Cauliflower with Ranch-Style Sauce

• 2½ teaspoons salt, or to taste
• 1 small cauliflower (about 1¾ pounds), cut

Bring a large saucepan of water (at least 2 quarts) to a boil; add 2 teaspoons of the salt. Add the cauliflower and cook at a rolling boil about 3 minutes. Drain and plunge into ice water to stop the cooking