Roasted Cauliflower Salad from Cauliflower's features tender, caramelized cauliflower florets tossed with fresh mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, toasted almonds, and a zesty lemon vinaigrette, offering a vibrant and textured dish with a bright, tangy finish.
Equipments
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper (optional)
- Mixing bowls
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Salad spinner or colander
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
- Large salad serving bowl
- Frying pan or skillet (for toasting almonds)
- Tongs or salad servers
Ingredients
- 1 large head cauliflower
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt
- Black pepper
- 5 oz (140g) mixed salad greens
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 1/3 cup sliced almonds
- 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 garlic clove
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
Choosing a fresh, firm head of cauliflower ensures the florets roast evenly and caramelize beautifully, which is key to achieving the salad's signature tender texture and rich flavor. Use high-quality extra-virgin olive oil to enhance the lemon vinaigrette's brightness and bring out the natural sweetness of the roasted vegetables. Toasting the sliced almonds in a dry skillet intensifies their crunch and nutty aroma, providing a delightful contrast to the crisp mixed greens and juicy cherry tomatoes. Make sure to zest the lemon before juicing to incorporate its full citrus flavor into the dressing. You can recreate the vibrant and tangy taste of Roasted Cauliflower Salad from Cauliflower's copycat menu by carefully balancing these fresh ingredients and preparation techniques.
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Line baking sheet with parchment paper (optional).
- Cut cauliflower into bite-sized florets.
- Toss florets in a mixing bowl with 2 tablespoons olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
- Spread cauliflower evenly on baking sheet.
- Roast for 25–30 minutes, turning halfway, until golden and tender.
- Toast sliced almonds in a dry frying pan or skillet over medium heat until golden, stirring frequently.
- Halve cherry tomatoes.
- Wash and dry mixed salad greens using a salad spinner or colander.
- Zest and juice the lemon.
- Mince garlic clove.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together lemon juice, lemon zest, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil, salt, and black pepper to taste.
- In a large salad serving bowl, combine mixed greens, roasted cauliflower, cherry tomatoes, and toasted almonds.
- Drizzle with lemon vinaigrette.
- Toss gently with tongs or salad servers.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
Roasted Cauliflower Salad from Cauliflower's copycat menu highlights tender, caramelized florets paired with mixed greens and toasted almonds. If you don't have cherry tomatoes, grape tomatoes or diced bell peppers can offer a similar burst of sweetness and color. In place of sliced almonds, walnuts or pecans provide a satisfying crunch and complement the lemon vinaigrette well. For toasting nuts, a dry skillet works best to release their natural oils without additional fat. Your lemon juice can be substituted with a splash of vinegar such as apple cider or white wine to maintain the bright acidity in the dressing.
Tips
Make sure to roast cauliflower florets evenly by spreading them in a single layer on the baking sheet to achieve tender, caramelized edges. Toasting the almonds in a dry frying pan requires constant stirring to prevent burning and preserve their nutty flavor. When preparing the vinaigrette, whisk the lemon juice, zest, garlic, mustard, and oil thoroughly to blend all flavors smoothly. Your salad greens should be well-dried using a salad spinner or colander to avoid a soggy texture in the final dish.
Nutritions
Roasted Cauliflower Salad provides a nutritious boost thanks to its high fiber content from tender cauliflower florets and mixed greens, aiding digestion and promoting satiety. The almonds contribute heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, vitamin E, and protein, while cherry tomatoes add antioxidants like lycopene and vitamin C to support immune health. Olive oil and lemon vinaigrette offer anti-inflammatory benefits and enhance nutrient absorption, especially fat-soluble vitamins in the salad. Incorporating this vibrant dish into your meals can help you meet daily vegetable intake and nourish your body with essential vitamins and minerals.
Storage
Store your Roasted Cauliflower Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness, ideally consuming it within 1-2 days to preserve the crispness of the mixed greens and the crunch of the toasted almonds. Keep the lemon vinaigrette separate if possible to prevent the salad from becoming soggy, and add it just before serving. Reheat the roasted cauliflower florets gently in the oven or microwave if desired, but do not reheat the salad greens.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute roasted chickpeas or walnuts for toasted almonds to add different textures and flavors while keeping the salad crunchy. Swap cherry tomatoes for roasted red peppers or sun-dried tomatoes to bring a deeper sweetness and complexity. For a smoky twist, sprinkle smoked paprika on the cauliflower before roasting or drizzle the finished salad with a balsamic glaze instead of lemon vinaigrette. To simplify, you may roast the cauliflower on a foil-lined sheet pan for easier cleanup without affecting the caramelization process.
Allergies
Roasted Cauliflower Salad contains almonds, which are a common tree nut allergen that may trigger reactions in individuals with nut allergies. The garlic and mustard in the vinaigrette can also cause sensitivities or allergic responses in some people. You should always check ingredient labels and inform your server if you have known food allergies before consuming this dish.
Why this recipe?
Roasted Cauliflower Salad from Cauliflower's restaurant captures attention with its perfect balance of smoky, nutty roasted cauliflower and vibrant, fresh greens, creating a satisfying texture and flavor profile. The salad's unique blend of crunchy kale, tangy lemon dressing, and toasted almonds enriches each bite, appealing to health-conscious diners seeking nutrient-dense options. You will find it worth attempting the copycat recipe at home to recreate this wholesome, gourmet experience that combines simplicity with bold, appetizing flavors. This salad's versatility and nutrient-packed ingredients make it a standout, delicious choice for any meal.