The Power of Cauliflower

Cauliflower has never been more popular. You see it used as a core ingredient in a number of traditional dishes. Why is it suddenly the most versatile and highly-sought-after cruciferous vegetable? Because it delivers health benefits as well as a delicious alternative to starchy foods.

What’s so Healthy about Cauliflower?

Cauliflower is rich in a variety of vitamins and minerals. It is a great source of vitamin C, which has been shown to boost immunity and improve skin health. It also contains vitamin K, which aids in blood clotting and bone health. In addition, there are trace amounts of vitamin B6 and folate, nutrients that play a role in energy production and cell metabolism.

Cauliflower is so great because it is so versatile and full of fiber and nutrients. I love it steamed with dinner, raw with dip, or in place of rice to add extra veggies to my meals.

Carolyn Schut, MS, RD, LD, CLC Registered Dietitian, Health Plan of Nevada

Cauliflower Is Fiber-Rich

Another reason to make cauliflower your go-to for healthier alternatives is that it’s packed with fiber, which can help promote weight loss and aid the digestive system. Fiber-rich foods help us feel fuller, so there is less temptation to binge eat. Fiber moves through the system gradually, so it feeds healthy bacteria and may prevent inflammation.

Cauliflower May Be Easily Incorporated into Your Daily Diet

There are many ways to add cauliflower to your diet without giving up the satisfaction of your favorite starchy foods. For example, try one of the many premade cauliflower pizza crusts in the frozen food section of your grocery store (just beware of added ingredients like brown rice flour). Top them just like a normal crust with your favorite pizza toppings like cheese, peppers, olives, mushrooms, spinach, or pineapple.

Cauliflower is also a tremendous conduit for flavor and has a great texture, so you can use it instead of rice or mashed potatoes. Steam and pulse in a food processor for a rice texture or mash for a potato consistency. Once cauliflower is riced or mashed and seasoned, you’d hardly know you’re eating something so healthy and low in carbohydrates. 

Cauliflower can also be roasted, steamed, or grilled. Mix up a delicious marinade and create a satisfying meat alternative and main dish for vegans and vegetarians, like in our pasta with cauliflower walnut “meat” sauce. It always works as a delicious side dish as well.

Recipes abound for this versatile vegetable, which can be eaten raw or cooked, dipped in dressing, or covered in sauce. Take some time to explore cauliflower recipes, and you’ll find there are unlimited ways to incorporate this healthy veggie into your diet.