Craving a fresh and satisfying meal that’s also incredibly healthy? This Greek Style Cauliflower Rice Salad is a vibrant dish packed with Mediterranean flavors. It’s a perfect light lunch or side dish, making healthy cauliflower rice recipes delicious and easy to enjoy.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Cauliflower Rice: Use fresh or frozen.
- Cucumber: English or regular.
- Tomatoes: Cherry or Roma.
- Red Onion: Shallots work too for a milder taste.
- Kalamata Olives: Black olives can be substituted.
- Feta Cheese: Skip for a dairy-free option.
- Fresh Dill & Parsley: Dried herbs can be used in a pinch (use less).
- Lemon: Key for brightness.
- Olive Oil: Extra virgin preferred.
Ingredients:
For the Salad:
- 4 cups cauliflower rice (about 1 medium head)
- 1 cup chopped cucumber
- 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes
- 1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion
- 1/2 cup pitted Kalamata olives, halved
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories per serving: Approximately 210 kcal
- Tools needed: Large mixing bowl, small bowl, whisk, sharp knife, cutting board.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Cauliflower Rice
If using fresh cauliflower, process florets in a food processor until they resemble rice. If using frozen, thaw it thoroughly and pat it dry to remove excess moisture. This ensures your healthy cauliflower rice recipes stay crisp.
2. Chop Your Vegetables and Herbs
Dice the cucumber, halve the cherry tomatoes, thinly slice the red onion, and halve the Kalamata olives. Chop your fresh dill and parsley. Having all your ingredients ready makes assembly simple.
3. Combine Salad Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the prepared cauliflower rice, cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, Kalamata olives, feta cheese (if using), fresh dill, and fresh parsley. Ensure everything is well distributed.
4. Whisk Together the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, and dried oregano. Season with salt and black pepper to your taste. This simple dressing brings all the Greek flavors together.
5. Dress and Serve Your Salad
Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients in the large bowl. Toss everything gently until the cauliflower rice and vegetables are evenly coated. Serve immediately and enjoy this fresh take on healthy cauliflower rice recipes.
Variation Ideas:
- Add grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra protein.
- Include bell peppers (red, yellow, or orange) for more color and crunch.
- Try a sprinkle of mint for an extra fresh flavor.
- Swap feta for crumbled goat cheese for a different tang.
Storage Instructions:
Store leftover Greek Style Cauliflower Rice Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors tend to meld beautifully over time. It’s best served chilled and does not require reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Q: Can I use pre-riced cauliflower?
A: Absolutely! Pre-riced cauliflower, fresh or frozen, works perfectly and saves time.
Q: How do I prevent the salad from getting watery?
A: Ensure your cauliflower rice is thoroughly dried if you’re using frozen, and pat dry fresh vegetables if they seem very wet.
Q: Is this recipe good for meal prep?
A: Yes, it’s excellent for meal prep. Keep the dressing separate and add it just before serving for the best texture.
Q: Can I make this salad dairy-free?
A: Yes, simply omit the feta cheese for a delicious dairy-free version.
Q: What if I don’t have fresh dill or parsley?
A: You can use dried dill and parsley, but use about one-third of the amount as dried herbs are more potent.
Q: Is this a warm or cold salad?
A: This is a cold salad, designed to be refreshing and crisp.