Cauliflower is one of several vegetables in the cruciferous, or brassica, family. This family also includes broccoli, cabbage, brussels sprouts, and kale. People most often identify cauliflower in its white flesh, but you can also find it in orange, green, and purple. These cauliflower colors can pop in any salad, soup, or stir fry.
Cauliflower has been around for centuries. Cauliflower was associated with Cyprus island through the Middle Ages, and it was introduced into Western Europe in the 12th century. It wasn’t until the late 1600s that it began to appear on dining tables regularly, having been introduced to France from Italy. In 1822, England introduced cauliflower to India, and the rest is history.
Cauliflower is packed full of antioxidants, phytochemicals, and enzymes. Cauliflower also provides vitamins E, K, and C.
Some of the health benefits of cauliflower include:
• Digestion improvement – A good source of fiber, it can aid issues such as IBS, constipation, and stomach infections.
• Brain function – High in choline, it helps promote brain function and intellectual capacity.
• Weight control – The high fiber and water content make this a low-calorie, high-nutrient food that aids in weight loss. It also flushes toxins from the body that can slow your metabolism.
Cauliflower is a vegetable that I crave, so I am always finding ways to prepare it.
This puréed Cauliflower Soup is creamy and smooth. It’s perfect for a Fall or Winter day, and I love it for breakfast. Hey, I know it’s Spring, but soup is one of my favorite things to eat, so I make it year-round.
Try this Spicy Roasted Cauliflower as a primary or side dish. It’s a perfect complement to any protein.