Recipe: Cheesy Cauliflower by Stella Bear Foods

Categories: Food & Nutrition
stellabear-cauliflowerRECIPE: Cheesy Cauliflower by Stella Bear Foods
Cheesy Cauliflower is perfect for when you’re craving macaroni & cheese but don’t want the guilt of preservatives or calories. It’s also a tasty way to hide veggies for children. Plus, this recipe is suitable for all dietary lifestyles! 
Prep Time 35 mins

Cook Time 15 mins

Serves 3–4
Ingredients:
  •  1 Head Cauliflower or 1 Bag Frozen Cauliflower
  •  Cashew Cheese
    •  ½ Cup Cashews
    • ¼ Cup Water
    • ½ Tsp Salt
    • ½ Tsp Turmeric
    • ¼ Tsp Smoked Paprika
Instructions:
  1. Start by soaking cashews in hot water for 30 minutes. Water should cover cashews by 1 inch
  2. Prepare the cauliflower by microwave, steaming or roasting. If roasting, pre–heat oven to 400ºF. Toss cauliflower florets in olive oil, salt and pepper. Place on a lined baking sheet and roast for 12 minutes, then stir cauliflower and rotate pan and roast for an additional 12 minutes.
  3. Drain cashews and place in blender with water, salt and spices.
  4. Blend on high until a creamy texture is acquired. Water can be added to make the cashew cheese thinner and creamier. 
  5. Once the cauliflower is cooked, combine the cauliflower and cashew cheese in a saucepan over medium heat. Warm to a serving temperature and serve.
Nutrition FactsNutritional Information:
Cauliflower and Cashews are low in cholesterol and are considered complete protein sources.  Each contains all nine essential amino acids. A serving of cauliflower contains 2 grams of protein and a serving of cashews contains 5 grams of protein. Cauliflower is low in saturated fat and is a good source of fiber, Vitamin C, Vitamin K, Vitamin B6, and Folate.  While traditional macaroni and cheese recipes are about 400 calories per cup serving, this Cheesy Cauliflower recipe is only 160 calories per cup serving!  Not only is it lower in calories, but it is also void of processed ingredients such as wheat, milk, and cheese, and is preservative free!  
This recipe can also be adapted into a family–friendly casserole with additional ingredients such as chicken breast, peas, and rice for a more hearty meal.  Try mixing up the spices in the cashew cheese to make nacho cheese for taco night!  Instead of turmeric, use chili powder, cayenne, garlic powder, and onion powder.
*Real ingredients that you would find in your own kitchen
*Ingredients are as local and organic as possible
*Food serves to nourish the body, relieve hunger and taste great
*There’s something to enjoy for every dietary lifestyle
Remember, food that is good for you should taste good, too! Be on the lookout for Stella Bear Foods and remember to share your food for thought on social media using #healthcurrents.