Bang Bang Cauliflower Kale Salad.

If you’re searching for a vibrant, nutritious dish that hits all the right notes, look no further than this Bang Bang Cauliflower Kale Salad. It’s a perfect combination of crispy, spicy, and creamy with the added benefit of nutrient-packed greens. This salad is not just a meal; it’s an experience. The roasted cauliflower brings a satisfying crunch, while the kale adds a hearty texture, making it a filling dish that’s great for lunch or dinner. Plus, the bang bang sauce—a delightful blend of mayonnaise and sweet chili—takes this salad to the next level. Let’s dive into this flavorful recipe that will leave your taste buds dancing!

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

– Flavor Explosion: The combination of sweet chili sauce and spicy chili garlic sauce creates a harmonious balance of flavors.
– Textural Delight: The crispy cauliflower and tender kale provide a wonderful contrast that makes each bite interesting.
– Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this salad can be whipped up in no time.
– Customizable: You can easily adjust the spice level or add your favorite toppings to make it your own.

What to Buy

• 1 head of cauliflower, cut into florets
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 cup seasoned fine breadcrumbs
• Olive oil or another oil spray
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 4 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
• 3 teaspoons chili garlic sauce
• 3 tablespoons fresh chopped chives
• 1 large bunch of kale, leaves removed from stems and chopped
• 1 to 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 lime, freshly juiced
• Kosher salt and pepper to taste
• ½ cup shaved parmesan
• ½ cup pickled onions or sliced red onion

Equipment Breakdown

• Oven: For roasting the cauliflower to crispy perfection.
• Baking Sheet: To spread out the cauliflower florets evenly.
• Bowl: For mixing the batter and salad ingredients.
• Whisk: To combine the mayonnaise and sauces smoothly.
• Knife and Cutting Board: For chopping vegetables and preparing ingredients.

Bang Bang Cauliflower Kale Salad.: Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature will help the cauliflower roast beautifully, giving it that desired crispiness.

Step 2: Prepare the Cauliflower

In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Make sure each piece is well-coated for the best flavor.

Step 3: Bread the Cauliflower

Set up a breading station: one bowl with the beaten eggs, another with a mixture of panko and seasoned breadcrumbs. Dip each floret into the egg, letting the excess drip off, then coat it in the breadcrumb mixture. Place the breaded florets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 4: Roast the Cauliflower

Spread the breaded cauliflower on the baking sheet in a single layer. Spray lightly with olive oil for extra crispiness. Roast in the oven for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy, turning halfway through.

Step 5: Make the Bang Bang Sauce

In a medium bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and chili garlic sauce. Whisk until smooth and well combined. Adjust the spice level by adding more chili garlic sauce if desired.

Step 6: Prepare the Kale

While the cauliflower is roasting, prepare the kale. In a large bowl, drizzle the chopped kale with olive oil and the juice of one lime. Sprinkle with salt and massage the kale with your hands for a couple of minutes until it softens and wilts slightly.

Step 7: Combine the Ingredients

Once the cauliflower is done roasting, let it cool for a few minutes. Add the roasted cauliflower to the bowl with the kale. Drizzle the bang bang sauce over the top and toss everything together gently.

Step 8: Serve and Garnish

Transfer the salad to a serving bowl or platter. Top with shaved parmesan and pickled onions or sliced red onion for an extra layer of flavor and texture.

Allergy-Friendly Swaps

• For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
• To make it vegan, substitute eggs with a flax egg and use vegan mayonnaise.
• For a dairy-free version, omit the parmesan or use a plant-based alternative.
• If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of chili garlic sauce or omit it altogether.

Don’t Do This

• Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet; this can lead to steaming rather than roasting, resulting in soggy cauliflower.
• Avoid skipping the step of massaging the kale, as it makes a significant difference in texture and flavor.
• Don’t forget to let the cauliflower cool slightly before mixing it with the kale to prevent wilting.
• Don’t be shy with the bang bang sauce; it’s the star of the show!

Keep It Fresh: Storage Guide

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The cauliflower will lose some crispiness but will still be delicious. To revive the texture, reheat the cauliflower briefly in the oven before serving again. The salad is best enjoyed fresh, so consider making the components separately and assembling them just before serving.

Bang Bang Cauliflower Kale Salad. Q&A

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the roasted cauliflower and the bang bang sauce in advance. Just store them separately in the fridge and combine with the kale right before serving.

How spicy is this salad?

The spice level can be adjusted based on your preference. The combination of sweet chili sauce and chili garlic sauce provides a nice kick, but you can reduce the amount of chili garlic sauce if you prefer a milder flavor.

Can I use other vegetables in this salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other roasted vegetables like sweet potatoes or bell peppers, or even fresh elements like cherry tomatoes for added color and flavor.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes, this salad is great for meal prep! Just keep the components separate until you’re ready to eat to maintain freshness and texture.

Similar Recipes

• Spicy Roasted Chickpea Salad
• Sweet Potato Kale Salad
• Crunchy Vegetable Salad
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts Salad

Time to Try It

Now that you’re equipped with the recipe for Bang Bang Cauliflower Kale Salad, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get cooking! This salad is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of textures and flavors that will impress anyone at your table. Whether you’re serving it for a casual lunch, a festive dinner, or taking it to a potluck, it’s bound to be a hit. Enjoy the delightful crunch, the spicy kick, and the creamy sauce; your taste buds will thank you!