Creamy BLT Cauliflower Salad

If you’re a fan of the classic BLT sandwich but want to switch things up with a healthier, low-carb twist, then Creamy BLT Cauliflower Salad is the recipe you’ve been waiting for! Picture crispy bacon, juicy tomatoes, and a creamy dressing, all perfectly paired with the subtle crunch of cauliflower. It’s like taking all the best parts of a BLT and turning them into a guilt-free salad that’s fresh, satisfying, and full of flavor. Trust me, this one will become your new favorite!

This salad is the perfect side dish for summer barbecues, weeknight dinners, or even just as a light and refreshing lunch. The cauliflower mimics the crunch of lettuce, while the creamy dressing binds everything together beautifully. You’ll be reaching for seconds before you know it!

Why You’ll Love Creamy BLT Cauliflower Salad

Low-Carb and Keto-Friendly: This salad is made with cauliflower instead of lettuce, making it a perfect choice for anyone following a low-carb or ketogenic diet. You get all the flavor of a BLT without the bread or heavy carbs.

Creamy and Flavorful: The creamy dressing is rich and tangy, making every bite a little indulgent. The combination of mayo and sour cream adds just the right amount of creaminess, while the bacon and tomatoes bring a burst of savory flavor.

Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in no time—just a bit of chopping, mixing, and you’re ready to serve. It’s a great option for a quick weeknight meal or a dish you can make ahead for meal prep.

Customizable: If you’re not a fan of cauliflower or want to switch things up, you can also use broccoli or even a combination of both! You can also adjust the amount of bacon and tomatoes to fit your taste.

Crowd-Pleasing: Whether you’re hosting a party, attending a potluck, or just having dinner at home, this creamy BLT cauliflower salad will be the hit of the table. It’s the kind of dish that’s easy to share and guaranteed to impress.

Ingredients in Creamy BLT Cauliflower Salad

Let’s dive into the ingredients that bring this tasty salad to life:

• Cauliflower: The star of the dish, cauliflower provides a crisp, fresh texture that mimics the crunch of lettuce.
• Bacon: Crispy bacon adds that savory, smoky flavor that’s essential to the classic BLT combo.
• Tomatoes: Juicy, ripe tomatoes add sweetness and freshness to the salad.
• Mayonnaise: The creamy base for the dressing, giving the salad its rich, smooth texture.
• Sour Cream: Adds a tangy twist to the dressing and makes it extra creamy.
• Lemon Juice: For a little brightness and acidity to balance out the richness.
• Garlic Powder: Adds an extra layer of flavor to the creamy dressing.
• Salt & Pepper: To taste, enhancing the overall flavor of the salad.
• Chopped Green Onions (optional): For a fresh, mild onion flavor that complements the other ingredients.

(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cauliflower

Start by cutting the cauliflower into small florets. If you prefer, you can steam the cauliflower lightly for a softer texture, but raw cauliflower works perfectly here for that crunchy bite.

2. Cook the Bacon

In a large skillet, cook the bacon until crispy. Once cooked, remove it from the pan and place it on a paper towel to drain any excess fat. Once cooled, crumble the bacon into bite-sized pieces.

3. Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until the dressing is smooth and well-mixed. Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed.

4. Combine Everything

In a large mixing bowl, add the cauliflower florets, crumbled bacon, and chopped tomatoes. Pour the creamy dressing over the top and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.

5. Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired, and serve chilled. Enjoy the refreshing, creamy, and crunchy goodness!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6
Calories per serving: 210
Total Fat: 17g

• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
  Cholesterol: 30mg
  Sodium: 480mg
  Total Carbohydrates: 6g
• Dietary Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 3g
  Protein: 7g
  Vitamin A: 4%
  Vitamin C: 60%
  Calcium: 3%
  Iron: 2%

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes (for bacon)
Total Time: 25 minutes (plus chilling time)

How to Serve Creamy BLT Cauliflower Salad

• As a Side Dish: This salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats like chicken, steak, or fish.
• On Its Own: Enjoy it as a light lunch or snack. It’s refreshing and filling all on its own.
• At a Potluck or BBQ: This salad is perfect for parties, potlucks, or barbecues, and it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
• Meal Prep: Make it ahead of time for a quick lunch option during the week. It holds up well in the fridge for a few days.

Additional Tips

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The salad may get a little softer as it sits, but it still tastes great!

Adjusting the Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter dressing, you can reduce the amount of mayo and sour cream and add a little Greek yogurt for extra tang.

Extra Veggies: Feel free to add extra veggies like cucumber or bell peppers for more crunch and color.

Make it Dairy-Free: To make this recipe dairy-free, swap the sour cream and mayonnaise with dairy-free alternatives such as coconut yogurt and a plant-based mayo.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I make this salad ahead of time?

A1: Yes! It’s actually better when it sits for a while, as the flavors have time to meld. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container in the fridge.

Q2: Can I use frozen cauliflower for this recipe?

A2: While fresh cauliflower works best for this salad, you can use frozen cauliflower. Be sure to thaw it and drain any excess water before using it in the salad.

Q3: How can I make the dressing less creamy?

A3: If you prefer a lighter dressing, you can substitute some of the mayo or sour cream with plain Greek yogurt or buttermilk for a tangy flavor.

Q4: Can I add more veggies to this salad?

A4: Absolutely! Feel free to add extra veggies like cucumbers, bell peppers, or even some shredded carrots for added crunch and color.

Q5: Can I make this salad spicy?

A5: Yes! You can add some chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the dressing for a spicy kick.

Q6: How do I store the leftover salad?

A6: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The salad will keep its flavor, though the cauliflower may soften a bit.

Q7: Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?

A7: Yes, you can use turkey bacon for a leaner option. It will still add a delicious savory flavor to the salad.

Q8: How do I get crispy bacon?

A8: To get perfectly crispy bacon, bake it in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes or cook it in a pan over medium heat, flipping it occasionally to ensure even crispiness.

Q9: Can I add some cheese to the salad?

A9: Yes! Crumbled feta, cheddar, or Parmesan would be great additions to this salad for a cheesy twist.

Q10: Is this salad gluten-free?

A10: Yes, this salad is naturally gluten-free! Just make sure that the mayo and sour cream you use are gluten-free, as some brands may contain gluten.

Conclusion

Creamy BLT Cauliflower Salad is a delightful twist on the classic BLT, minus the bread and carbs. With crispy bacon, juicy tomatoes, and a creamy, tangy dressing, this salad will become a regular in your meal rotation. It’s fresh, filling, and full of flavor, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it as a side, a light lunch, or for meal prep, this recipe will surely win everyone over. Try it out and enjoy the creamy, crunchy goodness!

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