Roasted Cauliflower Salad
A warm salad of spiced roasted cauliflower and onion, bright herbs, crunchy peanuts, and a simple tangy dressing. Delicious served warm or at room temperature.
Prep Time15 minutes mins
Cook Time25 minutes mins
Total Time40 minutes mins
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Indian
Keyword: Roasted Cauliflower Salad
Servings: 2 People
Calories: 293kcal
For the Salad:
- 1 small cauliflower with leaves about 500 g
- 1 small red onion cut into chunks
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon chaat masala
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons blanched peanuts
- 2 spring onions finely sliced
- 1 small bunch fresh coriander roughly chopped
For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons cider vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1 pinch freshly ground black pepper
Prepare the Vegetables:
Cut the cauliflower into bite-sized florets.
Tear or slice any tender leaves.
Place the cauliflower and red onion in the roasting tin.
Season:
Sprinkle over salt, chili powder, and chaat masala.
Drizzle with vegetable oil.
Mix everything well so the vegetables are evenly coated.
Roast:
Roast for 20 minutes.
Remove the tray, toss the vegetables, and return to the oven.
Roast for another 10–15 minutes until golden and tender.
Toast the Peanuts:
While the vegetables roast, heat a small frying pan over low-medium heat.
Add the peanuts.
Toast for 3–4 minutes until golden and fragrant.
Transfer to a mortar and pestle.
Lightly crush.
Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, vinegar (or lemon juice), honey, and black pepper.
Assemble the Salad:
Tip the roasted cauliflower and onion into a serving bowl.
Add sliced spring onions, chopped coriander, and crushed peanuts.
Pour over the dressing.
Toss gently to combine.
Ingredient swaps:
- Replace almonds with sunflower seeds for nut-free option
- Add roasted chickpeas for protein boost
- Use lime instead of lemon for sharper flavor
Technique tips:
- Spread florets in single layer for even roasting
- Do not overcrowd tray — roast in two batches if needed
- Toss halfway for even golden edges
Make-ahead and storage:
- Roast cauliflower ahead, store up to 2 days in fridge
- Assemble salad fresh before serving
- Dressing can be stored separately for up to 3 days
Serving ideas:
- Serve as a light lunch with flatbread
- Pair with grilled paneer or tofu for a fuller meal
- Add to a festive spread alongside curries and dals
Twist ideas:
- Spicier: Add smoked paprika or chili flakes
- Tangier: Use a yogurt dressing instead of lemon oil
- Fusion: Toss with quinoa or couscous for a grain bowl
- Festive: Garnish with dried cranberries and pistachios
Calories: 293kcal | Carbohydrates: 10g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 28g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 9g | Monounsaturated Fat: 13g | Trans Fat: 0.1g | Cholesterol: 4mg | Sodium: 187mg | Potassium: 161mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 6g | Vitamin A: 272IU | Vitamin C: 6mg | Calcium: 27mg | Iron: 1mg