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Mediterranean Marinated Cauliflower Salad Side

Mediterranean Marinated Cauliflower Salad Side

A crisp, tangy, and herb-packed Mediterranean marinated cauliflower salad side that comes together quickly and gets better as it sits. Perfect for meal prep, summer tables, and healthy eating.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Lunch
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 180

Ingredients
  

  • 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into small florets
  • 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, sliced
  • 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, roughly chopped
  • salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp crumbled feta cheese optional

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Colander

Method
 

  1. Blanch the cauliflower florets in salted boiling water for 2 minutes, then drain and rinse under cold water immediately.
  2. Dry the florets thoroughly by spreading them on a clean towel. Pat dry if needed before marinating.
  3. Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, cumin, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
  4. Add the dry cauliflower to the marinade and toss well to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, ideally 1 hour.
  5. Fold in cherry tomatoes, olives, red onion, and parsley. Toss gently and adjust seasoning to taste.
  6. Top with crumbled feta right before serving if using. Serve cold or at room temperature.

Notes

  • Dry the cauliflower fully after blanching for better marinade absorption.
  • Soak red onion slices in cold water for 10 minutes to reduce sharpness.
  • Add feta and parsley just before serving to keep them fresh.
  • Tastes better the next day after flavors have had time to develop.