Cauliflower Buffalo Bites!

With trying to get a good intake of vegetables, healthy fats, and eliminating carbohydrates at night, I’ve been on a kick of cauliflower and coconut oil. Both of these actually go extremely well together and the more I search for recipes, the more creative I get with making dinners and side dishes. I know that we have had it instilled into our minds to always eat green vegetables; however there are also many benefits to a white vegetable, such as cauliflower.

According to Dr. Mercola, “cauliflower has anti-inflammatory properties, may boost heart health, and also contains 77 percent of the recommended daily value of vitamin C. It’s also a good source of vitamin K, protein, thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, magnesium, phosphorus, fiber, vitamin B6, folate, pantothenic acid, potassium, and manganese.” This article has the full benefits listed.

In addition to cauliflower, I’m now using coconut oil in my diet as a source of healthy fats. Instead of using butter or oil in my recipes, I simply replace the amount of butter or oil for coconut oil in a 1:1 ratio. On a mission to eliminate the amount of carbohydrates that I’m consuming at night, cauliflower has been a great substitute or pasta, potatoes, and even pizza dough! Here are some of my favorite cauliflower recipes:

Garlic Mashed Cauliflower – I’ve eliminated the traditional mashed potatoes and am in love with making cauliflower mash. When I first made these, I couldn’t even tell the difference! The coconut oil and garlic in this dish make the cauliflower taste absolutely delicious. As an added tip, to make the mashed cauliflower a little creamier, add a touch of half and half.

Cauliflower Mac and Cheese – I’m definitely a pasta lover, but once I get going on mac and cheese, there is no stopping me. This recipe is a guilt-free way to enjoy a great home-style dish. To cut back on calories and fat, I’m a fan of using fat-free cheese. I also replaced butter for coconut oil, which mixed well with the almond milk to give a creamy consistency.

Cauliflower Pizza – Yes, I said pizza! When I first made this crust, I was so surprised how great it tasted. This is a great way for kids to also get a serving of vegetables, without the hassle. If you’re trying to stay away from grains, this is the perfect recipe for you. Feel free to put your favorite toppings and even make a completely white pizza with mozzarella spinach, and homemade Alfredo alternative from the recipe below.

Creamy Cauliflower Sauce – Going back to my pasta obsession, this creamy cauliflower sauce is a great replacement for Alfredo. Instead of piling on the pasta, I love to serve this with vegetables and add in some chicken or shrimp to get a serving of protein.

Buffalo Cauliflower Bites – This is a great vegetarian option for boneless buffalo chicken wings. Lightly spraying the cauliflower with Kelapo Coconut Oil cooking spray gives a healthier alternative to deep fried buffalo wings and the they still taste amazing. Try serving these with Lani’s Vegan Ranch Dip and you’ll be all set!

I hope these recipes help with ideas on how to incorporate vegetables and health fats into your diet, while not feeling as much guilt.

Do you have a favorite cauliflower recipe?

-Kayla