If you’re looking for a fresh, colorful, and flavor-packed salad, this Loaded Cauliflower Salad is the perfect choice. Featuring tender macaroni pasta, crunchy broccoli, carrots, and red bell peppers, this salad is loaded with textures and tossed in a creamy, tangy peanut dressing. The peanut butter, soy sauce, and sesame oil combine to create a rich, flavorful dressing that pairs perfectly with the veggies. Topped with toasted peanuts, sesame seeds, and fresh cilantro, this salad is a vibrant, healthy option for any occasion.
Ingredients:
For the Salad:
- 8 oz dry macaroni pasta
- 3 cups chopped broccoli
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 3/4 cup shredded carrots
- 1/3 cup toasted peanuts
- 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro
For the Peanut Dressing:
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
- 1 1/2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 2 tsp sesame oil
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tsp sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 1/3 cup warm water
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta:
- Fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a boil.
- Add the macaroni and cook according to the package directions until it reaches an al dente texture. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to halt further cooking. Set aside.
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- While the pasta is cooking, chop the broccoli into bite-sized pieces, dice the red bell pepper, and shred the carrots. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, broccoli, red bell pepper, and shredded carrots.
- Make the Peanut Dressing:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, lime juice, and sriracha.
- Slowly add the warm water, whisking constantly, until the dressing reaches a smooth, pourable consistency.
- Assemble the Salad:
- Pour the peanut dressing over the pasta and vegetable mixture, tossing everything together until well-coated. Make sure the dressing is evenly distributed among the pasta and vegetables.
- Add the Toppings:
- Sprinkle the toasted peanuts, sesame seeds, and chopped fresh cilantro over the top of the salad. Toss gently to combine.
- Serve:
- Serve the salad immediately, or refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This salad can be served cold or at room temperature, making it a perfect dish for picnics, potlucks, or a healthy lunch option.
Conclusion:
This Loaded Cauliflower Salad with Tangy Peanut Dressing is a satisfying and flavorful dish that’s both nutritious and delicious. The combination of fresh vegetables, pasta, and a creamy peanut dressing provides a delightful mix of textures and bold flavors. The crunchy peanuts and sesame seeds add the perfect finishing touch, while the lime juice and sriracha bring a hint of zest and spice. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a refreshing side dish, this salad is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection!