Colonel'S Cauliflower Salad
A creamy cauliflower and lettuce salad with Parmesan, bacon, and a sweet mayonnaise dressing, perfect for casual gatherings and family meals with rich, savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Tear the lettuce into bite-sized pieces and cut the cauliflower into small florets.
- In a large bowl, combine the torn lettuce and cauliflower florets.
- In a separate bowl, mix mayonnaise, grated Parmesan cheese, sugar, and chopped Bermuda onion to create the dressing.
- Spoon the dressing over the lettuce and cauliflower, spreading it evenly without tossing.
- Refrigerate the salad until ready to serve.
- When serving, sprinkle the crumbled crisp bacon on top and toss the salad gently to combine.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using Greek yogurt in place of some of the mayonnaise for a tangy twist. You can also substitute with other cheeses like feta or cheddar if Parmesan isn't available. If you're looking for a crunch, try adding sunflower seeds or chopped nuts. Fresh herbs like dill or parsley can elevate the taste further.
Serving Suggestions
This salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats or as a side dish for a summer barbecue. It complements hearty American recipes like Southern Pork Barbecue or a Cheese Club Sandwich perfectly. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a light soup or grilled vegetable platter.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Colonel's Cauliflower Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the crispness of the lettuce and bacon, it’s best to keep the dressing separate until ready to serve. If you need to reheat any components, do so gently to avoid wilting the vegetables.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Colonel'S Cauliflower Salad contains roughly 302 calories, with 13g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (60% of the Daily Value), protein (27% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 493mg per serving (21% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours in advance. Just keep the dressing separate until you're ready to serve to prevent the lettuce from wilting. Assemble the salad and store it in the fridge, then add the dressing just before serving.
What can I use instead of Bermuda onion?
If you can't find Bermuda onion, red onion or sweet onion can be good alternatives. They provide a similar flavor profile but may vary slightly in sweetness. For a milder taste, consider using green onions or chives.
Is there a vegetarian version of this salad?
Absolutely! Simply omit the bacon or replace it with crispy chickpeas or smoked tofu for a savory crunch. The rest of the ingredients are already vegetarian-friendly, making it an easy adaptation for plant-based diets.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).