Dill Pickle Salad with Cauliflower Recipe

Introduction

This Dill Pickle Salad with Cauliflower is a tangy, crunchy dish perfect for a refreshing side. The combination of cauliflower and pickles with a creamy dill dressing makes it both flavorful and satisfying.

Ingredients

• 5 cups cauliflower florets
• ¼ cup pickle juice
• ¾ cup pickles, sliced
• ⅔ cup cheddar cheese, diced
• 3 tablespoons white onion, finely diced
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill
• ⅔ cup mayonnaise
• ⅓ cup sour cream
• 4 tablespoons pickle juice
• ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Step 1: Toss the cauliflower florets with ¼ cup pickle juice and let them sit for about 5 minutes. Then drain and discard the pickle juice.
2. Step 2: In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, 4 tablespoons pickle juice, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create the dressing.
3. Step 3: In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower, sliced pickles, diced cheddar cheese, finely diced onion, fresh dill, and the dressing until everything is well coated.
4. Step 4: Refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Tips & Variations

• For extra crunch, add chopped celery or radishes to the salad.
• Use dill pickle relish instead of sliced pickles for a different texture.
• If you prefer a spicier kick, increase the cayenne pepper slightly or add a dash of hot sauce.

Storage

Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir well before serving and enjoy chilled. The cauliflower may soften over time but will still retain its flavor.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cauliflower for this salad?

It’s best to use fresh cauliflower for a crisp texture. If using frozen, thaw thoroughly and pat dry to avoid excess moisture.

Is this salad suitable for a low-carb diet?

Yes, this salad is low in carbohydrates and makes a great option for low-carb and keto-friendly meals.

Dill Pickle Salad with Cauliflower Recipe

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5 from 143 reviews

This Dill Pickle Salad with Cauliflower is a crisp and tangy side dish featuring fresh cauliflower florets marinated in pickle juice and mixed with sharp cheddar, crunchy pickles, and a creamy dill-infused dressing. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a refreshing summer salad, this recipe combines bold flavors with a satisfying crunch.

• Author: Luna
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Salad
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

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Salad

• 5 cups cauliflower florets
• ¼ cup pickle juice (for marinating)
• ¾ cup pickles, sliced
• ⅔ cup cheddar cheese, diced
• 3 tablespoons white onion, finely diced
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill

Dressing

• ⅔ cup mayonnaise
• ⅓ cup sour cream
• 4 tablespoons pickle juice
• ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Marinate Cauliflower: Toss the cauliflower florets with ¼ cup of pickle juice and let them sit for about 5 minutes to absorb the tangy flavor. Then drain and discard the pickle juice.
2. Prepare Dressing: In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, 4 tablespoons of pickle juice, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated to create a creamy, tangy dressing.
3. Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, toss together the marinated cauliflower, sliced pickles, diced cheddar cheese, finely diced white onion, fresh dill, and the prepared dressing until everything is evenly coated.
4. Chill: Refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to meld and develop fully.

Notes

• For best flavor, use freshly chopped dill rather than dried.
• You can adjust the cayenne pepper to your desired spice level or omit it for a milder salad.
• If you prefer a dairy-free version, substitute the mayonnaise and sour cream with vegan alternatives and use dairy-free cheese.
• This salad can be made a day ahead to enhance flavor infusion.
• Use a sharp or extra-sharp cheddar for a more pronounced cheese flavor.

Keywords: dill pickle salad, cauliflower salad, tangy salad, cheddar cheese salad, no-cook side dish, pickle juice marinade