Description
A refreshing and creamy Ranch Cauliflower Salad that combines fresh cauliflower florets, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and turkey bacon with a flavorful homemade ranch dressing. Perfectly chilled and tossed with fresh herbs, this salad makes an ideal low-carb side dish or a light, healthy snack.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup cooked, diced turkey bacon or turkey sausage
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped
Ranch Dressing Ingredients
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 teaspoon dried dill
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the salad ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cauliflower florets, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, cooked turkey bacon or sausage, fresh parsley, and fresh chives. Mix gently to distribute the ingredients evenly.
- Make the ranch dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream or Greek yogurt, dried dill, dried parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency.
- Toss the salad with dressing: Pour the prepared ranch dressing over the vegetable mixture. Toss everything gently but thoroughly until the cauliflower and other ingredients are well coated with the dressing.
- Chill and meld flavors: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the salad to chill nicely, enhancing the taste and texture.
- Serve: Serve the Ranch Cauliflower Salad cold as a light, healthy snack or a refreshing side dish to complement your meal.
Notes
- Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a tangier taste and added protein.
- Cook turkey bacon or sausage ahead of time and chill before adding to the salad for best flavor and texture.
- Adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice to suit your taste preferences.
- This salad can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days but is best fresh.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the turkey bacon or substitute with crispy smoked tempeh.
