This easy Cauliflower Salad recipe is loaded with bacon, red onion, and a sweet lemon basil dressing that ties it all together. It’s the perfect make-ahead side dish for potlucks, barbecues, or any weeknight dinner.
Our Cauliflower Salad deserves the hype!
Our Cauliflower Salad deserves the hype!I love everything about this simple cauliflower salad recipe; It’s fresh, crunchy, and loaded with flavor thanks to the crispy bacon, sharp red onion, and the most delicious sweet lemon basil dressing that ties it all together. This recipe comes from my Mom and whether I’m bringing it to a potluck or serving it with dinner at home, it’s always a hit! People go back for seconds and always ask for the recipe.
Don't miss my other easy side dish recipes like Orzo Salad, Grilled Sweet Potatoes, Rice Pilaf, and Shredded Brussels Sprouts!
How to make Cauliflower Salad:
Cut Cauliflower: Remove the leaves, then cut around the stem to release the florets. Slice any large pieces into bite-sized chunks.
Prepare the Dressing: Whisk together all dressing ingredients until smooth. Cover and refrigerate. (It can be made several days in advance.)
Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the cauliflower, bacon, and onion. Drizzle with your desired amount of dressing and toss to coat. Add the lettuce and gently toss again until everything is evenly combined. Serve this old fashioned cauliflower salad immediately and enjoy!
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Recipe
Cauliflower Salad
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 head romaine lettuce , chopped, or any leafy greens
- 1 head cauliflower , cored, chopped
- 1/4 of a red onion , chopped, or sweet onion, more if desired
- 8-10 slices cooked bacon , chopped
Dressing:
- 1 cup mayonnaise (240g), (or ½ mayo, ½ Greek yogurt)
- 1/4 cup fresh squeezed lemon juice (60mL)
- 1-2 Tablespoons granulated sugar , to taste
- 1 Tablespoon dried basil
- 2 teaspoons prepared yellow mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- dash nutmeg
- fresh cracked black pepper , to taste
Instructions
- Mix dressing ingredients together. For best results, refrigerate dressing for at least an hour or up to 5 days ahead of time.1 cup mayonnaise, ¼ cup fresh squeezed lemon juice, 1-2 Tablespoons granulated sugar, 1 Tablespoon dried basil, 2 teaspoons prepared yellow mustard, ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce, dash nutmeg, fresh cracked black pepper
- Add salad ingredients to a bowl. Toss with desired amount of dressing. Enjoy.1 head romaine lettuce, 1 head cauliflower, ¼ of a red onion, 8-10 slices cooked bacon
Notes
- Vegetarian Cauliflower Salad: Leave out the bacon.
- Add more veggies: Try adding shredded Brussels sprouts, chopped broccoli or carrots with the cauliflower for some extra crunch!
Nutrition
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I originally shared this recipe April 2013. Updated July 2021 and September 2021.
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Holy crap! That dressing was legit! WOW! Thank you for sharing this treasure of a recipe!
Dry mustard or French liquid mustard ?
Can broccoli be substituted?
I think that would work!
It was so delish! The dressing is out of this world and SO easy. Thank you!!!!
Are you using dry mustard or prepared, such as French’s? Can make a huge difference!
Prepared!
This reminds me of being close to broccoli salad taste wise. It’s all good and I’m making this for Easter.
I did add hard sharp cheddar cheese cut in small chunks. I have sunflower seeds for those that wish to add that.
It is very good!!!!
Delicious and great looking! Never knew what to do with cauliflower. This sure dresses it up. Breaking florets really small, as recommended, is an important step. I will make it again!
These are all great recipes and easy to make,plus don’t contain any exotic ingredients most people havenever even heard of.
Want to make this recipe. Will post after I do. Sounds delicious 😋
Had this at a big family gathering, and it was a hit! So very yummy! You have the best recipes! Thank you for all your hard work and sharing them with us!
This looks yummy! How many servings does this recipe make? Thanks!