Baked Cauliflower Salad with Feta & Dates is a delightful combination of warm, caramelized cauliflower, creamy feta, and sweet, chewy dates, all tossed together with fresh herbs and a tangy dressing. This dish offers the perfect balance of savory, sweet, and slightly nutty flavors, making it a standout salad that can be enjoyed as a side or a light meal.
I first made this when I was looking for a way to elevate roasted cauliflower, and it quickly became a favorite. The natural sweetness of the dates contrasts beautifully with the salty feta, while the roasted cauliflower adds a satisfying crunch. What I love most about this recipe is how effortlessly it brings together simple ingredients to create a dish that feels both elegant and comforting.
What’s great about this Baked Cauliflower Salad is its versatility. Serve it warm or at room temperature, add toasted nuts for extra crunch, or toss in some leafy greens for a heartier dish. Whether as a side for grilled meats or a vegetarian main, this salad is a delicious and unique way to enjoy cauliflower!
Perfect for:
- Healthy weeknight dinners
- Potluck gatherings
- Vegetarian meal options
- Meal prep lunches
- Mediterranean food lovers
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Here are 10 reasons why this Baked Cauliflower Salad with Feta & Dates will be a staple in your kitchen:
- Incredible Flavor Balance: The sweet dates, savory feta, and roasted cauliflower create a perfectly harmonious bite.
- Rich in Nutrients: Packed with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants from wholesome ingredients.
- Perfectly Roasted Cauliflower: The oven brings out its natural nuttiness and crisp texture.
- Creamy and Tangy Feta: Adds a delightful contrast to the roasted vegetables.
- Natural Sweetness: Medjool dates provide a caramel-like sweetness without refined sugar.
- Versatile Dish: Great as a main course, side dish, or meal prep option.
- Quick and Easy: Minimal prep work and simple ingredients make it hassle-free.
- Customizable Add-Ins: Easily adjust with nuts, greens, or protein for variety.
- Beautiful Presentation: The vibrant mix of colors makes this dish visually appealing.
- Meal-Prep Friendly: Stays fresh in the fridge for easy weekday lunches.
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 calories
- Key Nutrients: Protein: 8g, Carbs: 28g, Fat: 14g
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into florets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- ½ cup chopped Medjool dates
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
- ¼ cup toasted almonds or walnuts (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Ingredient Highlights
- Cauliflower: Roasting enhances its natural sweetness and gives a delicious nutty flavor.
- Medjool Dates: Their soft, chewy texture and natural sweetness elevate the salad.
- Feta Cheese: Provides a creamy, tangy contrast to balance the flavors.
- Smoked Paprika & Cumin: Adds warmth and depth to the roasted cauliflower.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Cauliflower:
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Season Cauliflower: In a large bowl, toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and cumin.
- Roast: Spread the florets in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and tender.
Make the Dressing:
- Whisk Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Assemble the Salad:
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the roasted cauliflower, chopped dates, crumbled feta, and fresh parsley. Add nuts if using.
- Drizzle Dressing: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat.
Serve:
- Plate and Enjoy: Serve warm or at room temperature, garnished with extra feta and nuts if desired.
How to Serve
Here are 10 ways to enjoy Baked Cauliflower Salad with Feta & Dates:
- As a Side Dish: Pairs well with grilled chicken, lamb, or fish.
- Over Greens: Serve over arugula or spinach for a heartier salad.
- With Quinoa or Couscous: Add grains to make it a filling meal.
- As a Wrap Filling: Use in a whole-wheat wrap for a nutritious lunch.
- Topped with Yogurt: A dollop of Greek yogurt enhances the creaminess.
- On Toast: Serve over toasted sourdough for a Mediterranean-inspired snack.
- With Pita Bread: Scoop it up with warm pita for a flavorful bite.
- At a Potluck: A unique and impressive dish for gatherings.
- Meal Prep Bowls: Store in containers for easy grab-and-go lunches.
- As a Warm Winter Salad: Serve fresh out of the oven for a cozy, nourishing meal.
Additional Tips
- Roast for Extra Flavor – Roast the cauliflower until golden brown for a deeper, nutty flavor. A slight char adds a delicious smoky touch.
