Description
This Cauliflower Salad with Pepperoncini is a crunchy, zesty, and refreshing side dish perfect for low-carb and keto diets. With tender cauliflower, pickled peppers, and a tangy dressing, it’s easy to prepare and bursting with Italian-inspired flavor — great for picnics, potlucks, or a light lunch.
Ingredients
1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into small florets 1/2 cup sliced pepperoncini (mild or hot) 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste Optional additions: 1/4 cup chopped dates 1/4 cup toasted pistachios or almonds 1/4 cup crumbled feta or goat cheese A pinch of crushed red pepper flakes
Instructions
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Blanch cauliflower florets for 2–3 minutes until crisp-tender. Drain and transfer to an ice bath. Drain again and pat dry. 2. In a large bowl, combine cooled cauliflower, pepperoncini, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and parsley. 3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. 4. Pour dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat evenly. Adjust seasoning to taste. 5. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving. Garnish with optional dates, pistachios, feta, or red pepper flakes if desired.
Notes
• Blanch lightly to keep the cauliflower crisp. • Chill before serving for best flavor. • Add creative toppings like dates and pistachios for extra texture. • Adjust pepperoncini heat level to your taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Blanch
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: cauliflower salad with pepperoncini, keto salad vegetarian, low carb cauliflower salad, cauliflower salad with dates and pistachios, cauliflower recipes salads, pickled cauliflower salad