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Cauliflower Salad Bowl

Spanish Style Cauliflower Salad

La ensaladilla de coliflor es una alternativa "low carb" a la clásica ensaladilla rusa, una receta de verano muy fácil y saludable.

 

Spanish-Style Cauliflower Salad: A Low-Carb, Healthy Tapas Alternative
Craving the classic Spanish potato salad but want a lighter, low-carb option? This Spanish-Style Cauliflower Salad is a delicious, nutrient-packed twist on the beloved tapa, offering the same creamy, tangy flavor with fewer carbs. Made with cauliflower, homemade mayonnaise, and fresh veggies, this gluten-free, keto-friendly dish is perfect as a tapa, side, or main course. As a dietitian passionate about nutritional education, I’m excited to share this recipe, its health benefits, and portion control tips to support your wellness goals. Let’s dive into this irresistible salad!
Why Choose Spanish-Style Cauliflower Salad?
Potato salad is a Spanish staple, for example, often used to judge a bar’s quality. However, its starchy base can derail low-carb diets. This cauliflower salad is a healthier alternative because it’s:
  • Low-Carb and Keto-Friendly: Cauliflower has 4.1g carbs per 100g vs. potatoes’ 14.8g, thus ideal for ketosis or weight management.
  • Gluten-Free: No flour or grains, therefore perfect for gluten sensitivities.
  • Nutrient-Dense: Packed with fiber, vitamins, and healthy fats, for instance, from cauliflower and mayonnaise.
  • Quick and Easy: Ready in under 20 minutes, so great for busy schedules.
  • Versatile: Works as a tapa, side, or main dish, making it perfect for any occasion.
Moreover, it mimics the creamy texture of potato salad, for example, satisfying cravings without compromising health goals.
Nutritional Benefits of Key Ingredients
This salad is a nutritional powerhouse. Here’s why its ingredients stand out:
  1. Cauliflower:
    • Low-Calorie: Only 23 kcal per 100g, which supports weight loss.
    • Low-Carb: 4.1g carbs per 100g, for example, ideal for low-carb or keto diets.
    • Fiber: 2.3g per 100g, thus promoting digestion and gut health.
    • Vitamins: High in C, K, and folate, thereby boosting immunity and cell health.
  2. Mayonnaise (Homemade with EVOO):
    • Healthy Fats: Monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats (e.g., Omega-3, Omega-6), for instance, support heart health.
    • Vitamins: Provides E and K, additionally aiding skin and blood health.
    • Energy Balance: Contributes 30–35% of daily energy needs, thus essential in moderation.
  3. Eggs (in Mayonnaise):
    • Protein: High-quality protein, which enhances satiety.
    • Nutrients: Rich in B12 and choline, for example, supporting brain health.
  4. Veggies (e.g., Carrots, Peas):
    • Fiber and Vitamins: Add crunch and nutrients, for instance, like vitamin A from carrots.
    • Low-Calorie: Keep the dish light, thus aligning with weight goals.
In contrast, potatoes (74 kcal, 14.8g carbs per 100g) are higher in calories and carbs, making cauliflower a better choice for low-carb lifestyles.

Spanish-style cauliflower salad is a low-carb, keto-friendly tapa, mimicking potato salad, ready in under 20 minutes.

Low Carb Cauliflower Salad
Recipe: Spanish-Style Cauliflower Salad
This easy recipe yields a creamy, flavorful salad that serves 4–6 as a tapa or side. Let’s get started!
Ingredients (Serves 4–6)
  • 1 medium cauliflower head (about 500g), cut into small florets
  • 1 small carrot, diced
  • ½ cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
  • ¼ cup homemade mayonnaise (made with EVOO, egg, and lemon juice)
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (or white vinegar)
  • ½ teaspoon sea salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • Optional: 1 hard-boiled egg, chopped, or 2 tablespoons diced pickles for tang
Instructions
  1. Cook the Veggies:
    • First, steam or boil cauliflower florets, carrot, and peas for 5–7 minutes until tender but not mushy. Drain and cool completely.
  2. Make the Dressing:
    • Next, in a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, vinegar, salt, and pepper until smooth. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  3. Assemble the Salad:
    • Then, in a large bowl, combine cooled cauliflower, carrot, peas, and egg or pickles (if using). Add dressing and toss gently to coat.
  4. Chill:
    • Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to meld flavors. Alternatively, serve immediately if time is short.
  5. Serve:
    • Serve as a tapa with Crunchy Paleo Crackers (#), as a side with grilled fish, or as a main with a protein like chicken.
  6. Store:
    • Finally, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3–4 days. Do not freeze, as mayonnaise may separate.

 

Gluten-free and nutrient-dense, it’s packed with fiber, vitamins, and healthy fats, perfect for weight management.

