Description
A fresh and creamy Ranch Cauliflower Salad combining crunchy cauliflower with vibrant cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and savory turkey bacon, all tossed in a flavorful homemade ranch dressing. Perfect as a light, healthy side dish or snack, this salad is quick to prepare and refreshing.
Ingredients
Scale
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
- Combine the Vegetables and Turkey Bacon: In a large bowl, add the bite-sized cauliflower florets, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, finely chopped red onion, cooked and diced turkey bacon or turkey sausage, chopped fresh parsley, and chopped fresh chives. Gently mix to distribute the ingredients evenly.
- Prepare 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 the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Toss the Salad with Dressing: Pour the prepared ranch dressing over the mixed vegetables and turkey bacon. Toss gently to coat all ingredients thoroughly with the dressing, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
- Chill the Salad: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes. This rest period allows the flavors to meld together for a more delicious and cohesive taste.
- Serve: Serve the Ranch Cauliflower Salad chilled, either as a refreshing side dish or a light, healthy snack that’s packed with flavor and texture.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, omit the turkey bacon or substitute with a plant-based bacon alternative.
- Using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream lowers the fat content and adds protein.
- The salad can be prepared a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator for enhanced flavor.
- Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the dressing for a spicy kick.
