Sicilian Cauliflower Salad – Fresh, Zesty, and Bursting with Mediterranean Flavor

This Sicilian Cauliflower Salad is a light and vibrant dish that brings together tender cauliflower, sweet raisins, briny olives, and crunchy almonds, all tossed in a tangy lemon dressing. Packed with color, texture, and bold Mediterranean flavors, it’s the perfect side for grilled meats, seafood, or as a refreshing stand-alone dish. Wholesome, easy to make, and full of character — this salad will quickly become a favorite on your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Fresh and Wholesome – Crisp cauliflower paired with bright herbs and citrus.
Zesty Dressing – Lemon and olive oil make the perfect light and flavorful coating.
Great Texture – Crunchy almonds and chewy raisins keep every bite interesting.
Quick and Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes, no fuss required.

Ingredients

• 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
• ¼ cup golden raisins
• ¼ cup sliced green olives
• ¼ cup slivered almonds, toasted
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh basil
• 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
• 1½ tbsp fresh lemon juice
• ½ tsp lemon zest
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Prep the Cauliflower
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add cauliflower florets and cook for 2–3 minutes until just tender but still crisp. Drain and immediately rinse with cold water to stop cooking. Pat dry.

2. Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.

3. Assemble the Salad
In a large bowl, combine blanched cauliflower, raisins, olives, almonds, parsley, and basil. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss well to coat.

4. Chill and Serve
Let the salad sit for 10–15 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 110
Protein: 3g
Fat: 7g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Sugar: 5g
Fiber: 3g

Tips for Success

• Don’t Overcook the Cauliflower – It should remain slightly crisp for the best texture.
• Soak Raisins if Needed – If your raisins are dry, soak them in warm water for a few minutes before adding.
• Customize It – Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for heat or swap in capers for extra briny flavor.

Why This Recipe Works

Blanching the cauliflower keeps it crisp-tender and mild, allowing the zesty lemon dressing and bold Mediterranean accents to shine. Sweet raisins and crunchy almonds create a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making this salad feel light but deeply satisfying.

This Sicilian Cauliflower Salad is a vibrant, healthy dish that celebrates the flavors of the Mediterranean. With its fresh ingredients, zesty dressing, and delightful textures, it’s a versatile salad you’ll want to make again and again — light enough for lunch, yet elegant enough for entertaining.