Roasted Cauliflower Green Goddess Salad
Introduction
Roasted Cauliflower Green Goddess Salad is a delightful dish that combines the earthy flavor of roasted cauliflower with fresh greens and a creamy dressing. It’s a perfect choice for a light lunch, a side dish, or a healthy dinner option. This salad is filled with color, texture, and taste, making it appealing to both your eyes and your palate.
Why Make This Recipe
This salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Cauliflower is high in fiber and vitamins, while the fresh greens provide essential nutrients. The creamy Green Goddess dressing adds a zesty kick that ties the whole dish together, making it a great way to enjoy more vegetables. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and can be made in under an hour!
How to Make Roasted Cauliflower Green Goddess Salad
Making Roasted Cauliflower Green Goddess Salad is straightforward and requires just a few steps. Follow the recipe below for a tasty and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into florets
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 cups mixed salad greens (lettuce, spinach, arugula)
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds, toasted
- 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- Fresh herbs for garnish (chives or parsley)
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt or mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh chives, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh tarragon (or a mix)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them out on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes until they are golden brown and tender, stirring halfway through. Allow the cauliflower to cool slightly after roasting.
- While the cauliflower is roasting, prepare the Green Goddess dressing by mixing Greek yogurt, sour cream, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, parsley, chives, tarragon, salt, and pepper in a bowl until smooth and creamy.
- In a large serving bowl, combine the mixed salad greens, diced avocado, halved cherry tomatoes, and toasted almonds.
- Once the cauliflower has cooled slightly, add it to the salad bowl.
- Drizzle the Green Goddess dressing over the salad and gently toss to coat.
- Garnish with fresh herbs and serve immediately.
How to Serve Roasted Cauliflower Green Goddess Salad
Serve this salad fresh and warm, or let it cool to room temperature. It pairs well with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. You can also enjoy it on its own as a filling lunch.
How to Store Roasted Cauliflower Green Goddess Salad
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat to maintain the freshness of the ingredients. This salad can last for about 2 days in the fridge.
Tips to Make Roasted Cauliflower Green Goddess Salad
- For extra flavor, add a squeeze of lemon juice over the roasted cauliflower before serving.
- Feel free to mix in other vegetables like bell peppers or cucumbers for added crunch and color.
- If you prefer a vegan option, replace Greek yogurt and sour cream with a plant-based alternative.
Variation
You can customize this salad by adding grains like quinoa or farro for more substance. Sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds can also be a great addition for a nut-free alternative.
FAQs
1. Can I make the dressing ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the Green Goddess dressing a day in advance. Just store it in the fridge until you’re ready to use it.
2. Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients in this salad are gluten-free, making it a safe choice for those with gluten sensitivities.
3. Can I use frozen cauliflower?
While fresh cauliflower works best for roasting, you can use frozen cauliflower. Just make sure to thaw and thoroughly drain it before roasting to avoid excess moisture.
Enjoy making and sharing this Roasted Cauliflower Green Goddess Salad with family and friends!
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