Versatile Cauliflower

When it comes to replicating grain-based dishes without the grains, cauliflower saves the day. It boasts a few unique characteristics that makes this veggie an unbelievably versatile ingredient:

• When steamed, it has a bland flavor just like rice or flour, so it never overpowers a dish
• It provides structure and bulk to recipes without grains, making it the perfect faux-rice
• When steamed and pureed, it turns silky and velvety (a perfect substitute for cream sauce or mashed potatoes)
• It is white, so it doesn’t weird out picky eaters

Flexible and amiable, cauliflower is a staple in grain-free recipes. Here 10 of the best Paleo uses for cauliflower: 

1. Paleo Cauliflower Wraps

If you are a long-time reader of Empowered Sustenance then you are probably familiar with my Cauliflower Wraps. They make a grain-free alternative to regular wraps and are tender and pliable. Use them with sandwich or taco fillings!

2. Paleo Cauliflower Biscuits

These zero-flour cauliflower biscuit/muffins are just one more testament to the versatility of cauliflower. The biscuits bake up light, tender and perfectly savory.

3. Paleo Cauliflower “Mashed Potatoes”

If you have moderate familiarity with the internet “healthy food” scene, you have probably read that mashed cauliflower makes a surprising substitute for mashed potatoes. Potatoes are potentially inflammatory nightshades, plus the starches can be hard to digest. Try Toasted Garlic Cauliflower Whip.

4. Paleo Cauliflower Tater Tots

Once again, cauliflower replaces potatoes in a fan favorite… tater tots! These simple, baked cauliflower tater tots make a filling snack or appetizer.

5. Paleo Cauliflower Rice

Are you missing rice on a grain free diet? Cauliflower provides an easy alternative! Try Mexican Cauliflower Rice, Masala Cauliflower Rice or Cauliflower Fried Rice.

6. Paleo Cauliflower Alfredo Sauce

Unbelievable. Really. It looks just like regular alfredo sauce and boasts the same silky, rich texture. Here is a recipe with a helpful video from Youtube’s beloved chef, Chef John. For a dairy free option, use coconut milk instead of the cream and omit the cheese. I love cauliflower alfredo over spiralized zucchini noodles.

7. Paleo Cauliflower “Hummus” (No Bean Hummus)

For those craving a legume-free version of hummus, try cauliflower hummus with veggie sticks or crackers.

8. Paleo Cauliflower Risotto

Cauliflower rice is taken to the next level in a creamy cauliflower risotto. You are only six ingredients away from this scrumptious side dish.

9. Paleo Cauliflower Fritters

Mmm… I could eat cauliflower fritters for breakfast, lunch and dinner! I use my recipe for Curry Broccoli Fritter by substituting cauliflower (steamed or roasted) in place of the broccoli. You could also try The Healthy Foodie’s popular Cauliflower Fritters recipe.

10. Cauliflower Pizza Crust

And for the piece de resistance, we have the renowned Cauliflower Pizza Crust. It tastes just like a bread base, plus it looks just like a regular crust so even the less-adventurous eaters in your family will approve.

Is cauliflower a staple in your house? Have you tried any of these uses for cauliflower?