Description

This Zesty Cauliflower Antipasto Salad is a fresh, low-carb twist on the classic Italian antipasto platter—minus the lettuce, but loaded with flavor! Tender-crisp cauliflower is tossed with savory salami, creamy mozzarella, marinated mushrooms, roasted red peppers, olives, and tangy capers, all dressed in a bold vinaigrette. Perfect as a make-ahead meal prep salad, holiday side dish, or picnic-friendly appetizer, this no-lettuce salad brings big deli-style flavor and satisfying crunch in every bite.

Ingredients

Salad Base:

1 small head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
1/2 cup sliced black olives
1/2 cup roasted red peppers, sliced
1/2 cup marinated mushrooms
1/4 cup capers, drained
1/2 cup mozzarella cubes or provolone chunks
1/2 cup sliced salami or pepperoni
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Zesty Vinaigrette:

1/4 cup olive oil
2 tbsp red wine vinegar
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1 garlic clove, minced
1/2 tsp dried oregano
Salt and black pepper, to taste

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Instructions

Steam the cauliflower: Bring a pot of water to a boil and lightly steam cauliflower florets for 3–4 minutes, just until tender-crisp. Immediately rinse under cold water to stop the cooking. Drain thoroughly and set aside to cool.
Mix the salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled cauliflower with black olives, roasted red peppers, marinated mushrooms, capers, cheese cubes, and sliced salami.
Prepare the vinaigrette: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper until emulsified and well blended.
Toss and chill: Pour the vinaigrette over the salad ingredients and gently toss until everything is evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld.
Garnish and serve: Before serving, stir the salad again and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and herbaceous brightness. Serve chilled.

Notes

Make it vegetarian by omitting the salami and adding artichoke hearts or sun-dried tomatoes.
Can be made 1–2 days in advance—the flavor improves as it chills.
Great as a side dish, party platter addition, or protein-rich lunch option.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
chill time: 1 hour
Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Category: Salad, Side Dish, Appetizer
Method: Steamed, Assembled
Cuisine: Italian-Inspired