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An overhead close-up shot of the Sicilian cauliflower salad in a serving bowl, highlighting the texture of the cauliflower and colorful ingredients.

Sicilian Cauliflower Salad (Authentic & Easy Recipe)

This vibrant Sicilian Cauliflower Salad features tender cauliflower, briny olives, and a tangy agrodolce vinaigrette. An easy, make-ahead recipe perfect as a side dish or light lunch.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Appetizer, Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: Italian, Mediterranean, Sicilian
Calories: 185
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 large head cauliflower cut into bite-sized florets
  • 1/2 cup red onion thinly sliced
  • 2 stalks celery chopped
  • 1/2 cup Kalamata olives pitted and halved
  • 2 tbsp capers drained
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped
  • 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
  • 1 tsp sugar or to taste
  • 1/2 tsp salt or to taste
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper freshly ground

Equipment

  • 1 Large Pot
  • 1 Large Bowl
  • 1 Whisk

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cauliflower florets and cook for 3-5 minutes until tender-crisp. Drain immediately and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool completely.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled cauliflower, sliced red onion, chopped celery, halved Kalamata olives, and drained capers.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, sugar, salt, and freshly ground black pepper until fully combined.
  4. Pour the vinaigrette over the cauliflower mixture. Add the chopped fresh parsley and toss gently to coat everything evenly. For best results, cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Notes

Don't Overcook: Keep the cauliflower tender-crisp for the best texture.
Marinate is a Must: The salad's flavor deepens and improves as it sits.
Variations: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat, a handful of golden raisins for sweetness, or some toasted pine nuts for crunch.