- Use Fresh Herbs – Fresh parsley, mint, or cilantro can enhance the salad’s brightness. Chop them finely and mix them in just before serving.
- Add Crunch – Toasted almonds, walnuts, or pumpkin seeds add a satisfying crunch and complement the sweetness of the dates.
- Balance the Dressing – A squeeze of lemon or a splash of apple cider vinegar balances the sweetness of the dates and the saltiness of the feta.
- Let It Marinate – Allow the salad to sit for 15–20 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together beautifully.
- Try Different Cheeses – Swap feta for goat cheese or ricotta salata if you prefer a creamier or milder taste.
- Incorporate a Grain – Add cooked quinoa, farro, or bulgur for extra texture and a more filling meal.
- Roast Dates for a Twist – Lightly roasting the dates caramelizes their sugars, making them even more flavorful.
- Use a Variety of Cauliflower – Mix in purple or Romanesco cauliflower for a more colorful and visually appealing dish.
- Make It a Meal – Top with grilled chicken, chickpeas, or a poached egg for added protein and a heartier dish.
Recipe Variations
- Mediterranean Twist – Add Kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a tangy and savory flavor.
- Spicy Harissa Kick – Toss the cauliflower with harissa paste before roasting and garnish with toasted almonds for a smoky, spicy depth.
- Middle Eastern Style – Sprinkle with za’atar seasoning and top with pomegranate seeds for a fresh, aromatic touch.
- Crunchy Walnut & Honey – Add chopped walnuts and a drizzle of honey to enhance the sweet and nutty notes.
- Lemon-Tahini Dressing – Swap the dressing for a creamy lemon-tahini sauce for a nutty, citrusy contrast.
- Curry-Spiced Version – Roast the cauliflower with curry powder, turmeric, and cumin, then toss with golden raisins for a warm, earthy flavor.
- Vegan-Friendly Option – Replace feta with crumbled cashew cheese or marinated tofu for a dairy-free alternative.
- Roasted Chickpea Protein Boost – Add crispy roasted chickpeas for extra texture and plant-based protein.
- Fresh Herb Infusion – Mix in fresh mint, parsley, and cilantro for a vibrant, herby finish.
- Warm Quinoa Blend – Toss the roasted cauliflower with cooked quinoa for a heartier, protein-packed salad.
Special Equipment
- Baking Sheet: For roasting the cauliflower evenly.
- Mixing Bowls: To toss ingredients and prepare the dressing.
- Whisk: For blending the dressing smoothly.
- Sharp Knife: For chopping dates, parsley, and nuts.
- Parchment Paper: To prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
FAQ Section
- Can I use frozen cauliflower?
Yes, but thaw and pat dry before roasting to avoid excess moisture. - How long does this salad stay fresh?
Store in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container. - Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! Roast the cauliflower in advance and assemble just before serving. - What can I use instead of dates?
Try dried cranberries, raisins, or chopped figs for a similar sweetness. - Can I serve this cold?
Yes! It’s delicious both warm and chilled. - How do I make it nut-free?
Simply omit the nuts or replace them with sunflower seeds. - Can I add protein to this salad?
Grilled chicken, chickpeas, or tofu would make great additions. - What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. - Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes! All ingredients are naturally gluten-free. - Can I use a different cheese?
Yes, goat cheese or Parmesan would also work well.
Conclusion
Baked Cauliflower Salad with Feta & Dates is a perfect blend of sweet, savory, and nutty flavors, making every bite irresistibly delicious! Roasted cauliflower brings a deep, caramelized flavor, while creamy feta and naturally sweet dates create a beautiful balance of textures and tastes. Tossed with fresh herbs, crunchy nuts, and a zesty dressing, this salad is both hearty and refreshing.
Customize it by adding toasted almonds for extra crunch, a drizzle of honey for more sweetness, or a hint of chili flakes for a spicy kick. Serve it warm or at room temperature as a side dish or a satisfying vegetarian main.
I can’t wait to see how your Baked Cauliflower Salad turns out! Be sure to share your photos on Instagram and tag me—I’d love to see your delicious creations! And don’t forget to leave a comment letting me know how you made this recipe your own!