Crispy Cauliflower Salad
This crispy cauliflower salad is a delicious, wholesome Mediterranean-style dish. Roasted (or air-fried) cauliflower florets are seasoned until golden and crispy, then tossed with fresh greens, chickpeas, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, herbs, and a tangy lemon-tahini dressing. It’s crunchy, refreshing, and perfect as a light meal or side dish.
⏱️ Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients
For the Crispy Cauliflower:
1 medium cauliflower, cut into small florets
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp cumin powder
1 tsp smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
½ tsp garlic powder
Salt & black pepper, to taste
For the Salad Base:
2 cups arugula or baby spinach
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 small cucumber, diced
1 small red onion, thinly sliced
1 cup cooked chickpeas (or canned, rinsed & drained)
2 tbsp fresh parsley or mint, chopped
¼ cup crumbled feta cheese (optional, for Mediterranean touch)
For the Lemon-Tahini Dressing:
3 tbsp tahini
Juice of 1 lemon
1 tbsp olive oil
1 clove garlic, minced
1–2 tbsp warm water (to thin consistency)
Salt & pepper, to taste
Instructions
1. Prepare the Cauliflower
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) or air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
Toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Spread on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast 20–25 minutes (or air fry 15–18 minutes), flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
2. Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
Add warm water gradually until dressing is creamy but pourable.
3. Assemble the Salad
In a large bowl, combine greens, tomatoes, cucumber, onion, chickpeas, and herbs.
Add the crispy cauliflower on top.
Drizzle with lemon-tahini dressing and sprinkle with feta cheese (if using).
4. Serve
Toss gently and serve immediately while cauliflower is still warm and crispy.
Notes & Tips
For extra crunch, add roasted nuts or seeds (almonds, pistachios, or sunflower seeds).
If you prefer creamy style, add a spoonful of Greek yogurt into the dressing.
Works as a main dish (protein from chickpeas + cauliflower) or as a side with grilled chicken or fish.
❓ Frequently asked questions FAQ
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, but keep cauliflower and dressing separate until serving to maintain crispiness.
Q: Can I make it vegan?
Yes, just skip the feta cheese or use plant-based cheese.
Q: Can I use frozen cauliflower?
Yes, but thaw and pat dry before roasting for best crispiness.
Nutrition Information
Calories: ~280 kcal
Protein: 9g
Fat: 14g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fiber: 8g
Sugar: 6g