Name: Cauliflower Cashew Confetti Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Vegan
Ingredients: 3 cloves garlic, peeled and finely minced; 1 large shallot, peeled and finely minced; Juice of 1 lemon; 1 tablespoon maple syrup; 1 teaspoon sumac; 1 teaspoon shallot salt; 1 head purple cauliflower, cored and chopped; 1 head orange cauliflower, cored and chopped; 2 Granny Smith apples, cored and chopped; ¾ cup cooked quinoa; ½ cup cashews, chopped

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This salad is a beautiful mix of textures and flavors. The purple and orange cauliflower provide a stunning color contrast, while the Granny Smith apples bring a crisp, tart bite. The quinoa adds protein and heartiness, and the cashews offer a satisfying crunch. The garlic shallot dressing, with its bright lemon juice and tangy sumac, ties everything together with its bold and savory flavors. It’s perfect as a side dish or a light main course!

Ingredients

For the Garlic Shallot Dressing:

3 cloves garlic, peeled and finely minced
1 large shallot, peeled and finely minced
Juice of 1 lemon
1 tablespoon maple syrup
1 teaspoon sumac
1 teaspoon shallot salt

For the Cauliflower Cashew Confetti Salad:

1 head purple cauliflower, cored and chopped
1 head orange cauliflower, cored and chopped
2 Granny Smith apples, cored and chopped
¾ cup cooked quinoa
½ cup cashews, chopped

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

For the Dressing:

In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, minced shallot, lemon juice, maple syrup, sumac, and shallot salt.
Whisk the ingredients together until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If you prefer a sweeter dressing, add a little more maple syrup.

For the Salad:

In a large bowl, combine the chopped purple and orange cauliflower. Toss gently to mix the colors evenly.
Add the chopped Granny Smith apples, cooked quinoa, and chopped cashews to the cauliflower mixture. Toss everything together.

Assembling the Salad:

Drizzle the garlic shallot dressing over the cauliflower mixture and toss gently until everything is well coated.
Serve immediately, or chill for a few minutes in the fridge for a cooler salad.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves about 4 people as a main dish or 6 as a side. Prep time is about 15 minutes, and there is no cooking involved except for the quinoa, which can be cooked ahead of time.

Variations

Add protein: For extra protein, you can top this salad with grilled chicken, chickpeas, or tofu.
Spicy kick: Add a dash of chili flakes or a chopped jalapeño to the dressing for some heat.
Nuts and seeds: If you want more crunch, you can add sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds along with the cashews.
Vegan version: This recipe is naturally vegan-friendly!

Storage/Reheating

This salad is best served fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The apples may brown slightly, so it’s best to eat it soon after making it. Keep the dressing separate if you want to store it for longer.

FAQs

1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the cauliflower, quinoa, and apples ahead of time and assemble the salad just before serving. The dressing can also be made in advance and stored in the fridge.

2. Can I use different types of cauliflower?

Yes! You can use white cauliflower, or even other colored varieties like green or yellow cauliflower for a fun twist.

3. Can I substitute the quinoa with another grain?

Yes, you can substitute the quinoa with couscous, farro, or even rice for a different texture.

4. How do I prevent the apples from browning?

To prevent the apples from browning, toss them in a little lemon juice before adding them to the salad.

5. Can I make this salad spicier?

Yes! To add some spice, you can add chili flakes to the dressing or include a diced jalapeño in the salad.

6. How long will the dressing last in the fridge?

The dressing can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Just give it a good stir before using it again.

7. Can I use a different nut instead of cashews?

Yes, you can use almonds, walnuts, or pecans for a different flavor and crunch.

8. Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, this salad is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.

9. Can I add more vegetables to the salad?

Absolutely! You can add other vegetables such as carrots, bell peppers, or cucumber for more crunch and color.

10. How can I make the salad more filling?

To make this salad more filling, you can add grilled chicken, chickpeas, or roasted sweet potatoes to the mix.

Conclusion

This Cauliflower Cashew Confetti Salad with Garlic Shallot Dressing is a beautiful and flavorful dish that combines a variety of textures and vibrant colors. The combination of roasted cauliflower, quinoa, apples, and cashews is enhanced by the tangy, savory dressing, making it a perfect addition to any meal. Whether served as a side or a main, this salad is a healthy, satisfying, and visually stunning dish that everyone will enjoy!