Healthy Dish

Sicilian Cauliflower Salad

Ingredients

cauliflower: 350 g
bay leaf: 2 piece
salt: 0.5 tsp
raisins: 75 g (light)
red wine: 75 ml (Marsala)
black olives: 150 g (pitted)
parsley: 4 sprigs
olive oil: 30 ml
lemon juice: 1 Tbsp
green onion: 2 piece
cedar nuts: 25 g

Metric Conversion

Stages of cooking

Prepare ingredients.
Rinse the cabbage thoroughly, divide into small florets and dry. Wash and dry the greens (parsley and onion stalks). Squeeze the juice out of half a lemon. Rinse the raisins with hot water and dry.
Put cauliflower in a pan, pour cold water so that it completely covers the cabbage, salt and add bay leaves. Cover and bring the water to a boil. Boil the cabbage for 1-2 minutes after boiling. Throw cabbage on a sieve, discard bay leaves.
While the cauliflower is boiled, put the raisins in a small dipper and pour Marsala. Instead of Marsala, you can use any fortified wine or replace it with water. Bring to a boil and immediately remove from heat.
Prepare a salad dressing: finely chop the white part of the green onion stalks (can be replaced with shallots or onions). In a small bowl combine lemon juice, chopped onion and gradually pour in olive oil, beating the mixture with a fork until smooth.
In a bowl with still warm cauliflower add Marsala with raisins and pour the dressing. Mix.
Add olives and mix again. Leave a bowl of salad for at least 30 minutes so that it is completely cooled to room temperature.
Meanwhile, in a dry skillet, brown the cedar nuts and chop the parsley. In a bowl with cauliflower add cedar nuts and parsley. Mix everything.

History of the Sicilian Cauliflower Salad:

Cauliflower is a staple vegetable in Italian cuisine, and the Sicilian Cauliflower Salad is one of the most popular ways to showcase this versatile ingredient. Originating in Sicily, this salad is a refreshing combination of cooked cauliflower, sweet raisins, and tangy olives in a lemon and olive oil dressing. It is typically served as a side dish or as a light lunch, and is loved for its simplicity, healthy ingredients and fresh flavors.

Tips and Tricks for Sicilian Cauliflower Salad Recipe:

When boiling the cauliflower, make sure to boil it for only 1-2 minutes after boiling, or until it is al dente, so it doesn't get mushy.
Soak the raisins in Marsala or fortified wine for added sweetness and depth of flavor.
For added crunch and nuttiness, toast the pine nuts before adding them to the salad.
Use good quality olives that are pitted for convenience and add saltiness to the salad.
It's best to let the salad sit for at least 30 minutes after assembling so the flavors meld together and intensify.

Tips for presenting the dish:

Place the salad in a large bowl or platter to show off its vibrant colors.
Garnish the salad with fresh parsley leaves or chopped green onions for added freshness.
Serve the salad slightly warm or chilled, depending on your preference.
Pair the salad with grilled meat or fish for a complete meal, or serve it as a healthy side dish.

How did you like this article?