Five Reasons Why I Love Cauliflower

I just love cauliflower, plain and simple.   This cruciferous vegetable is a powerhouse in the body as well as in the kitchen.  Not sure if you agree with me?  Read on to find out about the five reasons why I love cauliflower.

1.  Cauliflower is a superhero in the vegetable world.  Not only is it low in calories (29 per serving) and high in fiber (9 grams per 100 calories), but it has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and detoxification properties.  And if that wasn’t enough of a reason to love cauliflower, this nutrient-dense power food is also one of the most versatile vegetables around.

2.  Cauliflower makes a great take-along snack.  It won’t get mushy or bruised like some other vegetables.  Cut the tough green leaves away from the head (called the curd) and then cut the stems of the florets into the size you want.   Cauliflower is a great snack at school, at work, on a picnic, or at the beach.  Don’t be afraid to plunge the florets into hummus,  guacamole, salsa or whatever dip suits your fancy; those curds will hang on and not break like a greasy chip or cracker.

3.  Cauliflower will feed the masses.  Roasted cauliflower is my go-to vegetable when I am hosting a dinner, or on a night when I just want a quick side dish.  All you need is a head of cauliflower, some garlic (fresh or the jarred kind), some olive oil and some salt.  In 20-25 minutes, you have a slightly nutty, slightly sweet, and totally delicious side dish.

4.  Cauliflower is an awesome substitute.  Looking for grain replacement ideas?  Look no further than cauliflower!  It’s a perfect addition to a grain-free or gluten-free diet.  Take the roasted cauliflower and pulse it in a food processor until it resembles couscous.   The texture is so similar, and the flavor so yummy, that you won’t even miss couscous.  Omnivores will love it too.  Try this recipe, you won’t be sorry.

5.  Picky eaters love cauliflower and don’t even know it!  Do you have picky eaters among you?  What I love about cauliflower is that even picky eaters will eat it; if you disguise it, that is! Steam up some in the microwave and puree it in food processor or with an immersion blender until it’s smooth (you may have to add a little water to get it really smooth).  Add 1/2 cup to your macaroni and cheese recipe or 1 cup your lasagna recipe (mix it with the ricotta cheese).  Freeze the leftovers in 1/2 cup portions for future recipes.  All the benefits of cauliflower and none of the vegetable negotiations with your picky ones.  Shh, I won’t tell if you won’t.

If cauliflower is not yet on your family’s favorites list, try out some of these serving suggestions  and I promise you this:  You will convert any cauliflower naysayers into cauliflower yaysayers!