The immense nutritious value of cauliflower has got us thinking about the fun and interesting ways to have it in diet

The goodness of cauliflower tops its versatility. In fact, its stem is equally delish and edible and can be added to soup or slaw. Some of the reasons why cauliflower should be integrated into diet are:

Protects against cardiovascular diseases

Supplies antioxidants like sulforaphane and choline

Protects against infection

Improves sleep and muscle movement

Supports weight management as low in calories

In the recent past, cauliflower has been celebrated as a potent alternative to rice and served as steaks and roasts. Its culinary fame has further led to many experiments that confirmed the possibility of enjoying the vegetable raw, pureed, grated, mashed, steamed, and roasted.

Cauliflower in Salads

Ingredients:

1 small head of cauliflower, cut into small florets

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1/2 cucumber, diced

1/4 red onion, thinly sliced

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled

2 tbsp olive oil

1 tbsp lemon juice

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

To start with, combine the cauliflower, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, parsley, and feta cheese in a bowl.

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.

Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat evenly.

Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to an hour before serving.

Pureed Cauliflower with Salt and Butter

Ingredients:

1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into florets

1/4 cup heavy cream or milk (optional for a creamier texture)

2 tbsp butter

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Steam the cauliflower florets until tender, about 10-15 minutes.

Transfer the cauliflower to a blender or food processor.

Add the butter, and if desired, the heavy cream or milk.

Puree until smooth.

Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve warm.

Mashed Cauliflower with Seasoning

Ingredients:

1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into florets

1/4 cup milk or cream

2 tbsp butter

Salt and pepper to taste. Garlic powder, cheese, or herbs are optional

Instructions:

Steam the cauliflower florets until tender, about 10-15 minutes.

Transfer the cauliflower to a blender or food processor.

Add the milk or cream, butter, and any optional ingredients, and blend it well.

Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve steaming hot.

Steamed and Warm Cauliflower

Ingredients:

1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into florets

2 tbsp butter, melted

1 tbsp lemon juice

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

Steam the cauliflower florets until tender, about 10-15 minutes.

In a small bowl, mix the melted butter and lemon juice.

Drizzle the lemon butter over the steamed cauliflower.

For some extra yum, season with salt and pepper, and sprinkle with fresh parsley if desired.

Cauliflower Steak

Ingredients:

1 large cauliflower head

2-3 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

Salt and pepper to taste, and fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Remove the green leaves from the cauliflower and trim the stem slightly, leave the core intact.

Slice the cauliflower into slices of 3/4”, creating "steaks." You should get about 2-3 steaks from a large head, with some smaller pieces likely breaking off.

Place the cauliflower steaks and any large pieces on the prepared baking sheet.

In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

Brush both sides of the cauliflower steaks with the seasoned olive oil mixture, and roast the cauliflower in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the edges are golden brown and the cauliflower is tender.

Garnish with fresh herbs and serve warm.