Cauliflower is a nutrient dense vegetable that is often overlooked or seen as the bland step-sister to broccoli. However, when bought fresh and crisp it has a light nutty flavor, and pairs well with mushrooms, olives, tomatoes, peppers, feta cheese and yogurt. It’s flavor can be changed up or enhanced by using different herbs, spices and oils. Surprisingly, this Vitamin-C packed vegetable can be found in multiple colors (white, purple, green, orange) and can be used to make an incredible variety of dishes, like cauliflower mashed potatoes or pizza crust! Whether you are looking to be creative, healthier or gluten free – try a new recipe this week!
CAULIFLOWER PIZZA CRUST
serves 2. adapted from Your Lighter Side
ingredients
1 cup cooked, riced cauliflower
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 egg, beaten
1 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp crushed garlic
1/2 tsp garlic salt
olive oil (optional)
pizza sauce, shredded cheese and your choice of toppings*
directions
To “Rice” the Cauliflower:
Take 1 large head of fresh cauliflower, remove stems and leaves, and chop the florets into chunks. Add to food processor and pulse until it looks like grain. Do not over-do pulse or you will puree it. (If you don’t have a food processor, you can grate the whole head with a cheese grater). Place the riced cauliflower into a microwave safe bowl and microwave for 8 minutes (some microwaves are more powerful than others, so you may need to reduce this cooking time. If you don’t have a microwave, steam the cauliflower florets on the stove before ricing – OR don’t cook and try dry. That works, too!). There is no need to add water, as the natural moisture in the cauliflower is enough to cook itself.
One large head should produce approximately 3 cups of riced cauliflower. The remainder can be used to make additional pizza crusts immediately, or can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week.
To Make the Pizza Crust:
Preheat oven to 450 degrees. Spray a cookie sheet with non-stick cooking spray.
In a medium bowl, stir together 1 cup cauliflower, egg and mozzarella. Add oregano, crushed garlic and garlic salt, stir. Transfer to the cookie sheet, and using your hands, pat out into a 9″ round. Optional: Brush olive oil over top of mixture to help with browning.
Bake at 450 degrees for 15 minutes.
Remove from oven. To the crust, add sauce, toppings and cheese. Place under a broiler at high heat just until cheese is melted (approximately 3-4 minutes).
Enjoy!
*Note that toppings need to be precooked since you are only broiling for a few minutes.
“Seek food rather than avoid it.”
Be Well ~Meg @REJOOV
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