A Taste of Spring: Cauliflower ‘Potato’ Salad

Although it’s still a little early in the year to steadily and consistently grill outdoors for backyard BBQs or cookouts- that hasn’t stopped myself or my friends from preparing dishes to get us feeling more seasonal with every nice, sunny and warm day we have here in New England!

One of my favorite Springtime/picnic snacks to both cook and eat is a flavorful potato salad- but I also know that on my quest for healthier diet and beach-ready body- I should substitute starchy potatoes for a different and lighter vegetable that doesn’t skimp on flavor or texture. And so, voila! Cauliflower makes an appearance in this long-time favorite recipe that is perfect for both the Spring and Summertime- either paired with hot dogs and hamburgers or all by itself!

WHAT YOU’LL NEED:

6 SERVINGS:

1 head cauliflower, cut into bite-size pieces
¾ cup whole Greek yogurt
¼ cup sour cream
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
4 stalks celery, diced
1 bunch green onions, thinly sliced
⅓ cup minced cornichons
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

WHAT YOU’LL DO:

1. Place the cauliflower in a large pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat and boil the cauliflower until it’s just fork tender, 8 to 10 minutes (don’t overcook it, or it won’t hold up too well in the salad).

2. Drain the cauliflower and cool it to room temperature. Meanwhile, in a medium bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, sour cream, mustard, vinegar, parsley and dill.

3. Add the cauliflower, celery, green onions and cornichons to the bowl and toss well to combine. Season with salt and pepper.

4. Chill the salad for at least 1 hour before serving. The salad can be made 1 day ahead and held in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

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This ‘potato’ salad was just as good, if not better- with cauliflower substituted, instead. It was light, creamy and full of both savory and tart flavors that have me ready to pack up a picnic basket and head to the nearest trail as soon as the rain stops!