Cauliflower Potato Salad Recipe
Introduction
This Cauliflower Potato Salad is a fresh, light twist on the classic potato salad we all love. Using tender-crisp cauliflower instead of potatoes keeps the salad low-carb and full of crunch while still delivering all the creamy, tangy flavors you expect.

Ingredients
- 1 large head cauliflower
- 2 hard boiled eggs
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- 1 tablespoon dill relish
- 2 teaspoons finely diced onion
- 1 teaspoon fresh dill
- 1 teaspoon chopped chives
- 1 teaspoon vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (more to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
Instructions
- Step 1: Cut the cauliflower into bite-sized pieces, similar to how you would prepare potatoes for potato salad. Rinse and drain thoroughly.
- Step 2: Add just enough water to cover the bottom of a 12-inch skillet and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Add the cauliflower to the skillet and cover to steam. Alternatively, you can steam the cauliflower using a steamer basket on the stove.
- Step 3: Steam the cauliflower for 3-5 minutes, checking for doneness by piercing with a fork. When the fork slides in easily, transfer the cauliflower to a large bowl. Avoid overcooking to prevent mushiness; the cauliflower should be tender-crisp.
- Step 4: Chop the hard boiled eggs into small pieces and add them to the bowl with the cauliflower.
- Step 5: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, mustard, dill relish, finely diced onion, fresh dill, chopped chives, vinegar, salt, and black pepper to make the dressing.
- Step 6: Gently fold the dressing into the cauliflower and eggs, stirring carefully to coat each piece evenly. Sprinkle the top with paprika for a pop of color and mild flavor.
- Step 7: Refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour or until thoroughly chilled before serving.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, add diced celery or pickles to the salad.
- Use Greek yogurt in place of mayonnaise for a lighter option.
- Fresh herbs like parsley or tarragon can be added to complement the dill and chives.
- Adjust vinegar and mustard quantities to suit your preferred tanginess.
Storage
Store the cauliflower potato salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir gently before serving. This salad is best enjoyed cold and does not require reheating.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use raw cauliflower instead of steaming it?
Raw cauliflower is much firmer and less tender than steamed. Steaming softens the cauliflower just enough to mimic the texture of cooked potatoes while keeping a slight crunch, which is ideal for this salad.
Can I prepare this salad in advance?
Yes, preparing the salad a few hours ahead or the night before allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just keep it refrigerated and give it a gentle stir before serving.
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Cauliflower Potato Salad Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Cauliflower Potato Salad is a refreshing and healthy alternative to traditional potato salad, featuring tender-crisp steamed cauliflower and hard boiled eggs tossed in a creamy, tangy dressing with mustard, dill relish, and fresh herbs. Perfect for a light side dish or picnic addition, it combines classic flavors with a low-carb twist.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 large head cauliflower
- 2 hard boiled eggs
Dressing
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- 1 tablespoon dill relish
- 2 teaspoons finely diced onion
- 1 teaspoon fresh dill
- 1 teaspoon chopped chives
- 1 teaspoon vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (more to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
Instructions
- Prepare the Cauliflower: Cut the cauliflower into bite-sized pieces, similar to how you would cut potatoes for potato salad. Rinse thoroughly and drain to remove any dirt or debris.
- Steam the Cauliflower: Add just enough water to cover the bottom of a 12-inch skillet and bring it to a boil over medium-high heat. Place the cauliflower in the skillet and cover it to allow steaming. Alternatively, use a steamer basket on the stovetop.
- Check for Doneness: Steam the cauliflower for 3 to 5 minutes, testing tenderness with a fork. When the fork slides in easily, remove the cauliflower and transfer it to a large bowl. Be careful not to overcook to avoid mushiness, aiming for a tender-crisp texture.
- Chop the Eggs: Chop the hard boiled eggs into small pieces and add them to the bowl with the cauliflower.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, mustard, dill relish, finely diced onion, fresh dill, chopped chives, vinegar, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Combine Salad and Dressing: Gently fold the dressing into the cauliflower and egg mixture, stirring carefully to coat all pieces evenly without breaking them apart. Sprinkle the top with paprika for extra color and flavor.
- Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld and ensure the salad is served cold and refreshing.
Notes
- Make sure not to oversteam the cauliflower to keep a pleasant, slightly crisp texture.
- For best results, chill the salad well before serving to enhance the flavors.
- You can substitute dill relish with sweet pickle relish if you prefer a slightly sweeter flavor.
- This salad can be prepared a day ahead to save time and improve flavor blending.
- Adjust salt and pepper to taste after mixing the salad to suit your preference.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Cauliflower salad, potato salad alternative, healthy side dish, low carb salad, egg salad, creamy dressing

