Cauliflower Power!
Cauliflower may not have been your first favorite vegetable, but it may become the star of your kitchen after you learn more about its remarkable profile of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and phytochemicals. With its many nutritional benefits, cauliflower is officially a Superfood in addition to being incredibly versatile.
▪ Cauliflower is rich in healthy vitamins and minerals, including beta-carotene, lutein, and vitamins C, E, and K; and folate.
▪ One serving of cauliflower contains 75 percent of the recommended daily value of vitamin C.
▪ Cauliflower is a good source of choline, a B vitamin that aids in brain development and may improve cognitive abilities and prevent against age-related memory loss.
▪ Cauliflower is a powerful cancer-fighting food. It contains sulfur-containing chemicals called glucosinolates. During digestion, glucosinolates form the compounds indoles and isothiocyanates. According to the National Cancer Institute, indoles and isothiocyanates (in laboratory tests) have been found to inhibit the development of cancer, including breast, colon, lung, stomach, and bladder cancer.
▪ These compounds also have antiviral, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects. (See my recipe that combines cauliflower with turmeric to reduce inflammation!)
▪ Cauliflower is a great source of good fiber – aiding digestion and helping you feel fuller, longer.
▪ Choose a head of cauliflower that’s firm and creamy white – no brown or yellow spots. Heads with green leaves typically indicate that they are fresh.
Cauliflower is also an incredibly versatile veggie and makes a delicious substitute for several empty calorie foods. Instead of mashed potatoes, try making Truffled Cauliflower Mash. Need a comfort food fix? How about making some Cauliflower Shepherd's Pie. You can pulse cauliflower florets in a food processor into small rice sized bits and use it in place of rice or quinoa, and you can even make pizza crust with it. I personally love it simply steamed and drizzled with good extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice and sea salt.
If you want a super-versatile veggie that’s fights cancer and memory loss; that’s an anti-inflammatory, antiviral and antibacterial; that aids digestion, detoxification and brain health – then look no further than the mighty cauliflower!
