Green Olive Cauliflower Salad

There’s something special about warm weather that calls for fresh, vibrant dishes. One of my favorites is the Green Olive Cauliflower Salad. I remember the first time I made it for a summer gathering; the combination of roasted cauliflower and bright green olives was a hit! The moment guests took their first bite, I could see their faces light up with delight. It’s not just a salad; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures. Each ingredient plays a unique role, creating a dish that feels both hearty and refreshing. Whether it’s a picnic, a family barbecue, or just a casual dinner at home, this recipe never disappoints. The earthy notes of roasted cauliflower paired with the briny touch of olives make every forkful a joy. You’ll definitely want to add this to your repertoire!

What Goes Into Green Olive Cauliflower Salad

The ingredients in the Green Olive Cauliflower Salad come together in a delightful harmony. Each component adds to the overall flavor and texture, making it an exceptional dish. The main players include cauliflower, which provides a hearty base, and green olives, which add a briny kick to the mix. Combined with fresh herbs and a zesty dressing, this salad is a celebration of fresh, wholesome ingredients.

• 1 head cauliflower (1 lb): The star of this salad, the cauliflower, becomes wonderfully caramelized when roasted, adding a depth of flavor and a satisfying crunch.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: This rich oil not only enhances the taste but also helps with roasting, ensuring the cauliflower becomes golden and tender.
• 3 to 4 small shallots (peeled and sliced): These add a mild onion flavor that complements the other ingredients beautifully. Roasting shallots brings out their natural sweetness.
• ¼ cup butter: Used to create a luscious dressing, the butter adds richness and helps meld the flavors together.
• ½ cup sliced green olives: The briny, tangy flavor of the olives elevates the dish, bringing a delightful contrast to the roasted vegetables.
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme: Fresh herbs are essential in any salad, and thyme adds an aromatic quality that enhances the overall freshness.
• ¼ cup parsley: Chopped parsley brings a burst of color and adds freshness, balancing the richness of the other ingredients.
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice: This brightens the salad, adding acidity that cuts through the richness and uplifts the flavor.
• 3 tablespoons toasted sunflower seeds: They provide a lovely crunch and nutty flavor, making the salad more satisfying.
• 1 cup cooked sorghum: This hearty grain adds texture and makes the salad more filling without overpowering the other flavors.
• ½ cup shaved parmesan: Creamy and salty, the parmesan is the perfect topping that brings all the elements together.

Step by Step Instructions for Green Olive Cauliflower Salad

Cooking can be an enjoyable adventure. With the Green Olive Cauliflower Salad, you’ll find that each step is straightforward and fulfilling. Let’s dive into the delightful process of creating this vibrant dish!

1. Preheat your oven to 425˚F. This temperature is essential for roasting the cauliflower and shallots to perfection.

2. Begin by cutting the cauliflower into bite-sized pieces. Take your time and ensure they’re uniform in size for even roasting.

3. Place the chopped cauliflower on a sheet tray. Add the sliced shallots, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt. Toss everything together until the cauliflower is well-coated.

4. Roast in the oven, stirring occasionally, until the cauliflower is golden and tender, about 30 minutes. Look for that beautiful caramelization!

5. While the vegetables roast, melt the butter in a small skillet over medium heat. As it melts, it will create a lovely base for the dressing.

6. Add the green olives, thyme, and a pinch of salt to the melted butter. Cook for about 3 to 4 minutes, just until the olives are warmed through. The aroma will be inviting!

7. Once the cauliflower has finished roasting, transfer it to a large mixing bowl. Add the sunflower seeds, parsley, and sorghum. These ingredients will add texture and flavor.

8. Pour the olive-butter mixture over the salad, ensuring everything is well coated. Add the lemon juice and half of the parmesan. Toss gently to combine.

9. Before serving, sprinkle the remaining parmesan on top. This final touch adds a creamy, salty finish that truly elevates the dish.

Change It Up

Feeling adventurous? Let’s explore variations of the Green Olive Cauliflower Salad! Here are some tips to customize this dish to your liking:

• Add Protein: Consider incorporating grilled chicken or chickpeas for an extra protein boost.
• Seasonal Veggies: Feel free to mix in seasonal vegetables like roasted bell peppers or zucchini for added color and flavor.
• Spice It Up: If you like heat, add some red pepper flakes to the roasting mix for a spicy kick.
• Flavor Boost: For an extra punch, drizzle with balsamic reduction before serving.
• Garnish: You can top it with toasted nuts or seeds for added crunch and nutrition.

Side Dish Ideas for Green Olive Cauliflower Salad

When serving the Green Olive Cauliflower Salad, consider these delightful accompaniments to elevate your meal:

• Grilled Fish: Pair this salad with grilled salmon or tilapia for a wholesome dinner option.
• Quinoa Bowl: Serve it alongside a quinoa bowl for a nutrient-packed meal.
• Wrap it Up: Use the salad as a filling in sandwiches or wraps for a fresh twist at lunch.
• Perfect for Picnics: This salad is ideal for outdoor gatherings. It travels well and tastes even better chilled.
• Vegetable Medley: Complement it with a side of roasted seasonal vegetables for a colorful plate.
• Storage Tips: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days in the fridge, maintaining their flavor.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Green Olive Cauliflower Salad is a vibrant, nutritious dish that combines the earthy flavors of roasted cauliflower with the briny kick of olives. It’s not only easy to make but also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at any gathering. I encourage you to give it a try; you might just discover your new favorite salad. Enjoy the fresh flavors and the compliments that come your way when you serve this dazzling dish!

Green Olive Cauliflower Salad

Craving something fresh and vibrant? The Green Olive Cauliflower Salad is your answer! With roasted cauliflower, briny olives, and fresh herbs, this salad is perfect for any occasion. It's not just nutritious and satisfying, but also easy to make. Treat yourself to this delightful dish tonight!

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Salads

Cuisine: American

Calories: 320

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 head cauliflower (1 lb)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 to 4 small shallots (peeled and sliced)
• ¼ cup butter
• ½ cup sliced green olives
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme
• ¼ cup parsley
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 3 tablespoons toasted sunflower seeds
• ¼ cup chopped flat-leaf parsley
• 1 cup cooked sorghum
• ½ cup shaved parmesan

Equipment

• Skillet
• Wooden Spoon
• Oven
• Chef's Knife
• Peeler
• Baking Sheet

Method

 

1. Heat oven to 425˚F.
2. Cut cauliflower into bite-sized pieces.
3. Place on a sheet tray and toss with olive oil, shallots, and salt.
4. Roast, stirring occasionally, until cauliflower is golden, 30 minutes or so.
5. While the cauliflower is roasting, melt butter in a small skillet.
6. Add the green olives, herbs, and salt. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes, just to warm the olives.
7. Turn off the heat and add in the lemon juice.
8. When the cauliflower is done, place in a bowl along with the sunflower seeds, parsley, and sorghum.
9. Add the buttery olives and half the parmesan. Toss well to combine then top with the remaining parmesan before serving.

Notes

Tips:

• Storage: Leftovers can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days.
• Freezing: It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it in an airtight container for up to a month.
• Pairing: This salad goes perfectly with grilled chicken or fish.
• Variations: Add different nuts or seeds to enhance texture.
• Herb Swap: Feel free to swap the thyme for basil or dill for a different flavor.

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Meet Jenna Miller

I’m the one who brought this group together. I’ve always believed that food tastes better when it’s shared, and I wanted to create a space that felt as warm and sunny as our home state. I’m usually the one writing our posts and helping Brooke develop our main course recipes. My favorite days are when we’re all in the kitchen together, music on, cooking up our next idea.