Roasted Cauliflower Salad with Quinoa & Garlic Yogurt: A Flavorful, Healthy Delight
This Roasted Cauliflower Salad with Quinoa & Garlic Yogurt recipe combines the earthy, nutty flavors of roasted cauliflower with the protein-packed goodness of quinoa, all topped off with a rich and creamy garlic yogurt dressing. Itโs a delightful appetizer or side dish, perfect for a light yet satisfying meal. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or preparing a wholesome weeknight dinner, this dish will surely impress your guests while offering a burst of flavor with every bite.
Ingredients for Roasted Cauliflower Salad with Quinoa & Garlic Yogurt
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cauliflower (gobi), cut into medium florets | 2 cups |
| Paprika powder | 1 tablespoon |
| Dried oregano | 1 tablespoon |
| Black pepper powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil (for cooking) | As needed |
| Quinoa | 1 cup |
| Red chili flakes | 2 teaspoons |
| Mixed herbs (dried) | 2 teaspoons |
| Salt | To taste |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Hung curd (Greek yogurt) | 1 cup |
| Garlic, finely chopped | 8 cloves |
| Lemon juice | 1 tablespoon |
| Fresh pomegranate fruit kernels | 1/4 cup |
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings
- Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine
- Type: Continental
- Course: Appetizer
- Diet: Vegetarian
Step-by-Step Instructions for Roasted Cauliflower Salad with Quinoa & Garlic Yogurt
-
Prepare the Ingredients:
Begin by prepping all your ingredients. Cut the cauliflower into medium-sized florets, chop the garlic finely, measure out the quinoa, and gather all the seasoning components. Once everything is ready, set the ingredients aside. -
-
Roast the Cauliflower:
Heat a pan over medium heat and add a little extra virgin olive oil. Add the cauliflower florets to the pan and sprinkle with salt. Roast the cauliflower until it becomes tender, yet firm and lightly browned, which should take about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even roasting. -
Cook the Quinoa:
In a pressure cooker, add 1 cup of quinoa along with 1 cup of water and salt to taste. Close the lid and cook the quinoa for 3-4 whistles. Once done, allow the pressure to release naturally. Once the quinoa has cooled slightly, transfer it to a large serving bowl. -
Season the Quinoa:
To the cooked quinoa, add the red chili flakes and mixed herbs. Stir the quinoa thoroughly to combine and evenly distribute the seasoning. Set aside. -
Prepare the Garlic Yogurt Dressing:
In a mixing bowl, combine the hung curd (Greek yogurt) with olive oil, finely chopped garlic, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Stir well until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. This garlic yogurt dressing will add a zesty and creamy layer to the salad. -
Assemble the Salad:
Start by spreading the seasoned quinoa in a serving platter or individual bowls. Layer the roasted cauliflower on top of the quinoa. Drizzle generously with the garlic yogurt dressing. Finally, sprinkle fresh pomegranate kernels over the top to add a pop of color and a burst of sweetness. -
Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the Roasted Cauliflower Salad with Quinoa & Garlic Yogurt as a refreshing appetizer or light meal. This dish pairs wonderfully with creamy pastas or soups, such as Creamy Chicken Pesto Spaghetti Pasta or a Light and Creamy Broccoli Soup.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 290 kcal |
| Protein | 10g |
| Carbohydrates | 36g |
| Dietary Fiber | 6g |
| Sugars | 5g |
| Fat | 12g |
| Saturated Fat | 1.5g |
| Cholesterol | 5mg |
| Sodium | 210mg |
| Potassium | 400mg |
| Vitamin A | 10% DV |
| Vitamin C | 40% DV |
| Calcium | 6% DV |
| Iron | 15% DV |
Cooking Tips:
- Quinoa Substitute: If you prefer, you can use couscous or farro instead of quinoa for a different texture and flavor.
- Cauliflower Roasting: You can also roast the cauliflower in the oven at 400ยฐF for 20-25 minutes if you prefer a more hands-off approach.
- Garlic Yogurt: For an extra kick, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a small amount of freshly grated ginger to the garlic yogurt dressing.
- Pomegranate Substitution: If pomegranates are out of season, consider using fresh cranberries or even sliced apples for a sweet touch.
Serving Suggestions:
This Roasted Cauliflower Salad with Quinoa & Garlic Yogurt works beautifully as part of a balanced meal. Consider serving it alongside:
- Creamy Chicken Pesto Spaghetti Pasta: A flavorful pasta dish with a creamy pesto sauce.
- Light and Creamy Broccoli Soup: A silky soup that complements the crisp, roasted cauliflower in the salad.
Conclusion:
The Roasted Cauliflower Salad with Quinoa & Garlic Yogurt recipe is a perfect blend of healthy ingredients, vibrant flavors, and satisfying textures. The quinoa offers a hearty base, while the roasted cauliflower adds depth and flavor. Topping it all off with a creamy garlic yogurt dressing and a sprinkling of pomegranate seeds makes it both visually stunning and delicious. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer, side dish, or light meal, this salad will surely become a favorite in your recipe repertoire.
