Ranch cauliflower salad

Ranch Cauliflower Salad

A refreshing low-carb side dish that’s perfect for potlucks, lunches, or light dinners. It features crisp cauliflower, vibrant veggies, and a tangy homemade or store-bought ranch dressing that brings it all together.

total time

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Chill Time: 15–30 minutes (optional, for best flavor)

Servings: 4–6

 Ingredients:

1 medium head cauliflower, chopped into small florets

½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved

½ cup cucumber, diced

¼ red onion, finely diced

½ cup shredded cheddar cheese

¼ cup cooked and crumbled bacon (optional)

2 tbsp chopped fresh chives or green onions

For the Dressing:

½ cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream

¼ cup mayonnaise

1–2 tbsp milk

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp onion powder

1 tsp dried dill (or 1 tbsp fresh)

Salt and black pepper, to taste

* Optional: 1 tbsp lemon juice or vinegar for extra tang

 Notes & Tips:

Shortcut: Use store-bought ranch dressing for convenience.

Make it vegan: Use dairy-free yogurt, vegan mayo, and skip cheese and bacon.

Make it heartier: Add hard-boiled eggs, chickpeas, or cooked chicken for a complete meal.

 Instructions:

 1. Prep the Vegetables

Chop cauliflower into small, bite-size florets. Dice and prep the rest of your vegetables and toppings.

 2. Make the Ranch Dressing

Whisk together all dressing ingredients until smooth. Adjust thickness with milk  if needed.

 3. Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine cauliflower, tomatoes, cucumber, onion, cheese, bacon, and chives. Pour dressing over and toss to coat well.

4. Chill and Serve

Refrigerate for 15–30 minutes for best flavor (optional). Serve cold, garnished with extra herbs or cheese.

Nutritional Information

Calories: 180 kcal

Protein: 6g

Fat: 14g

Carbs: 6g

Fiber: 2g

Sugar: 3g

frequently asked questions

Q: Can I use frozen cauliflower?

A: Not recommended—it can become soggy. Fresh cauliflower keeps the salad crisp.

Q: How long will it keep in the fridge?

A: Up to 3 days in an airtight container. Best eaten within 24 hours for peak crunch.

Q: Can I roast the cauliflower first? 

A: Yes! Roasted cauliflower adds a delicious smoky note. Just let it cool before mixing.

 

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