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.

Keto Fauxtato Salad: 4.2g Net Carbs

Name: Keto Fauxtato Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: Keto
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

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.

Jordan Lee

Head of Nutrition · June 18, 2026

15 min

Prep

10 min

Cook

25 min

Ready in

Servings

Easy

Difficulty

Nutrition per serving

4.2g

Net carbs

2.2g

Fiber

6.4g

Total carbs

5.8g

Protein

17.4g

Fats

198

Calories

Per serving · makes 6. Values are estimates; brands vary.

ketolow carbcauliflowerside dishgluten free

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

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.

In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, mustard, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper until smooth.

Add the cooled cauliflower, chopped eggs, celery, pickle, and red onion to the dressing. Fold gently until everything is evenly coated.

Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld and the dressing set.

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.