This Cauliflower Salad is a cool, creamy, and crunchy twist on classic potato salad—without the carbs! Tender cauliflower florets are tossed with sharp cheddar, red onion, and a tangy-sweet dressing made with mayo, vinegar, and Dijon mustard. Finished with optional crispy bacon and fresh parsley, it’s the perfect low-carb side for barbecues, picnics, or everyday meals.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Low-carb & keto-friendly
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Gluten-free and sugar-conscious
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Make-ahead friendly for parties and cookouts
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Loaded with flavor from cheddar, mustard, and bacon
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Perfect for high-protein meal plans or diabetic diets
Ingredients Breakdown
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1 medium cauliflower – Broken into bite-sized florets; a low-carb alternative to potatoes.
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1 cup shredded cheddar – Adds richness and sharp flavor.
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½ cup chopped red onion – For color, crunch, and a mild bite.
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1 cup mayonnaise – Creates the creamy base of the dressing.
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2 tbsp vinegar – Adds brightness and balances the richness.
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1 tbsp Dijon mustard – Gives the dressing a tangy kick.
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1 tsp sugar – Just a touch to balance the acidity.
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Salt & pepper to taste – Enhances and rounds out the flavor.
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½ cup crumbled bacon (optional) – Smoky, salty crunch if you choose to add it.
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¼ cup chopped parsley (optional) – Freshens the dish and adds color.
Tips and Tricks
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Don’t overcook the cauliflower—it should be tender but still firm to hold up in the salad.
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Use full-fat mayo for best flavor and texture.
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Make ahead: This salad tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge.
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Add-ins: Try chopped pickles, celery, or hard-boiled eggs for added texture.
Variations and Customizations
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Keto Version: Omit the sugar or replace it with a keto-friendly sweetener.
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Vegetarian: Leave out the bacon or substitute with smoky roasted chickpeas.
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Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper.
Pairing Suggestions
This creamy cauliflower salad pairs perfectly with:
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Grilled chicken or steak
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Pulled pork sandwiches
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Roasted vegetables
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Summer BBQ spreads and potlucks
Storage Instructions
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Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
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Freezer: Not recommended—mayonnaise-based dressings don’t freeze well.
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Meal Prep: Make a batch ahead and enjoy throughout the week for quick lunches.
Popular Questions
Can I use frozen cauliflower?
Yes, just thaw and lightly steam it until tender before using.
How do I make it dairy-free?
Skip the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
Is this recipe keto?
Yes! With just a few carbs per serving, it’s great for ketogenic meal plans.