Cauliflower-Bacon "Mac & Cheese" Gratin with Mixed Greens

Directions

1. Fill a medium saucepan halfway with water, season lightly with salt, and bring to a boil.
2. Wash and cut the cauliflower into bite-sized pieces, discarding the leaves and thick stem.
3. When the water boils, add the cauliflower and cook until tender-crisp, about 6–8 minutes; drain well and set aside.
4. Heat an ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat. Add the bacon and cook until crisp, then transfer to a paper-towel-lined plate and crumble when cooled.
5. Preheat your oven to broil on high and position the rack close to the heat.
6. Cut the cream cheese into small pieces and grate the cheddar; set aside.
7. Return the skillet with the bacon fat to medium heat and pour in the milk, whisking with spices until the mixture simmers.
8. Add the cream cheese a bit at a time, whisking until melted and smooth, about 2–3 minutes; then whisk in the cheddar until melted.
9. Stir the cauliflower into the cheese sauce, then sprinkle with the remaining cheddar. Transfer the skillet to the oven and broil until the top is golden and bubbly, 2–3 minutes.
10. Whisk oil, vinegar, Dijon, salt, and pepper in a medium bowl to make the dressing. Toss the spring greens with the dressing just before serving.
11. Divide the cauliflower bake among plates, sprinkle the bacon on top, and serve with the dressed greens on the side.