Neapolitan Cauliflower Salad - La Rinforzata - cooking recipe

Ingredients

1 kg cauliflower
1 onion, red, sliced thin
10 black olives, coarsely chopped
10 green olives, Sliced, pimiento-stuffed
3 small gherkins, chopped
2 tablespoons capers
8 anchovies (optional)
2/3 cup olive oil
1/3 cup white wine vinegar
salt
fresh ground pepper
2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped

Preparation

Trim the cauliflower and separate it into flowerets. Steam or poach in boiling water to cover for 5 minutes. Plunge immediately into cold water and drain thoroughly.
Place the blanched flowerets in a large bowl and add the onion, black and green olives, gherkins, capers and anchovies.
Combine the oil and vinegar, add salt and pepper to taste and blend well. Pour the dressing over the salad, sprinkle with basil and toss gently to coat well.
Chill for a few hours, stirring occasionally to blend the flavors. Serve slightly chilled or at room temeprature.