At about this same time last year, I started my love affair with cauliflower. I am not sure how it all came about. I remember being at the grocery store and seeing the clean, bright white heads all bunched together and peeking up at me. I thought, wow, it’s been a while since I’ve eaten cauliflower and it’s one of my favorite vegetables. Every time I went shopping, I would tell myself to pick a different vegetable, not to get too attached to cauliflower. Then I would find myself back in front of them again, choosing my favorite one from among their creamy florets.
Cauliflower are part of the cruciferous family of vegetables which also include broccoli, brussels sprouts, cabbage, collard greens and kale. Since they are a great source of antioxidants, eating cruciferous vegetables protects against cancer, in particular cancers of the bladder, breast, colon, prostate and ovaries. Cauliflower is an excellent source of vitamin C, vitamin K and folate. It is also low in fat, low calorie, high in water content, a good source of fiber and contains phytonutrients such as beta-carotene and other carotenoids.
So, how do I cook this delicious vegetable that earns three Guiding Stars? I either make it into a kind of mash or use it in a microwave “stir fry.” Both of these recipes are simple and super quick to prepare once the cauliflower is ready.
Simply Mashed Cauliflower
- Cut up cauliflower into florets and steam until just fork tender.
- Pour off and save the water used to steam for “broth.”
- Mash the cauliflower up in the warm saucepan.
- Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with grated Parmesan or Romano cheese.
- Mix some of the broth into the mashed cauliflower and enjoy!
Microwave Cauliflower Stir Fry
- Cut up cauliflower into florets and steam until just fork tender.
- To make one serving, use about ¼ of the head and place it into a bowl.
- Add firm tofu cubes or cut-up cooked chicken. (optional)
- Drizzle with olive oil, sesame oil and low-sodium soy sauce.
- Sprinkle with garlic powder and dried parsley.
- Microwave until hot, stir and enjoy!
The stir fry recipe is a great way to use leftover cooked cauliflower. I found these dishes to be both satisfying and filling and eat cauliflower at least twice a week for most of the late winter and early spring, when it is in season. While I write this I am getting distracted–I feel a craving coming on…