11 Fall Cauliflower Recipes for Healthy Eating

Creamy Cauliflower Soup With Thyme

creamy cauliflower soup recipe

Creamy Cauliflower Soup with Thyme is a comforting and velvety dish perfect for chilly fall days. This soup combines the subtle flavors of cauliflower and fresh thyme, creating a delightful appetizer or main course.

With a preparation time of about 30 minutes, the recipe is considered easy to moderate in difficulty, making it a perfect cooking project for both novice and experienced home chefs.

Ingredients:

  • 1 medium head of cauliflower, chopped into florets
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: grated Parmesan cheese for garnish

Cooking Instructions:

  1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic and thyme, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
  4. Add the cauliflower florets and pour in the vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer and cook until the cauliflower is tender, about 15 minutes.
  5. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup in batches to a blender.
  6. Stir in the heavy cream, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat the soup for a few more minutes without bringing it to a boil.
  7. Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Ingredient Suggestions and Replacements:

If you’re looking to lighten the recipe, you can substitute half-and-half or coconut milk in place of heavy cream.

For a dairy-free version, use unsweetened almond or cashew milk instead. Additionally, you can swap out the vegetable broth for chicken broth to enhance the flavor profile.

Variations:

Feel free to add other vegetables to the soup, such as potatoes or carrots, for added texture and flavor.

You can also incorporate spices like nutmeg or cayenne pepper for a little heat, or stir in some cooked bacon or pancetta for a non-vegetarian twist.

Cooking Tips:

To enhance the flavor of the soup, consider roasting the cauliflower florets before adding them to the pot for a deeper, caramelized taste.

Always taste and adjust seasoning accordingly, as the flavors can drastically change after blending.

Drinks to Pair With:

This creamy cauliflower soup pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc.

For non-alcoholic options, consider serving a sparkling water with a slice of lemon or a warm herbal tea to complement the comforting flavors of the soup.

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Roasted Cauliflower and Brussels Sprouts Salad

nutritious fall salad recipe

Roasted Cauliflower and Brussels Sprouts Salad is a hearty and nutritious dish that celebrates the flavors of fall. This vibrant salad combines caramelized cauliflower and Brussels sprouts with invigorating greens and a tangy dressing, making it perfect as a side or main course. With a preparation time of just 35 minutes, this recipe is simple to moderate in difficulty, ideal for both beginner and experienced cooks.

Ingredients:

  • 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into florets
  • 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 1/4 cup roasted nuts (almonds, walnuts, or pecans)
  • 1/4 cup dried cranberries or raisins
  • 1/4 cup feta cheese (optional)
  • Juice of 1 lemon

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower florets and halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
  3. Spread the vegetables in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden and tender, stirring halfway through for even cooking.
  4. Once roasted, let the vegetables cool slightly, then transfer them to a large salad bowl.
  5. Add the chopped parsley, roasted nuts, dried cranberries, and feta cheese if using. Drizzle with lemon juice and toss the salad gently to combine ingredients.

Ingredient Suggestions and Replacements:

For a lower-fat option, you can reduce the amount of olive oil or use a cooking spray instead.

If you’re looking for a nut-free variation, feel free to omit the nuts or substitute seeds like sunflower seeds.

You can also replace feta cheese with goat cheese or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free alternative.

Variations:

To enhance this salad, consider adding roasted chickpeas for added protein or thinly sliced apples or pears for a touch of sweetness.

You can also experiment with different dressings, such as a balsamic vinaigrette or a creamy tahini dressing, to suit your taste.

Cooking Tips:

Make sure to spread the vegetables out evenly on the baking sheet to guarantee they roast properly and achieve that nice caramelization.

If you prefer, you can also prep the salad in advance by roasting the vegetables and mixing the other ingredients separately, combining them just before serving to maintain freshness.

Drinks to Pair With:

This roasted cauliflower and Brussels sprouts salad pairs wonderfully with a light, fruity white wine like Pinot Grigio or a revitalizing sparkling water with citrus garnish.

For a comforting non-alcoholic option, consider pairing it with herbal iced tea.

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Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole

comforting cheesy cauliflower casserole

Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole is a comforting and rich dish that transforms humble cauliflower into a creamy, cheesy delight, perfect for fall dinners or family gatherings. This hearty casserole takes about 45 minutes to prepare and bake, making it a moderately easy recipe suitable for cooks of all skill levels.

