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Mediterranean Marinated Cauliflower Salad Side

Mediterranean Marinated Cauliflower Salad Side – Fresh and Flavorful

Mediterranean Marinated Cauliflower Salad Side is a vibrant, gluten-free dish bursting with flavor, perfect for busy weeknights and potlucks.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 2 minutes
Marinating Time 30 minutes
Total Time 47 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 150

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 1 head Cauliflower Substitution: Broccoli can be used for a different flavor profile.
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes Substitution: Regular diced tomatoes work as a replacement.
  • 1/2 medium Red Onion Note: Green onions offer a milder alternative.
  • 1/4 cup Black Olives Substitution: Capers can bring a salty kick instead.
  • 1/4 cup Green Olives Substitution: Capers can bring a salty kick instead.
  • 1/4 cup Parsley Substitution: Cilantro introduces a different taste flair.
For the Dressing
  • 1/4 cup Olive Oil Substitution: Avocado oil can be used as an alternative.
  • 2 tablespoons Red Wine Vinegar Substitution: Apple cider vinegar can also work well.
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard Substitution: Yellow mustard can be used instead.
  • 1 clove Minced Garlic Note: Fresh garlic is preferred, but garlic powder can work in a pinch.
  • 1 teaspoon Oregano Note: Fresh herbs can enhance the taste even more.
  • 1 teaspoon Basil Note: Fresh herbs can enhance the taste even more.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Essential for seasoning; adjust according to taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Black Pepper Essential for seasoning; adjust according to taste.
  • 1/4 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes Optional: Omit if preferring a milder salad.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • colander
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Whisk

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Carefully add cauliflower florets and blanch them for 1-2 minutes until they turn bright white but remain crisp. Immediately transfer the florets to a bowl filled with ice water to stop the cooking process.
  2. Once the cauliflower has cooled for about 5 minutes in the ice bath, drain it thoroughly in a colander. Use a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to pat the cauliflower dry, removing excess moisture.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the blanched cauliflower, halved cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced red onions, pitted black and green olives, and freshly chopped parsley. Gently toss the ingredients together until they are evenly distributed.
  4. In a separate medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Mix until the dressing is well emulsified and creamy.
  5. Pour the dressing over the vegetable mixture in the large bowl. Using a spatula or large spoon, gently toss everything together until the vegetables are fully coated in the savory dressing.
  6. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or transfer the salad to an airtight container. Place it in the refrigerator and allow it to marinate for at least 30 minutes.
  7. Before serving, remove the salad from the refrigerator and give it a final toss to redistribute the dressing. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 2gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 1.5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gSodium: 400mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 4gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 5IUVitamin C: 50mgCalcium: 4mgIron: 4mg

Notes

This salad is perfect for customizing with your favorite ingredients and pairs well with grilled chicken or other sides.

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