Cauliflower is one of the most underrated vegetables. It is so versatile, and so delicious raw, roasted, sautéed, boiled, and even pickled. We absolutely adore cauliflower and feel it doesn’t always get the credit it deserves.
Cauliflower has been popular in Europe since the 1500’s but did not start growing in the United States until the 1900’s. Since then it has gained popularity as a suitable substitute for many dishes. Cauliflower is used in everything from sauces, to mashed potatoes, as a rice substitution, to vegetarian “chicken wings”.
It comes in many different colors, the most popular being white, but you can also find shades of purple, orange and green. Purple, orange and green cauliflowers are the result of cross breeding cauliflower with different vegetables such as broccoli. These plants are not necessarily GMO, as these crosses can occur naturally. Different colored cauliflower provides different nutritional profiles as they possess separate phytochemicals with health benefits.
Cauliflower is a member of the cruciferous vegetable family; other members in the family include broccoli, kale, Brussels sprouts, and turnips. The name cruciferous comes from the flowers of these plants that have four petals resembling a Greek cross. Plants in this family are especially rich in glucosinolates, which is a substance that fights off certain types of cancers by protecting cells from damage. Glucosinolates also help lower inflammation and have antiviral and antibacterial properties.
Not only is cauliflower delicious, versatile, and cancer fighting, it also has a ton of other health benefits. One serving of cauliflower provides 100% percent of the daily recommended value for vitamin C, about 25% of the recommended value for vitamin K, and provides calcium, iron, magnesium and potassium. Eating cauliflower can also help keep you hydrated, as over 90% percent of the plant is water. It is also an excellent source of fiber.
We have truly learned to appreciate cauliflower for all that it is, and we have highlighted this delectable vegetable on a few places in our Winter 2023 menu. Try our Chicken Cauliflower Alfredo Pasta or our new Balsamic Marinated Cauliflower Steak, served with rosemary roasted potatoes and maple carrots.
Sources:
https://dpi.wi.gov/sites/default/files/imce/school-nutrition/pdf/fact-sheet-cauliflower.pdf
https://www.webmd.com/food-recipes/health-benefits-cauliflower