Ingredients:

  • 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into florets
  • 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
  • 1 cup heavy cream or milk
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (for topping)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or chives (for garnish)

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Steam or boil the cauliflower florets for about 5-7 minutes until slightly tender; drain well and set aside.
  3. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the heavy cream (or milk), garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir in the shredded cheese until well combined.
  4. In a large baking dish, layer the steamed cauliflower florets, then pour the cheese mixture over the top.
  5. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs over the casserole for a crispy topping.
  6. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
  7. Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh herbs before serving.

Ingredient Suggestions and Replacements:

For a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with almond milk or low-fat milk. You can also use a dairy-free cheese alternative to make this dish vegan-friendly.

If you’re looking for more flavor, consider adding cooked bacon bits or sautéed onions to the cheese mixture.

Variations:

To enhance the flavor of your casserole, try mixing in some cooked broccoli or spinach for added nutrition and color.

You can also switch up the cheese types; try adding pepper jack for a spicy twist or goat cheese for a tangy flavor.

Cooking Tips:

Make sure to steam or boil the cauliflower just until tender, so it retains some texture during baking.

If the cheese mixture seems too thick, add a little more milk to reach your desired consistency. Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving to help it set.

Drinks to Pair With:

This cheesy cauliflower casserole pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine, such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc.

For a non-alcoholic option, consider serving it with a fresh citrus soda or a light herbal iced tea to complement the rich flavors of the dish.

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Spicy Cauliflower Tacos With Avocado Sauce

spicy vegetarian taco recipe

Spicy Cauliflower Tacos with Avocado Sauce are a flavorful and satisfying vegetarian dish that brings a bit of heat to your fall dinner table. Perfect for a quick meal, these tacos come together in about 30 minutes and are suitable for cooks of all skill levels.

Ingredients:

  • 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into small florets
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 8 small corn or flour tortillas
  • 1 avocado
  • 1/4 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a mixing bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
  3. Spread the seasoned cauliflower in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and tender, stirring halfway through.
  4. While the cauliflower is roasting, prepare the avocado sauce by blending the avocado, Greek yogurt (or sour cream), lime juice, and a pinch of salt until smooth.
  5. Warm the tortillas in a skillet or microwave. Once the cauliflower is done, assemble the tacos by placing the roasted cauliflower on each tortilla and drizzling with the avocado sauce. Garnish with fresh cilantro.
  6. Serve immediately, and enjoy!

Ingredient Suggestions and Replacements:

For a dairy-free version, substitute Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt or omit it altogether.

You can also replace the cauliflower with other vegetables, such as roasted sweet potatoes or chickpeas, to mix up the flavors.

Variations:

To add an extra crunch, consider topping the tacos with pickled red onions or cabbage slaw.

Spice lovers can incorporate fresh jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce for added heat.

For a more substantial taco, add black beans or shredded lettuce.

Cooking Tips:

Be sure to cut the cauliflower into bite-sized pieces to guarantee even roasting.

For a smoother avocado sauce, allow the ripe avocado to reach room temperature before blending.

Adjust the spice levels according to your taste preference by modifying the amount of chili powder used.

Drinks to Pair With:

These spicy cauliflower tacos pair well with a invigorating light beer or a margarita served on the rocks.

For a non-alcoholic option, try pairing them with a zesty lime-infused sparkling water or iced tea for a cooling effect.

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Cauliflower and Pumpkin Curry

creamy vegetarian fall curry

Cauliflower and Pumpkin Curry is a warm, comforting, and aromatic dish, perfect for cool fall evenings. This vegetarian curry is creamy, packed with flavor, and can be made in about 40 minutes, making it suitable for cooks of all skill levels.

Ingredients:

  • 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into florets
  • 2 cups cubed pumpkin (fresh or canned)
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
  • 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
  • 2 tablespoons curry powder
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • Fresh cilantro, for garnish
  • Cooked rice or naan, for serving

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
  2. Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  3. Add the curry powder, turmeric, and cumin, and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to toast the spices.
  4. Incorporate the cubed pumpkin and cauliflower florets into the pot, stirring well to coat with the spices.
  5. Pour in the coconut milk, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat and cover, allowing to cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
  6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust curry spices as desired.
  7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, alongside cooked rice or naan.

Ingredient Suggestions and Replacements:

For a lighter version, you can use reduced-fat coconut milk or substitute half of the coconut milk with vegetable broth.

If pumpkin is not available, butternut squash or sweet potatoes can serve as excellent alternatives.

