If I had to name a favorite vegetable, cauliflower would definitely be up there. It’s low carb, mild tasting enough that it is so versatile, and usually not too expensive to purchase. There are several kinds of cauliflower as well and how you store them really does matter. If you are a big fan of one of my favorite vegetables too, here are some tips for picking, storing and cooking cauliflower. You will also find 14 Savory Cauliflower Recipes for you to try out.
How to Store Cauliflower
Cauliflower needs to be stored in the refrigerator once it is harvested. It is best to cover it with plastic and keep it stored cold. This way, it can be stored for up to 2 or 3 weeks. If you intend on keeping it longer, wash it, break it off into florets, and allow to air dry. Transfer to freezer safe bags and freeze for up to 4 months. You can also puree it for soups and sauces and freeze it for a little longer. I like to freeze it into large cubes for later use.
Types of Cauliflower
You may think cauliflower is white, and while it usually is, there are a couple of types you should be aware of and what they taste like. They can all be used the same way as the white variety, but they have slightly different tastes.
Green-This is usually what is called Broccoflower, however it can mean two different things. It can either mean the immature plant and it’s green appearance or the hybrid plant of broccoli and cauliflower combined. The later tastes like cauliflower when raw and more like broccoli when cooked.
Purple Cauliflower- I think purple cauliflower tastes similar to red cabbage. This is probably because they both get their color from the same antioxidant.
Golden Cauliflower- Sometimes called “Cheddar” except this cauliflower doesn’t taste like cheese, it tastes more mild and sweet than the white counterpart.
Tips for Cooking Cauliflower
I love to roast cauliflower because it brings out the nuttiness in it and gets rid of some of the bitterness. It is as simple as setting your oven on high (such as a temperature of 400+ degrees) and tossing it in olive oil. Place it on a cookie sheet to roast for about 10 or 15 minutes. You can also saute cauliflower with just a few seasonings as well.
14 Savory Cauliflower Recipes
Try this perfect for Autumn side dish of Roasted Cauliflower and Sweet Potatoes from Premeditated Leftovers for your next meal. This would be a great way to add something new to your menu.
Try this at your next party! These Spicy Ranch Cauliflower “Wings” from Saved By Grace are perfect for serving up and they are low carb.
This Roasted Honey Garlic Cauliflower from Kirbie’s Cravings looks so delicious!
Switch things up with a new chili recipe. Try this Black Bean and Cauliflower Chili from Premeditated Leftovers next time!
Pickling is always a good way to preserve produce so make sure you check out this recipe and how-to on making Pickled Cauliflower from Recipe Girl.
Make Roasted Cauliflower and Basil Soup for something extra savory from Saved By Grace.
Cauliflower Pizza Crust is super easy to make and it gives you a grain-free and low carb option for pizza. Check out the recipe on Eat a Great Deal.
This Roasted Cauliflower and Brussel Sprouts Recipe from Premeditated Leftovers is a flavorful and healthy side.
Do your kids love tater tots and you want to give them a healthier alternative? They won’t even know with these Skinny Baked Cauliflower Tots from Gimme Delicious Food.
Did you know you can make a creamy sauce from cauliflower? Give this Creamy Curried Cauliflower Sauce from Saved By Grace a try. It would taste great on tofu, chicken. or beef.
Make mashed potatoes less carb-filled by using cauliflower to act as a filler. Try this recipe for Savory Mashed Potatoes with Cauliflower and Celeriac from Premeditated Leftovers.
For a yummy snack, try this Cauliflower “Popcorn” from guest contributor laqop via All Recipes.
Try this Lentil, Cauliflower, and Sweet Potato Curry for a super savory adventure on your dinner table from Mess Makes Food.
For a hearty vegetarian meal, try this Black Bean Salad with Tomatoes and Avocados from Premeditated Leftovers. It is loaded with cauliflower.
Cauliflower brownies? Yes, Please! With this recipe for Cauliflower Brownies from I Breathe, I’m Hungry I may be able to eat my favorite treat again!
Another great way to make cauliflower the center of your kids’ attention is to make these Cauliflower Nuggets from Honey and Figs. She says they are creamy on the inside, crispy on the outside, and so addictive.
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