![For this fresh and tasty salad, you need: - 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into florets - 4 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, or romaine) - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved - 1 cup cooked chickpeas, drained and rinsed - 1/2 cup crispy shallots (can be store-bought or homemade) - Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish Each of these fresh items plays a key role in flavor and nutrition. The cauliflower gives a nice crunch, while the greens add a fresh taste. The chickpeas provide protein, making the salad hearty. You also need some common pantry items: - 1/2 cup vegan mayonnaise - 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar - 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard - Salt and pepper to taste These staples help create the creamy dressing. The vegan mayonnaise adds richness, while the vinegar and mustard offer a nice tang. This balance makes every bite delicious. If you want to switch things up, try these options: - Add sliced avocado for creaminess. - Toss in crispy bacon for extra flavor. - Use regular mayonnaise if you prefer. These garnishes and swaps let you customize the salad to your liking. Feel free to experiment and find your favorite version. For the full recipe, check out the [Full Recipe] section. First, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This step is key for a great roast. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Take your medium head of cauliflower and cut it into florets. Toss these florets in a bowl with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them evenly on your baking sheet. Roast for about 20-25 minutes. You want them golden brown and tender. Halfway through, turn the florets for even cooking. Once they are done, let them cool for a bit. While the cauliflower roasts, let’s make the dressing. In a large mixing bowl, combine vegan mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard. Add salt and pepper to taste. Whisk these ingredients together until smooth. This creamy dressing will add flavor to your salad. Taste it and adjust the seasoning if needed. Now it’s time to bring everything together. In the bowl with your dressing, add the mixed greens and cooked chickpeas. Toss gently to coat the greens well. Next, fold in the roasted cauliflower and halved cherry tomatoes. Be careful not to break the cauliflower florets. This step keeps your salad looking colorful and inviting. To finish, sprinkle crispy shallots on top for a nice crunch. Add fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor. You can serve the salad chilled or at room temperature. It makes a great side dish or a light main meal. Enjoy your BLT Cauliflower Salad! For the full recipe, check out the details above. Roasting cauliflower brings out its natural sweetness. For the best results, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Cut the cauliflower into even florets. This helps them cook uniformly. Toss the florets lightly with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast for 20-25 minutes. Turn them halfway through cooking for even browning. The cauliflower should be golden and tender when done. A creamy dressing can elevate your salad. Use vegan mayonnaise as your base. It adds richness without dairy. Mix in apple cider vinegar for tang and Dijon mustard for depth. Adjust the salt and pepper to fit your taste. If you want it creamier, add a splash more vegan mayo. Blend well until smooth. This dressing will coat your greens beautifully. Fresh herbs make a big difference. Chopped parsley adds a bright flavor. You can also try fresh chives or basil for new tastes. Spices like garlic powder or smoked paprika add warmth. Sprinkle a pinch of each into your dressing or salad. These simple additions can enhance the overall flavor of your meal. Remember to taste as you go! Enjoy these tips while preparing your BLT Cauliflower Salad and check out the Full Recipe for more details. {{image_2}} If you love meat, you can add it to your salad. Cooked bacon pieces give a nice crunch and smoky taste. You can also use shredded chicken for a hearty touch. Try crispy prosciutto for a gourmet twist. These options enhance the salad without losing the classic BLT flavor. For a vegan twist, chickpeas are a great choice. They add protein and texture. You can also swap the vegan mayo for tahini or avocado. Both options keep the salad creamy and delicious. If you need a gluten-free option, just check the labels on your mayo and mustard. Get creative with your flavors! Add avocado for creaminess and healthy fats. You can also toss in pickles for a tangy kick. Try different herbs like basil or dill for a fresh note. A sprinkle of nutritional yeast can give a cheesy flavor without dairy. Each twist makes the salad unique and fun to eat. For the full recipe, check out the detailed instructions above. To keep your BLT cauliflower salad fresh, store it in the fridge. Place the salad in an airtight container. This helps keep the ingredients from wilting. Use the salad within three days for the best taste. If you notice any sogginess, remove the crispy shallots before storing. For the best results, use glass containers with tight-sealing lids. Glass keeps food fresh longer than plastic. It also does not absorb odors or stains. If you prefer plastic, choose BPA-free containers. These options guard against leaks and keep your salad crisp and tasty. If you want to enjoy warm cauliflower, reheat it separately. Use a microwave or oven. For the microwave, place it in a bowl and heat for 30 seconds. Stir and heat again if needed. In the oven, preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10 minutes. Avoid reheating the mixed greens or the dressing; they taste best cold. Enjoy your salad as you like! You can find the full recipe [here](#). Yes, you can use frozen cauliflower. Just thaw it first. Drain any excess water. This will help keep the salad from getting soggy. Roasting frozen cauliflower is not recommended. It may become mushy instead of crispy. This salad lasts about three days in the fridge. Store it in an airtight container. The dressing may make the greens wilt over time, so enjoy it fresh. You can add many veggies to this salad. Try cucumbers for crunch or bell peppers for sweetness. You can also use radishes for a peppery bite or corn for a touch of sweetness. Get creative with your favorites! Yes, you can make a nut-free dressing easily. Simply use a store-bought nut-free mayonnaise. You can also mix olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs for a fresh taste. This keeps your salad tasty and safe for those with nut allergies. You can find the Full Recipe to get started on this delicious dish. In this blog post, we explored how to make a tasty BLT cauliflower salad. You learned about fresh ingredients, pantry staples, and optional garnishes. I shared step-by-step instructions for roasting cauliflower and making a creamy dressing. You also discovered tips and variations, plus how to store leftovers safely. Try this salad as a healthy option for any meal. Enjoy the mix of flavors and textures. Your cooking can be simple and fun, so get creative with your ingredients!](https://grilledflavors.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/8b6fcc33-10c4-4a8a-ae47-3f57c3054591-300x300.webp)
BLT Cauliflower Salad
Revamp your salad game with this delicious BLT Cauliflower Salad! This fresh and healthy dish combines roasted cauliflower, crisp greens, juicy cherry tomatoes, and crunchy shallots, all tossed in a creamy vegan dressing. Perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish, it’s easy to prepare and bursting with flavor. Click through to discover the full recipe and impress your taste buds with this vibrant, guilt-free salad!