Variations:

To add a protein boost, mix in chickpeas or lentils.

Those who enjoy some heat can add diced green chilies or red pepper flakes during cooking.

For extra texture, consider adding spinach or kale toward the end of cooking.

Cooking Tips:

Make sure to cut the pumpkin and cauliflower into uniform-sized pieces for even cooking.

If you want a thicker curry, let it simmer uncovered for a few minutes to reduce the liquid.

Adjust seasoning and spices according to your taste preference throughout the cooking process.

Drinks to Pair With:

This flavorful curry pairs beautifully with a light lager or an IPA, which will complement its warmth.

For a non-alcoholic option, try pairing it with chai tea or a revitalizing coconut water to enhance the tropical flavors of the coconut milk.

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Baked Cauliflower Bites With Garlic Aioli

healthy baked cauliflower bites

Baked Cauliflower Bites with Garlic Aioli are a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional fried snacks. They’re perfect for parties or as a wholesome appetizer for family dinners, requiring about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. This dish is easy to make and suitable for cooks of all skill levels.

Ingredients:

  • 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for a vegan option)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 eggs (or a flax egg for a vegan option)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Garlic Aioli:

  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise (or vegan mayo)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
  3. In another bowl, whisk together the eggs and olive oil until well combined.
  4. Dip each cauliflower floret into the egg mixture, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture, making certain they’re evenly covered, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
  5. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
  6. While the cauliflower is baking, prepare the garlic aioli by mixing together the mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
  7. Serve the baked cauliflower bites warm, garnished with fresh parsley and accompanied by the garlic aioli for dipping.

Ingredient Suggestions and Replacements:

For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed almonds instead. You can also swap out the Parmesan cheese for nutritional yeast for a dairy-free alternative.

If you prefer a different flavor, try adding spices like cayenne pepper or Italian seasoning to the breadcrumb mixture.

Variations:

Mix it up by adding various seasonings to the breadcrumb mixture, such as Italian herbs or chili powder for extra kick. You can also experiment with different dipping sauces, such as sriracha, buffalo sauce, or a yogurt dip.

Cooking Tips:

Make certain to dry the cauliflower florets thoroughly after washing to make them crispy in the oven.

Keep an eye on them toward the end of baking; ovens can vary, and you don’t want them to burn.

Drinks to Pair With:

These baked cauliflower bites pair wonderfully with a crisp, cold cider or a light white wine like Pinot Grigio.

For a non-alcoholic option, consider serving them with sparkling water flavored with lemon or a cool iced tea to balance the flavors.

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Cauliflower Fried Rice With Vegetables

healthy low carb meal option

Cauliflower Fried Rice with Vegetables is a healthy and flavorful dish that serves as a low-carb alternative to traditional fried rice. This quick and easy recipe takes about 20 minutes to prepare and cook, making it perfect for weeknight dinners. It’s suitable for novice home cooks seeking a nutritious and delicious meal.

Ingredients:

  • 1 medium head of cauliflower, grated (or 4 cups cauliflower rice)
  • 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, bell peppers, or your choice)
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
  • 2 green onions, sliced
  • 2 eggs, beaten (or tofu for a vegan option)
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil (or olive oil)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Start by grating the cauliflower into rice-sized pieces using a food processor or box grater. Set aside.
  2. Heat the sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat.
  3. Add the minced garlic and ginger, sautéing until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
  4. Toss in the mixed vegetables and cook for another 2-3 minutes until softened.
  5. Push the vegetable mix to one side of the pan and pour the beaten eggs (or tofu) into the other side, scrambling them quickly until fully cooked.
  6. Add the cauliflower rice to the skillet, followed by the soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
  7. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until the cauliflower is tender but not mushy.
  8. Finish by mixing in sliced green onions and adjust seasoning to taste before serving.

Ingredient Suggestions and Replacements:

For a different flavor profile, you can substitute the mixed vegetables with other options like broccoli, snap peas, or zucchini. If you’re avoiding soy, coconut aminos or liquid aminos can be great alternatives to soy sauce.

To keep it vegan, guarantee to swap eggs for tofu or omit them completely.

Variations:

Feel free to customize your cauliflower fried rice by adding proteins such as shredded chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for extra nutrition.

You can also experiment with different seasonings like sesame seeds, chili flakes, or even teriyaki sauce for a unique taste.

