Delightfully Quick and Easy Chilled Summer Salads
Written on
Chilled Summer Salad Series
Welcome back to my series on refreshing summer salads, where I share one delightful chilled recipe at a time. With just my partner and me at home, I aim to create dishes that yield two to four servings. I typically prepare two servings when I'm testing a new recipe and four when I'm confident in its success.
This particular salad was in the testing phase, but it turned out wonderfully. I had about a third of a head of cauliflower leftover from another meal, which inspired this creation. After tasting it, we both agreed this salad was a game changer.
Recipe #2 — Quick and Easy Cauliflower Salad
Salad Ingredients (Serves 2):
- 1/3 head of cauliflower, chopped into bite-sized florets
- 1/2 cup Roma tomato, diced (or halved cherry tomatoes)
- 2 tablespoons black olives, sliced
- 2 tablespoons red onion, finely chopped
Lemon Garlic Vinaigrette Dressing:
- 1 tablespoon plus 2 teaspoons (2 tablespoons) extra virgin olive oil
- A pinch of sea salt
- A few grinds of black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1/2 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (or 1/2 teaspoon dried)
- 1/2 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (or 1/2 teaspoon dried)
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
Instructions:
Microwave the cauliflower florets with a small amount of water for 2 to 3 minutes until just tender. Be cautious not to overcook.
Note: Drain and rinse the cauliflower under cold water in a colander to halt the cooking process and maintain crispness.
In a medium bowl, combine the cauliflower with the remaining salad ingredients.
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the dressing ingredients until well mixed. Pour the dressing over the salad and stir to coat evenly.
Cover and chill in the refrigerator for 1 to 2 hours before serving.
Serve and enjoy!
This colorful cauliflower salad not only tastes great but also looks appealing. It's an excellent option to prepare a day ahead; feel free to double or triple the recipe, as the flavors improve with time.
The Quick and Easy Cauliflower Salad pairs wonderfully with a veggie burger, an avocado and cucumber sandwich, or a hearty veggie wrap.
Simplicity is key in my summer salad recipes. Just gather a few basic ingredients, grab two bowls, a knife, and a cutting board. In no time, you’ll be enjoying this quick and easy salad too! 🥗
Nutritional Insights
Both cauliflower and tomatoes are packed with essential nutrients, including Vitamins C and K, folate, and potassium. Cauliflower is also an excellent source of Vitamin B6, choline, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, and pantothenic acid (Vitamin B5). Together, they offer high fiber content and antioxidants, which can help reduce the risk of cancer and heart disease.
Resources
For more delicious recipes, check out the entire Summer Salad Series linked here. Thank you for stopping by! I’d love to hear about your experiences with these recipes. Your support is greatly appreciated!
Eat Well! Stay Well! Live Well! ~ L
Quick & Easy Recipes With Gordon Ramsay - Explore fast and simple recipes that will elevate your cooking game.
10 MINUTE DINNERS | 5 Tasty & QUICK Recipes - Discover a variety of quick and delicious meals that can be made in just ten minutes.