Description
This creamy BLT cauliflower salad is a delicious and healthy twist on the classic BLT sandwich. Featuring tender blanched cauliflower florets, crispy bacon bits, and juicy cherry tomatoes, all tossed in a flavorful, creamy dressing made with mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar. It’s a quick, low-carb, and satisfying salad perfect as a side or light main course.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad
- 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into small florets
- 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
Dressing
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (use a keto-friendly mayo if desired)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the cauliflower: Cut the cauliflower into small, bite-sized florets. Blanch them by boiling in water for 2-3 minutes, then immediately transfer to ice water to stop cooking. Drain well and pat dry with paper towels. Alternatively, use raw cauliflower for a crunchier texture.
- Cook the bacon: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon slices until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from pan, crumble them, and set aside.
- Make the creamy dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, combine the blanched cauliflower florets, crumbled bacon, and halved cherry tomatoes. Pour the creamy dressing over the mixture and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately as a refreshing side dish or light meal.
Notes
- Blanching cauliflower softens it slightly while keeping some crunch; use raw for extra crunch.
- Use keto-friendly mayonnaise for a low-carb option.
- Adjust salt and pepper in the dressing to your taste.
- This salad is best served fresh but can be refrigerated for up to a day.
- For a vegetarian version, omit bacon and add smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
