If you’re searching for a refreshing and flavorful salad that’s both low-carb and satisfying, this Creamy Bacon & Cheddar Cauliflower Salad is a perfect choice. Packed with crisp cauliflower, sharp cheddar cheese, crunchy vegetables, and savory bacon, it’s a light yet indulgent dish that stands out from the typical salad options. The creamy, tangy dressing complements the ingredients beautifully, making it a crowd-pleaser at barbecues, potlucks, or even as a quick side for your weeknight dinners. Whether you’re following a keto diet or simply looking to switch things up, this loaded cauliflower salad will become a go-to favorite.
Ingredients:
Salad:
- 1 head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized pieces (about 8 cups)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ½ cup sliced radishes
- ½ cup diced celery
- ½ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 4 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
Dressing:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 3 tablespoons sweet relish
- 1 teaspoon yellow mustard (or Dijon mustard for a tangier flavor)
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Cauliflower: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the cauliflower florets with olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Spread them evenly on a baking sheet and roast for about 20 minutes or until they are tender but still firm. Allow them to cool.
- Prepare the Bacon: While the cauliflower is roasting, cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Drain on paper towels and crumble the bacon into bite-sized pieces.
- Make the Dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, sweet relish, mustard, and apple cider vinegar until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the dressing’s thickness by adding a little more vinegar or mayonnaise if needed.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the roasted cauliflower, sliced radishes, diced celery, shredded cheddar cheese, green onions, and crumbled bacon. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and carefully mix to ensure all ingredients are thoroughly coated.
- Refrigerate and Enjoy: Let the salad chill in the refrigerator for a minimum of 30 minutes before serving, allowing the flavors to blend beautifully. Serve chilled and enjoy this deliciously creamy and savory cauliflower salad!
Conclusion:
This Creamy Bacon & Cheddar Cauliflower Salad is not just a healthy alternative to potato salad, but a truly delectable dish that offers plenty of texture, taste, and satisfaction. The combination of roasted cauliflower, crisp veggies, and tangy dressing creates a perfect balance of flavors. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or looking for a new side dish, this salad is sure to impress everyone at the table.
Creamy Bacon & Cheddar Cauliflower Salad: A Low-Carb Delight
Ingredients
Salad:
- 1 head of cauliflower cut into bite-sized pieces (about 8 cups)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- ½ cup sliced radishes
- ½ cup diced celery
- ½ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 green onions sliced
- 4 slices of bacon cooked and crumbled
Dressing:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 3 tablespoons sweet relish
- 1 teaspoon yellow mustard or Dijon mustard for a tangier flavor
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Cauliflower: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the cauliflower florets with olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Spread them evenly on a baking sheet and roast for about 20 minutes or until they are tender but still firm. Allow them to cool.
- Prepare the Bacon: While the cauliflower is roasting, cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Drain on paper towels and crumble the bacon into bite-sized pieces.
- Make the Dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, sweet relish, mustard, and apple cider vinegar until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the dressing’s thickness by adding a little more vinegar or mayonnaise if needed.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the roasted cauliflower, sliced radishes, diced celery, shredded cheddar cheese, green onions, and crumbled bacon. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and carefully mix to ensure all ingredients are thoroughly coated.
- Refrigerate and Enjoy: Let the salad chill in the refrigerator for a minimum of 30 minutes before serving, allowing the flavors to blend beautifully. Serve chilled and enjoy this deliciously creamy and savory cauliflower salad!