Cooking Tips:

Make certain to dry the grated cauliflower thoroughly to avoid excess moisture, which can make the dish watery.

Cooking the cauliflower rice quickly at high heat will produce a better texture, preventing it from becoming mushy.

Drinks to Pair With:

This dish pairs well with light beverages such as iced green tea, lemon water, or a revitalizing cucumber-infused drink.

Alternatively, a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, complements the dish nicely, enhancing the flavors without overpowering them.

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Herbed Cauliflower Mash

creamy herbed cauliflower mash

Herbed Cauliflower Mash is a creamy and flavorful alternative to traditional mashed potatoes, making it a perfect side dish for fall dinners. This recipe can be prepared in about 30 minutes and is suitable for cooks of all skill levels, delivering a comforting dish that’s both delicious and healthy.

Ingredients:

  • 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into florets
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (or olive oil for a vegan option)
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream (or plant-based milk for a dairy-free version)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cauliflower florets and cook until tender, about 10-12 minutes.
  2. Drain the cauliflower and return it to the pot. Allow it to sit for a minute or two to release some excess moisture.
  3. Add the butter, heavy cream, minced garlic, fresh parsley, chives, salt, and pepper to the pot.
  4. Using an immersion blender or a potato masher, blend until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary.
  5. Serve warm, garnished with additional herbs if desired.

Ingredient Suggestions and Replacements:

If you’re looking to switch up flavors, consider adding other herbs like thyme or rosemary. For a richer flavor, you can replace half of the cream with sour cream or Greek yogurt. For a vegan option, substitute the butter with olive oil and use a non-dairy milk alternative.

Variations:

To enhance the dish, try incorporating roasted garlic instead of fresh garlic for a sweeter, mellow flavor. You can also add some grated cheese like Parmesan or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor, or mix in cooked and crumbled bacon for a smoky taste.

Cooking Tips:

Ensure that you drain the cauliflower well after boiling to avoid watery mash. If you prefer a chunkier texture, you can mash the cauliflower by hand rather than blending it until smooth. Adjust the creaminess by adding more or less cream depending on your preference.

Drinks to Pair With:

Herbed Cauliflower Mash pairs beautifully with white wines such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc. For a non-alcoholic option, consider a sparkling apple cider or herbal iced tea to complement the herbaceous flavors.

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Stuffed Cauliflower Steaks With Quinoa

hearty stuffed cauliflower steaks

Stuffed Cauliflower Steaks With Quinoa is a hearty and nutritious dish that showcases the versatility of cauliflower. This recipe is perfect for a meat-free meal, offering a delightful combination of flavors and textures. It takes about 45 minutes to prepare and is suitable for all skill levels, making it an excellent choice for a satisfying dinner.

Ingredients:

  • 1 large head of cauliflower
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • 1/2 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1/2 cup corn, fresh or frozen
  • 1/2 cup diced bell peppers
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
  • Olive oil for brushing

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Remove the leaves and stem from the cauliflower and slice it into 1-inch thick “steaks.”
  3. Brush both sides of the cauliflower steaks with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Place them on the baking sheet.
  4. In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, black beans, corn, bell peppers, red onion, cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
  5. Spoon the quinoa mixture onto the cauliflower steaks, pressing down gently to secure the filling.
  6. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender and golden.
  7. Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh cilantro, then serve warm.

Ingredient Suggestions and Replacements:

Feel free to customize the stuffing by incorporating other vegetables like zucchini or spinach. For added flavor, you can include spices like paprika or smoked paprika.

If quinoa isn’t available, brown rice or couscous can be excellent substitutes.

Variations:

To elevate this dish, consider topping the stuffed cauliflower steaks with shredded cheese before baking for a gooey finish.

You can also experiment by drizzling balsamic reduction or avocado crema over the top just before serving to add a gourmet touch.

Cooking Tips:

For even cooking, verify that your cauliflower steaks are of uniform thickness.

If any pieces fall apart while cooking, simply use them as a delicious side dish. Additionally, if you prefer a slightly firmer texture, reduce the baking time by a few minutes.

Drinks to Pair With:

Stuffed Cauliflower Steaks With Quinoa pair wonderfully with a light-bodied red wine such as Pinot Noir or a crisp white wine such as Pinot Grigio.

For a reviving non-alcoholic option, sparkling water with a squeeze of lime or a fruity mocktail will complement the flavors beautifully.

