Keto Fauxtato Salad
Creamy keto fauxtato salad swaps potatoes for tender cauliflower in a tangy mustard-mayo dressing with celery, egg, and pickle. Just 4.2g net carbs per serving and ready in 35 minutes total. The crowd-pleasing low-carb side for cookouts and meal prep.
Head of Nutrition · June 18, 2026
Nutrition per serving
Per serving · makes 6. Values are estimates; brands vary.
This keto fauxtato salad delivers all the creamy, tangy comfort of classic potato salad by swapping starchy potatoes for tender cauliflower. It's the perfect low-carb side for barbecues, picnics, and weekly meal prep.
Ingredients
- 1 large head cauliflower (about 6 cups florets), cut into bite-size pieces
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 3 large hard-boiled eggs, chopped
- 2 medium celery stalks, finely diced
- 1/4 cup finely diced dill pickle
- 2 tablespoons finely diced red onion
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika, for garnish
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
Instructions
- 1
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cauliflower florets and cook for 6 to 8 minutes, until fork-tender but not mushy. Drain well and spread on a towel-lined tray to cool and dry completely, about 10 minutes.
- 2
In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, mustard, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- 3
Add the cooled cauliflower, chopped eggs, celery, pickle, and red onion to the dressing. Fold gently until everything is evenly coated.
- 4
Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld and the dressing set.
- 5
Just before serving, dust with smoked paprika and scatter the fresh chives over the top.
Tips & notes
- Drying the cauliflower thoroughly is key — excess water thins the dressing and makes the salad watery.
- Stores covered in the fridge for up to 4 days; stir before serving as the dressing may separate slightly.
- For extra richness, swap one tablespoon of mayo for sour cream or full-fat Greek yogurt.
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Frequently asked questions
- How many carbs are in keto fauxtato salad?
- Each of the 6 servings has 4.2g net carbs (6.4g total carbs minus 2.2g fiber), 198 calories, 5.8g protein, and 17.4g fat — making it an easy fit for a keto or low-carb side.
- Can I make keto fauxtato salad ahead of time?
- Yes, it's actually better made ahead. Prepare it up to a day in advance and chill — the resting time lets the cauliflower absorb the tangy dressing. Add the paprika and chives just before serving.
- Does cauliflower really taste like potato salad?
- When boiled just until tender and tossed in a classic mustard-mayo dressing, cauliflower takes on a soft, starchy-like texture and soaks up the same tangy flavors, so it reads as creamy potato salad without the carbs.
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CarbMeNot provides general nutrition information, not medical advice. Values are estimates — verify before relying on them for any health decision. See our Medical Disclaimer.