Roasted garlic, shallot & cauliflower salad

This roasted garlic, shallot and cauliflower salad is one of those dishes that works just as well for summer entertaining as it does for an easy lunch or weeknight meal. I first created this recipe for 5+ A Day, with the goal of showcasing seasonal vegetables in a way that feels generous, flavour-packed and unfussy. Roasting the garlic, shallots and cauliflower brings out a deep, caramelised sweetness that forms the backbone of this vibrant vegan salad.

It’s also a recipe that delivers big flavour with very little effort. With simple prep and minimal ingredients, this is an easy-to-cook salad that feels a little special without being complicated. The contrast of warm roasted vegetables with fresh greens, herbs and a bright dressing makes it ideal for summer lunches, BBQs and relaxed entertaining, whether you’re feeding a crowd or just yourself.

Celebrating seasonal produce is at the heart of this dish, and it’s a great example of how versatile cauliflower can be when it's layered with flavour. Fresh, colourful and full of texture, this salad works beautifully as a main, a side, or part of a shared table. It’s a plant-based recipe that’s perfect for summer, easy to adapt, and always delivers on flavour!