Artichoke Cauliflower Shrimp Ensalata Recipe

A vibrant and refreshing Artichoke Cauliflower Shrimp Ensalata! This recipe combines tender cauliflower, marinated artichoke hearts, juicy shrimp, and Kalamata olives in a zesty lemon vinaigrette. Perfect as a light main course for two or a delightful side salad for four. The key is to keep the cauliflower perfectly crisp – don't overcook! Get ready for a burst of Mediterranean flavors in under 30 minutes.

Prep Time 15 mins
Cook Time 20 mins
Calories 546.8 kcal
Protein 58g
Rating 5.0 (1 Reviews)
Artichoke Cauliflower Shrimp Ensalata

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Artichoke Cauliflower Shrimp Ensalata

  • 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into florets
  • Water Packed Artichoke Hearts
  • Pitted Black Olives
  • Fresh Shrimp
  • Fresh lettuce leaves for serving
  • Lemon, Rind Of
  • Lemon, Juice Of
  • Fresh Parsley
  • Lite Olive Oil
  • Green Onions
  • White Wine Vinegar
  • Sugar
  • Dried Thyme
  • Salt And Pepper
  • Ground Red Pepper

How to Make Artichoke Cauliflower Shrimp Ensalata

  1. Steam 1 medium head of cauliflower cut into florets for 5 minutes until crisp-tender. Immediately rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool completely.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons lemon juice, 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.
  3. Slowly whisk in 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil until emulsified. (Alternatively, for a smoother dressing, blend the vinaigrette ingredients in a blender until smooth.)
  4. In a large bowl, gently toss the cooled cauliflower florets with 1 (14-ounce) can artichoke hearts (drained and quartered), 1/2 cup Kalamata olives (pitted and halved), and 1 cup cooked shrimp (peeled and deveined). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Arrange the cauliflower mixture on individual plates atop fresh lettuce leaves.
  6. Chill the salad for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  7. Before serving, drizzle the lemon vinaigrette over the salad or serve it on the side. Garnish each plate with a lemon wedge or a sprinkle of fresh oregano.

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Elevate your dish with simple flavor boosters! A final flourish of freshly chopped herbs can add incredible brightness, while a squeeze of lemon or lime juice right before serving can awaken all the flavors. Don't underestimate a sprinkle of quality finishing salt or a drizzle of good olive oil to make your creation shine.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

16 g

Sugar

38g

Fat

28g

Carbs

7g