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Cozy Loaded Cauliflower Salad with Bacon and Cheddar

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A hearty and comforting salad featuring roasted cauliflower, crispy bacon, sharp cheddar, and a creamy tangy dressing. Perfect for cozy nights or casual get-togethers.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 medium head of cauliflower (about 1.5 pounds / 700 grams), cut into bite-sized florets
  • 6 slices thick-cut bacon, cooked crisp and crumbled
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • ½ cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced
  • ½ cup mayonnaise (full-fat or Greek yogurt as a lighter alternative)
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for roasting cauliflower)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
  2. Rinse the cauliflower and cut into bite-sized florets. Pat dry with a clean towel.
  3. Spread cauliflower florets evenly on the baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and toss gently to coat.
  4. Roast cauliflower for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and slightly crispy on the edges.
  5. While cauliflower roasts, cook bacon slices in a skillet over medium heat until crisp, about 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally. Drain on paper towels and crumble once cool.
  6. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  7. In a large mixing bowl, combine roasted cauliflower, crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar, red onion, and green onions.
  8. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
  9. Let the salad rest for 10 minutes at room temperature to allow flavors to meld. Optionally, chill in the fridge for 15 minutes before serving.

Notes

Do not overcrowd the baking sheet when roasting cauliflower to avoid steaming and sogginess. Cook bacon and roast cauliflower simultaneously to save time. Reserve some bacon and cheese for garnish if desired. For a lighter dressing, substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. Variations include swapping cheddar for pepper jack or gouda, adding cherry tomatoes or roasted nuts, or making it vegetarian by omitting bacon and adding toasted walnuts or roasted chickpeas.

Nutrition

Keywords: cauliflower salad, bacon salad, cheddar cheese, roasted cauliflower, cozy salad, loaded salad, easy salad recipe, low-carb salad

Find it online: https://tastypierecipes.com/cozy-loaded-cauliflower-salad-with-bacon-and-cheddar-recipe-tips/