Looking for a dish that’s not only bursting with flavor but also a feast for the eyes? Dive into our Crispy Cauliflower Pasta Salad! This vegan delight combines the irresistible crunch of roasted cauliflower with the comforting chew of pasta, all tossed together with fresh cherry tomatoes and fragrant basil. Perfect for a light lunch or a vibrant side dish at your next gathering, this recipe is sure to impress your taste buds and your guests alike. Ready to elevate your salad game? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Vegan
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 head cauliflower, cut into florets
- 8 oz pasta of choice
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature will help achieve that crispy texture for the cauliflower.
- While the oven is heating, prepare the cauliflower. Cut the head of cauliflower into small, bite-sized florets. Ensure they are roughly the same size for even cooking.
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Make sure the florets are evenly coated with the oil and seasonings.
- Spread the seasoned cauliflower florets in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until the cauliflower is golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
- While the cauliflower is roasting, cook the pasta according to the package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the roasted cauliflower once it's done. Add the halved cherry tomatoes and chopped fresh basil.
- Drizzle the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over the pasta salad and toss everything together gently to combine. Adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper to taste.
- Let the pasta salad sit for about 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. You can serve it warm or chilled, depending on your preference.
- Transfer the crispy cauliflower pasta salad to a serving bowl and garnish with extra basil if desired. Enjoy your delicious vegan dish!
Tips
- Choose the Right Pasta: Opt for whole grain or gluten-free pasta to add a nutritious twist to your salad. The choice of pasta can enhance the dish's texture and flavor profile.
- Don’t Rush the Roasting: For that perfect crispy cauliflower, make sure to roast it at a high temperature and flip it halfway through. This ensures even browning and a delightful crunch.
- Season Generously: Don’t be shy with the salt and pepper! Seasoning your cauliflower before roasting and your pasta after cooking will elevate the overall taste of your salad.
- Experiment with Add-Ins: Feel free to customize this recipe by adding other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, or even some nuts for extra crunch.
- Serve It Chilled or Warm: This salad is versatile! Let it sit for a bit to meld the flavors, and serve it warm for a comforting dish or chilled for a refreshing summer salad.
- Garnish for Presentation: A sprinkle of extra fresh basil or a drizzle of balsamic glaze can take your salad from simple to stunning, making it a showstopper at any meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
