Description
A vibrant Roasted Cauliflower Salad with crunchy toasted almonds and sweet, juicy cherries, tossed in a tangy lemon honey dressing. This colorful and nourishing salad combines the warm, tender flavor of roasted cauliflower with fresh herbs and a satisfying nutty crunch, perfect for any season or occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Ingredients
- 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
- 1 cup fresh pitted cherries
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or mint
Dressing
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (plus extra for roasting)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon honey (or maple syrup for vegan option)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Cauliflower: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss the cauliflower florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread evenly on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes until tender and lightly golden on the edges.
- Toast the Almonds: While the cauliflower roasts, heat a dry skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced almonds and toast, stirring frequently, for 3-5 minutes until golden and fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, honey (or maple syrup), salt, and freshly ground black pepper until well combined and slightly emulsified.
- Assemble the Salad: Once the roasted cauliflower has cooled slightly, transfer it to a large bowl. Add toasted almonds, pitted cherries, and chopped fresh herbs. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine evenly.
- Final Touches: Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed. Serve immediately to enjoy the warm-cool contrast and crisp textures.
Notes
- Cut cauliflower into uniform pieces for even roasting.
- Always toast nuts to enhance flavor and crunch.
- Use fresh cherries for juiciness and vibrant color.
- Add dressing just before serving to keep the salad fresh and crunchy.
- This salad can be served slightly warm or at room temperature.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Roasted cauliflower salad, almonds, cherries, healthy salad, vegetarian salad, gluten free salad, quick salad, seasonal salad