Description
A creamy and delicious Loaded Cauliflower Salad that combines fresh cauliflower with crispy bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and a tangy dressing.
Ingredients
- 1 large head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets (about 6 cups)
- 6 slices bacon, cooked until crispy and crumbled
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 3 green onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon ranch seasoning (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the cauliflower. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cauliflower florets and cook for 5–8 minutes, until just fork-tender but still slightly firm. Alternatively, steam them for 6–8 minutes.
- Drain and cool. Drain the cauliflower thoroughly and spread it on a clean kitchen towel or baking sheet. Allow it to cool completely and release excess moisture. This helps prevent a watery salad.
- Prepare the dressing. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and optional ranch seasoning until smooth.
- Combine the ingredients. Add the cooled cauliflower to the dressing. Gently toss until each piece is evenly coated.
- Add the toppings. Fold in the crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, and sliced green onions. Reserve a little bacon, cheese, and green onion for garnish.
- Chill the salad. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
- Garnish and serve. Sprinkle the reserved toppings and fresh parsley over the salad just before serving.
Notes
- Make sure the cauliflower is completely cooled before mixing to avoid a watery salad.
- This salad can be made a day in advance for better flavor.
- Feel free to customize with additional toppings like diced tomatoes or avocado.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing and Chilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 30mg