4 Creative Ways to Cook Cauliflower
Article posted in: Food & Nutrition
Cauliflower is a versatile, nutrient-packed vegetable that deserves a spot on every table. From its ability to mimic the texture of rice to creating a creamy mash, it’s a blank canvas for culinary creativity. Here, we’ll explore four creative and delicious ways to cook cauliflower that will help you discover your next favorite side dish. Whether you’re looking for the best way to cook cauliflower or learning how to cook cauliflower for mashed potatoes, these ideas have you covered.
1. Roasted Cauliflower
A tried and true method for many vegetables, roasting is one of the best ways to cook cauliflower. Cauliflower holds up very well in the oven. Plus, it enhances its natural sweetness and becomes lightly crispy, which adds a bit of texture to an otherwise soft, yet sturdy vegetable. Roasting is a simple, flavorful method that works well for any meal.
How to Cook Roasted Cauliflower
- Preheat your oven to 450°F.
- Cut cauliflower into florets and toss them with olive oil and turmeric for a golden hue.
- Spread the florets onto a baking sheet in a single layer.
- Roast for about 25 minutes.
Experiment with other flavor enhancers, such as garlic, red pepper flakes or fresh rosemary to keep your roasted cauliflower exciting.
Recipe Pairing Ideas
Roasted cauliflower adds to the delicious vegetable medley in our Seasoned Steak entree. You can also roast cauliflower in some hot sauce and then top off your Three Cheese Macaroni with some vegetable heat!
2. Mashed Cauliflower
If you’re wondering how to cook cauliflower for mashed potatoes, this method is for you! Part of cauliflower’s appeal is its ability to act as an amazing substitute for entrees that are traditionally served with potatoes. Mashed cauliflower is an excellent low-carb alternative to traditional mashed potatoes, offering the same creamy texture with fewer calories.
How to Cook Mashed Cauliflower
- Boil cauliflower florets in water for about 15 minutes, or until the stalks are soft.
- Drain and blend the florets in a food processor with 1 tablespoon of fat-free cream cheese and garlic.
- Place the mixture in a casserole dish, sprinkle with paprika, and bake at 350°F for 20 minutes until bubbly.
For a dairy-free option, try our mashed cauliflower recipe which uses simple pantry staples like olive oil, garlic, salt and pepper!
Recipe Pairing Ideas
Mashed cauliflower adds a shepherd’s pie feel to our Meatloaf and Vegetable Medley. It would also mix in very easily with the mashed potatoes in our Cheesy Mashed Potatoes and Fried Chicken.
3. Cauliflower Tots
Craving a crispy, bite-sized treat? Cauliflower tots are a healthy, delicious option that the whole family will love.
How to Cook Cauliflower Tots
- Grate cooked cauliflower into fine pieces.
- Mix it with egg whites, diced onion and 1 tablespoon of parmesan cheese.
- Form the mixture into small tot shapes and place them on a baking sheet.
- Bake at 350°F for 20 minutes. Flip and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until golden and crisp.
Recipe Pairing Ideas
Tater tots are a classic French fry alternate, so they pair perfectly with a Classic Cheeseburger. You can also enjoy them as a breakfast side with our Sunshine Sandwich for a satisfying start to your day.
4. Cauliflower Rice
Riced cauliflower is a popular low-carb alternative to traditional rice. It’s quick to make and absorbs flavors beautifully, making it ideal for pairing with stews, soups, curries and saucy dishes.
How to Cook Cauliflower Rice
- Cut cauliflower into florets and pulse them in a food processor until finely coarse (resembling couscous).
- Heat a large skillet with cooking oil and sauté the cauliflower for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Season with fresh parsley and lemon juice.
You can create many variations of this side, such as cilantro lime cauliflower rice made with fresh squeezed lime juice and chopped cilantro. You could also add a touch of soy sauce to create a stir-fry with other vegetables, such as bell peppers, onions and bok choy. The possibilities are endless!
Short on time? Frozen riced cauliflower is a convenient option. Just heat and serve!
Recipe Pairing Ideas
Since cauliflower rice can absorb sauce and liquid extremely well, add some to our Chicken and Wild Rice Soup for some additional hearty vegetable nutrition. Cilantro lime cauliflower rice mixes great with peppers, onions and black beans that come with our Chicken Fajita Bowl.
Cauliflower Recipe Ideas
Cauliflower’s versatility allows it to fit seamlessly into countless dishes. Whether you’re making mashed cauliflower for a homestyle dinner, cauliflower rice for a low-carb stir-fry or roasted cauliflower for a crispy side, there’s no limit to the ways you can use this superfood in your cooking.
By exploring these creative methods, you’ll not only master how to cook cauliflower but also discover exciting ways to incorporate it into your meals. Start experimenting today and elevate your vegetable game!