Description
A vibrant and nutritious vegan salad featuring crunchy cauliflower florets, creamy cashews, and protein-rich quinoa, all tossed in a zesty lemon and sumac dressing. This colorful confetti salad is easy to prepare, perfect for a light meal or a refreshing side dish.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Ingredients
- 1 head Cauliflower (Chopped into small florets)
- 1 cup Cashews (Creamy crunch, can substitute with sunflower seeds)
- 1 cup Quinoa (Rinsed and cooked)
Dressing Ingredients
- 1 tsp Shallot Salt (Regular salt can be used)
- 1 tsp Sumac (Substitute with lemon zest if unavailable)
- 3 Tbsp Lemon Juice (Can replace with vinegar)
- 2 Tbsp Olive Oil (Omit for oil-free version)
Instructions
- Cook Quinoa: Rinse the quinoa under cold water thoroughly to remove any bitterness. Cook according to package instructions, usually by boiling in water until tender. Set aside and allow the quinoa to cool completely before mixing.
- Prepare Cauliflower: Chop the cauliflower into small, bite-sized florets. For a colorful and festive look, use a mix of white, purple, and orange cauliflower if available.
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled quinoa, chopped cauliflower florets, and cashews. Mix gently to distribute the ingredients evenly.
- Make Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, shallot salt, sumac, and olive oil until well emulsified and combined.
- Toss Salad with Dressing: Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad mixture. Toss gently to coat all ingredients with the dressing evenly, ensuring all flavors meld together.
- Serve or Store: Serve the salad immediately for maximum crispness and freshness, or refrigerate for 15-30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld before serving.
Notes
- For a nut-free option, substitute cashews with sunflower seeds.
- Sumac adds a unique tart flavor; if unavailable, lemon zest is a great substitute.
- Olive oil can be omitted for an oil-free, lower-fat version.
- This salad is best served fresh but can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Using mixed colored cauliflower not only enhances presentation but provides a range of nutrients.
