Loaded Cauliflower Salad 🥦🥓🧀
Description
This Loaded Cauliflower Salad is a creamy, crunchy, and flavor-packed side dish made with tender cauliflower, crispy bacon, cheddar cheese, red onions, and fresh green onions tossed in a rich, tangy dressing. It’s a low-carb alternative to potato salad and is perfect for picnics, potlucks, BBQs, meal prep, or a light lunch. Every bite is loaded with savory goodness and satisfying textures.
Servings
Serves: 6 people
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into small florets
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup thinly sliced red onion
- 3 green onions, chopped
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional)
Instructions
Step 1
Steam or blanch cauliflower florets for 3–4 minutes until slightly tender but still crisp. Drain and cool completely.
Step 2
In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, vinegar, salt, and pepper.
Step 3
Add cauliflower, bacon, cheddar cheese, red onion, and green onions.
Step 4
Gently toss until everything is evenly coated.
Step 5
Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to blend.
Garnish with parsley and extra bacon before serving.
Notes
- Do not overcook the cauliflower; it should remain slightly crunchy.
- The salad tastes even better after chilling.
- Use freshly cooked bacon for maximum flavor.
Tips
 Pat cauliflower dry to avoid a watery salad.
 Add chopped celery for extra crunch.
 Use turkey bacon for a lighter version.
 Prepare a day ahead for even better flavor.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 280
- Protein: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fat: 23g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 420mg
Approximate values.
Health Benefits
- Cauliflower is rich in fiber and vitamin C.
- Lower in carbohydrates than traditional potato salad.
- Contains protein and calcium from cheese.
- Provides healthy fats that help keep you full.
- A satisfying low-carb and gluten-free dish.
Q&A
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.
Q: Can I make it vegetarian?
Absolutely. Simply omit the bacon.
Q: Can I use frozen cauliflower?
Fresh cauliflower is recommended for the best texture.
Q: What can I serve it with?
It pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, burgers, steak, or barbecue dishes.