 

Serving Suggestions
  • Tapa: Serve in small bowls with toothpicks for a Spanish-style appetizer.
  • Side Dish: Pair with Leek and Bacon Crustless Quiche (#) for a low-carb meal.
  • Main Course: Add tuna or boiled eggs for a hearty lunch or dinner.
  • Picnic: Pack in a cooler for a refreshing outdoor dish, for example, at barbecues.
Customization Options
  • Veggie Swaps: Use broccoli, green beans, or bell peppers, for instance, for variety.
  • Protein Boost: Add shrimp, chicken, or chickpeas, thus making it a main dish.
  • Dressing Variations: Use Greek yogurt or avocado-based dressing, though this alters fat content.
  • Spice It Up: Add paprika or mustard, for example, for extra zing.
Understanding Carbohydrates and Starch
Potatoes are rich in starch, a complex carbohydrate (14.8g per 100g), for example, providing energy for active individuals. However, excess starch converts to glucose, stored as glycogen or fat if not burned, especially in sedentary lifestyles. Cauliflower, with 4.1g carbs per 100g, is a low-carb alternative, thus preventing unwanted weight gain. For instance, its fiber (2.3g per 100g) slows glucose absorption, stabilizing blood sugar, making it ideal for low-carb or keto diets. Occasional potato salad won’t derail your diet, but cauliflower salad is a smarter daily choice.
Why Healthy Fats Matter
Fats, like those in mayonnaise, are essential, contributing 30–35% of daily energy. For example, EVOO-based mayonnaise provides monounsaturated fats, Omega-3, and Omega-6, which support heart health and reduce inflammation. In contrast, avoiding fats can disrupt hormonal balance, so moderate consumption is key. Use homemade mayonnaise with EVOO for maximum benefits, thus avoiding seed oils in some store-bought versions.

Store for 3–4 days in the fridge, ideal for meal prep or serving as a side, tapa, or main dish.

 

Homemade Cauliflower Salad

 

Portion Control Tips
This salad’s creamy texture makes it tempting to overeat, for example, at home versus a bar’s small tapa. Here’s how to control portions:
  • Use Small Plates: Limits serving size, thus preventing overindulgence.
  • Serve in the Kitchen: Avoid bringing the bowl to the table, otherwise you may keep eating.
  • Pre-Portion: Divide into containers for meals, for instance, aiding meal prep.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
  • Low-Carb and Satisfying: Mimics potato salad with fewer carbs, therefore perfect for keto.
  • Healthy and Flavorful: Creamy and tangy, for instance, without guilt.
  • Quick Prep: Ready in under 20 minutes, so ideal for busy days.
  • Versatile: Works as a tapa, side, or main, thus fitting any meal.
  • Meal Prep-Friendly: Stores for 3–4 days, for example, simplifying weekly planning.
Tips for Perfect Cauliflower Salad
  • Don’t Overcook Cauliflower: Steam until tender but firm, otherwise it becomes mushy.
  • Cool Veggies: Ensure veggies are cold before mixing, for example, to prevent watery salad.
  • Homemade Mayonnaise: Use EVOO for richer flavor, thus enhancing nutrition.
  • Taste and Adjust: Balance vinegar and salt, so flavors pop.

 

 

This Spanish-Style Cauliflower Salad is a low-carb, nutrient-packed alternative to traditional potato salad, perfect for tapas, sides, or mains. For instance, with cauliflower, homemade mayonnaise, and fresh veggies, it’s keto-friendly, gluten-free, and ready in under 20 minutes. Moreover, its creamy texture and tangy flavor satisfy cravings without derailing your diet.
As a result, whip up this salad today and enjoy a healthy, Spanish-inspired dish that’s as delicious as it is good for you!

 

ensaladilla de coliflor

ENSALADILLA DE COLIFLOR

La ensaladilla de coliflor es una alternativa "low carb" a la clásica ensaladilla rusa, una receta de verano muy fácil y saludable.
5 from 2 votes
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 3 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Aperitivo, Ensalada, Entrante
Cuisine española
Servings 4 raciones
Calories 228 kcal

Equipment

  • robot de cocina

Ingredients
  

  • 400 gramos coliflor procesada y cocida al microondas
  • 60 gramos pimientos rojos asados (1 lata)
  • 75 gramos zanahoria (1 zanahoria mediana)
  • 50 gramos de aceitunas verdes sin hueso (1 bolsa)
  • 125 gramos bonito del norte en aceite de oliva (corresponde a 2 latas)
  • 2 huevos cocidos
  • 50 gramos pepinillos en vinagre
  • 1/2 taza mahonesa (120 ml)

Instructions
 

  • Lo primero que hago siempre es cocer los huevos y dejar que se enfríen.
  • Después preparo todos los ingredientes sobre el banco de la cocina, me gusta tenerlo todo controlado. 😉
  • A continuación, separa las flores de coliflor, retira la parte más gruesa del tronco, procesa la coliflor en tu robot de cocina, ponla en un recipiente apto para microondas y cocínala durante 2 minutos a máxima potencia, (800-1000W).
  • Saca la coliflor, remueve, comprueba si está hecha, si crees que le falta un poco, 1 minuto más de micro.
  • Saca la coliflor, sazónala y deja que enfríe.
  • Mientras, corta todos los ingredientes en trocitos pequeños.
  • Cuando los huevos están fríos pélalos y córtalos también.
  • Con la coliflor ya fría, mezcla todo en un bol amplio.
  • Por último, añade la mahonesa. Guarda la ensaladilla en el frigorífico para que se enfríe antes de servirla. Si reposa estará mejor.

Nutrition Facts
ENSALADILLA DE COLIFLOR
Amount Per Serving
Calories 228 Calories from Fat 126
% Daily Value*
Fat 14g22%
Saturated Fat 3g19%
Cholesterol 122mg41%
Sodium 709mg31%
Potassium 508mg15%
Carbohydrates 11g4%
Fiber 3g13%
Sugar 5g6%
Protein 15g30%
Vitamin A 3880IU78%
Vitamin C 68mg82%
Calcium 61mg6%
Iron 2mg11%
* Los porcentajes de Valores Diarios están basados en una dieta de 2000 calorías.
Keyword coliflor, ensaladilla, low carb
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APPETIZER, EASY, LOW CARB, SALAD

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5 from 2 votes (1 rating without comment)

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