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Cauliflower Chowder With Bacon

creamy cauliflower bacon chowder

Cauliflower Chowder With Bacon is a creamy, comforting dish that perfectly captures the essence of fall. This chowder is packed with flavor, featuring the rich taste of bacon combined with the wholesome goodness of cauliflower. With a preparation time of about 30 minutes, this recipe is relatively easy to follow, making it suitable for both novice and experienced cooks.

Ingredients:

  • 1 large head of cauliflower, chopped
  • 4 strips of bacon, diced
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon thyme
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh chives or parsley for garnish

Cooking Instructions:

  1. In a large pot over medium heat, cook the diced bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.
  2. Add the chopped onion to the pot and sauté until golden, followed by the minced garlic, cooking for an additional minute.
  3. Stir in the chopped cauliflower, vegetable broth, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil and then reduce heat to simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender.
  4. Once the cauliflower is cooked, use an immersion blender to puree the soup to your desired consistency (or transfer to a blender in batches).
  5. Stir in the heavy cream and adjust seasoning as needed. Reheat gently if necessary.
  6. Serve the chowder hot, topped with the reserved bacon and garnished with fresh herbs.

Ingredient Suggestions and Replacements:

For a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative. If you want additional flavor, consider adding diced leeks or carrots to the chowder. For extra protein, add cooked chicken or beans.

Variations:

You can customize this chowder by adding different vegetables such as corn, potatoes, or bell peppers. To make a spicy version, add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce. For a fun twist, top the chowder with croutons or shredded cheese just before serving.

Cooking Tips:

To enhance the flavor, verify that the bacon is cooked until crispy, as this adds depth to the chowder. When blending the soup, achieve your desired texture, whether creamy or chunky. If you prefer a thicker chowder, allow it to simmer a little longer after blending.

Drinks to Pair With:

Cauliflower Chowder With Bacon pairs excellently with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a cooling hard cider. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, a sparkling water with a slice of lemon would complement the rich flavors beautifully.

Cauliflower Pizza Crust Topped With Fall Vegetables

gluten free fall vegetable pizza

Cauliflower Pizza Crust Topped With Fall Vegetables is a delicious, gluten-free alternative to traditional pizza that embodies the flavors of the season. Perfect for a cozy night in, this dish takes about 45 minutes to prepare and is suitable for cooks of any skill level.

Ingredients:

  • 1 large head of cauliflower, riced
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup mixed fall vegetables (e.g., Brussels sprouts, butternut squash, and spinach) chopped
  • 1/2 cup marinara sauce
  • Olive oil for drizzling

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Steam the riced cauliflower for about 5 minutes, then squeeze out excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the cauliflower, mozzarella, Parmesan, eggs, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until mixed well.
  4. Form the cauliflower mixture into a pizza crust shape on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for about 20 minutes or until golden and firm.
  5. While the crust is baking, sauté the mixed fall vegetables in a pan with a little olive oil until tender.
  6. Remove the crust from the oven, spread the marinara sauce evenly over it, and top with the sautéed vegetables.
  7. Return the topped pizza to the oven and bake for another 10-15 minutes until the vegetables are heated through.
  8. Drizzle with olive oil, slice, and enjoy!

Ingredient Suggestions and Replacements:

If you’re looking for a low-fat option, use reduced-fat cheese for the crust. You can also substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) for a vegan version.

For added flavor, consider incorporating herbs like basil or oregano into the dough.

Variations:

For a more robust pizza, top the crust with roasted garlic, caramelized onions, or even slices of avocado. You could also switch up the vegetables based on what’s in season; mushrooms, kale, or roasted red peppers would work beautifully.

For those who enjoy a little heat, add sliced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes.

Cooking Tips:

Make sure to thoroughly squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the riced cauliflower to avoid a soggy crust.

If the crust is too fragile, bake it a little longer before adding toppings to create a sturdier base. Keep an eye on it to get your desired crispiness.

Drinks to Pair With:

Cauliflower Pizza Crust Topped With Fall Vegetables pairs wonderfully with a light-bodied red wine, such as Pinot Noir, or for a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling apple cider offers a revitalizing contrast to the savory pizza.

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Hi! I’m Emily. I’m a cozy‑kitchen tinkerer turning everyday ingredients into crave‑worthy plates—quick sizzles, bright flavors, and zero fuss, always with a smile. Playlist on, whisk in hand, I chase comfort that tastes a little sparkly and a lot homemade—playful, practical, and unapologetically delicious.