Cauliflower Vegan Egg Salad Recipe Easy and Delicious Ideas

Updated On: October 7, 2025

Looking for a fresh, healthy, and vegan-friendly twist on a classic comfort food? This Cauliflower Vegan Egg Salad Recipe is the perfect answer.

It beautifully mimics the creamy, tangy flavors of traditional egg salad but uses cauliflower as the star ingredient, making it a nutritious and cruelty-free alternative. Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or simply trying to cut back on eggs, this recipe offers a satisfying texture and flavor profile that will delight your taste buds.

Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make — ideal for quick lunches, picnic spreads, or as a flavorful sandwich filling.

With wholesome ingredients like vegan mayo, mustard, and kala namak (black salt) to give that signature eggy flavor, this salad is packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins. It’s a fantastic way to sneak extra veggies into your diet without compromising on taste.

Let’s dive into why you’ll love this recipe and how to make it at home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cauliflower Vegan Egg Salad is much more than just a plant-based alternative — it’s a delicious, nutritious, and versatile dish that everyone can enjoy. Here’s why it’s a winner:

  • Eggy flavor without eggs: Thanks to kala namak, this salad has the unmistakable sulfurous taste reminiscent of boiled eggs.
  • Low in calories but high in fiber: Cauliflower is a nutrient-dense vegetable that keeps you full longer.
  • Allergy-friendly: Free from eggs, dairy, and gluten, making it suitable for various dietary needs.
  • Quick and easy: Ready in under 20 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.
  • Customizable: Add your favorite herbs or veggies for extra crunch and flavor.

Ingredients

  • 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into small florets
  • 1/4 cup vegan mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon kala namak (black salt) – for eggy flavor
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder – for color and subtle earthiness
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped celery – for crunch
  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped red onion
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives or green onions
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: 1/4 cup cooked and diced baby potatoes or tofu for added texture

Equipment

  • Steamer basket or pot for steaming cauliflower
  • Mixing bowl
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Fork or potato masher
  • Measuring spoons and cups
  • Spatula or spoon for mixing
  • Optional: Food processor for finer texture

Instructions

  1. Steam the cauliflower: Place the cauliflower florets in a steamer basket over boiling water. Cover and steam for about 6-8 minutes until they are tender but not mushy. You want them soft enough to mash but still hold some texture.
  2. Cool the cauliflower: Remove the steamed cauliflower from heat and let it cool slightly. This prevents the vegan mayo from melting and keeps the salad creamy.
  3. Mash the cauliflower: Using a fork or potato masher, gently mash the florets until they resemble the texture of chopped hard-boiled eggs. Avoid over-mashing to maintain some bite.
  4. Mix the dressing: In a large mixing bowl, combine vegan mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, turmeric, and kala namak. Stir well until smooth and creamy.
  5. Combine all ingredients: Add the mashed cauliflower, chopped celery, red onion, and chives into the bowl with the dressing. Stir thoroughly to coat everything evenly.
  6. Season to taste: Add salt and pepper as needed. Remember that kala namak is salty, so taste before adding more salt.
  7. Chill and serve: Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Serve on whole-grain bread, in lettuce wraps, or as a side salad.

Tips & Variations

“Kala namak is crucial for that authentic egg salad flavor, but if you can’t find it, a little extra mustard and a pinch of garlic powder can help mimic the taste.”

  • Add extra protein: Mix in cubed tofu or cooked chickpeas for more substance.
  • Make it spicy: Add a dash of smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce for a kick.
  • Herb variations: Fresh dill, parsley, or basil can brighten up the flavor.
  • For a creamier texture: Blend half of the cauliflower in a food processor before mixing.
  • Use vegan yogurt: Substitute vegan mayo with plain unsweetened vegan yogurt for a tangier, lighter version.
  • Try it as a dip: Serve with crackers or raw veggies for a healthy appetizer.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount per serving (about 1/2 cup)
Calories 120
Protein 4g
Fat 8g
Carbohydrates 10g
Fiber 3g
Sodium 350mg
Vitamin C 60% Daily Value
Calcium 4% Daily Value

Serving Suggestions

This cauliflower vegan egg salad is incredibly versatile and pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. Here are some serving ideas to inspire you:

  • Classic sandwich: Spread on whole-grain bread with lettuce and tomato for a hearty lunch.
  • Lettuce wraps: Use large romaine or butter lettuce leaves for a low-carb option.
  • On crackers or toast: Perfect for snacking or as part of a party platter.
  • Salad topper: Add a scoop to your favorite leafy green salad for added creaminess and protein.
  • Stuffed avocados: Fill halved avocados with the salad for a creamy, nutrient-packed meal.

For more creative plant-based recipes, check out our Lemon Ricotta Pasta With Arugula Recipe, or if you’re looking for a delicious vegan appetizer, try the Low Fodmap Appetizer Recipes. If you want to explore a unique dip, the Halibut Dip Recipe offers great inspiration.

Conclusion

This Cauliflower Vegan Egg Salad Recipe is a wonderful example of how plant-based cooking can replicate beloved classics with a nutritious twist. It’s easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and versatile enough to suit many meals.

Whether you’re vegan or simply looking to add more vegetables to your diet, this salad offers a satisfying, eggy taste without any eggs. The use of kala namak and turmeric creates that familiar yellow color and sulfurous aroma, making it a great conversation starter at potlucks or picnics.

Feel free to get creative with add-ins and seasonings to make this dish your own. It’s a fantastic recipe to keep on hand for quick lunches or snacks, and it stores well in the fridge for a few days.

Give this recipe a try and discover a delicious way to enjoy cauliflower in a whole new form!

📖 Recipe Card: Cauliflower Vegan Egg Salad

Description: A creamy and flavorful vegan egg salad made with crumbled cauliflower and classic seasonings. Perfect as a sandwich filling or a light salad topping.

Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT10M
Total Time: PT25M

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 medium head cauliflower, chopped into florets
  • 1/4 cup vegan mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon kala namak (black salt)
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped celery
  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped red onion
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Steam cauliflower florets until tender, about 8-10 minutes.
  2. Let cauliflower cool, then crumble into small pieces resembling chopped eggs.
  3. In a bowl, mix vegan mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, kala namak, turmeric, garlic powder, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
  4. Add crumbled cauliflower, celery, red onion, and dill to the bowl.
  5. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.
  6. Refrigerate for 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
  7. Serve chilled as a sandwich filling or salad topping.

Nutrition: Calories: 120 kcal | Protein: 4 g | Fat: 8 g | Carbs: 10 g

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Photo of author

Marta K

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