon are great lower-fat alternatives. For a vegetarian version, consider using smoked tempeh or vegan bacon.
Cherry Tomatoes: If cherry tomatoes aren’t in season, you can use regular tomatoes diced finely. Roasted tomatoes also work well for a sweeter taste.
Mayonnaise: I love using regular mayo for creaminess; however, you can substitute with Greek yogurt for a healthier twist. If you’re dairy-free, try using avocado or a vegan mayonnaise.
How Do You Roast Cauliflower Perfectly?
Roasting is all about achieving that beautiful golden color and tender texture. Here’s how to roast cauliflower like a pro:
- Ensure you cut the florets into even sizes for uniform cooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet. Give the cauliflower space to char and crisp up!
- Flip the florets halfway through roasting to ensure even cooking.
Trust me, this step makes a big difference in flavor and texture!
BLT Cauliflower Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into florets
- 6 slices bacon
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare and another 25-30 minutes to roast the cauliflower and cook the bacon. You can serve it right away, or chill it for about 30 minutes to let the flavors blend together!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Roast the Cauliflower:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Take the cauliflower florets and place them on a baking sheet. Drizzle with a bit of olive oil, then add salt and pepper. Toss everything to coat the florets evenly. Roast in the oven for about 20-25 minutes until they are golden and tender, remembering to toss them halfway through for even roasting.
2. Cook the Bacon:
While the cauliflower is roasting, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the bacon slices and cook until they’re nice and crispy. Once done, remove them from the skillet and place on paper towels to soak up extra fat. After they’ve cooled down a bit, chop or crumble the bacon into small pieces.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk these together until smooth, creating a delicious dressing.
4. Mix the Salad:
Once the cauliflower has roasted and cooled slightly, add it to the bowl with the dressing. Toss in the chopped bacon, halved cherry tomatoes, and chopped parsley. Gently mix everything together until all the ingredients are well coated in the dressing.
5. Serve or Chill:
After giving the salad a good toss, check the seasoning and adjust if needed. You can serve it immediately or let it chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together. Enjoy your refreshing and delicious BLT Cauliflower Salad!
This salad combines the smokiness of bacon and the freshness of tomatoes with hearty roasted cauliflower, all bound by a creamy tangy dressing—delicious and satisfying!
Can I Use Cauliflower Rice Instead of Florets?
While you can use cauliflower rice, it won’t provide the same texture as roasted florets. If you prefer cauliflower rice, skip the roasting step and mix it raw with the dressing and other ingredients for a fresher salad.
How Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
To make the BLT Cauliflower Salad vegan, substitute the bacon with a plant-based bacon alternative and use vegan mayonnaise in the dressing. You might also consider adding extra veggies like avocado for creaminess!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, but the cauliflower may lose some of its crunch. If you’d like it crunchy, consider adding the bacon and dressing just before serving.
Can I Add Other Ingredients to This Salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other ingredients like diced bell peppers, green onions, or even crumbled feta cheese for added flavor. Just make sure the new ingredients complement the creamy dressing!