Go Back
+ servings

Bright Marinated Cauliflower Salad with Tomatoes, Olives, and Red Wine Vinaigrette

Bright, gluten-free marinated cauliflower salad with cherry tomatoes, olives, and a tangy vinaigrette. Great for potlucks and quick sides.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 2 minutes
Total Time 17 minutes
Servings: 1
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 201

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 1 medium head cauliflower cut into bite-size florets
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1/2 medium red onion thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup pitted black olives halved
  • 1/4 cup pitted green olives halved
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped
For the Dressing
  • 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 clove garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Fill a large pot with 3 to 4 quarts of water and add a generous pinch of salt. Bring it to a rolling boil, then drop in the cauliflower florets and blanch for 1 to 2 minutes until they turn bright white and are still crisp-tender. Immediately scoop them into a big bowl of ice water to stop the cooking.
  2. Cool the florets in the ice bath for about 5 minutes, then drain them in a colander. Spread them on a clean kitchen towel or pat dry with paper towels until no excess water remains.
  3. Put the dry cauliflower florets in a large mixing bowl. Add the halved cherry tomatoes, sliced red onion, halved black and green olives, and chopped parsley. Toss gently to combine.
  4. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes until creamy and well blended.
  5. Pour the dressing over the vegetable mixture. Use a large spoon or spatula to toss everything gently until all ingredients are evenly coated.
  6. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the salad to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the cauliflower marinate and absorb the vinaigrette.
  7. When ready to serve, stir the salad once more. Taste and adjust the seasoning with extra salt or pepper if needed.

Nutrition

Calories: 201kcalCarbohydrates: 12gProtein: 4gFat: 16gSaturated Fat: 2gSodium: 674mgFiber: 5gSugar: 5g

Notes

Use a mix of Kalamata and Manzanilla olives for extra brininess.
If you prefer roasted cauliflower, toss florets with olive oil and roast at 425°F until golden, then dress while slightly warm.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Make it a meal by adding chickpeas, grilled chicken, or crumbled feta.
Pat the cauliflower very dry after blanching so the dressing clings beautifully.
For the most vibrant flavor, marinate at least an hour or overnight.
Taste before serving and adjust salt, pepper, or vinegar to your liking.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!