Cauliflower stands in for rice in this springtime-sunshiny risotto. The secret ingredient, pumpkin purée, makes this dish creamy and rich, while adding beta carotene (vitamin A) and fibre.
Tip: Play around with the spices to make this recipe your own. Try dried thyme, rosemary, or sage instead of saffron.
Cauliflower Risotto with Saffron and Lemon
Ingredients
- 1 head cauliflower, greens and core removed, roughly chopped
- 2 Tbsp (30 mL) extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 1/2 cups (350 mL) unsweetened plain almond milk or milk of choice
- 1 cup (250 mL) pumpkin purÈe
- 1/4 tsp (1 mL) salt
- 1/4 tsp (1 mL) saffron
- 1/4 tsp (1 mL) ground black pepper
- Zest of 1/2 lemon
- 1/2 cup (125 mL) finely grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 Tbsp (15 mL) lemon juice
Nutrition
Per serving:
- calories210
- protein10g
- fat11g
- saturated fat3g
- trans fat0g
- carbohydrates21g
- sugars8g
- fibre8g
- sodium442mg
Directions
01
In food processor, working in batches, pulse cauliflower until finely chopped, about the size of rice. Transfer to large bowl. Repeat with remaining cauliflower. Set aside.
02
In large, high-sided skillet or large pot, heat oil over medium. Add onion and garlic. Sauteu0301 for 8 to 10 minutes, until onion begins to brown slightly. Stir in reserved cauliflower u201crice,u201d milk, pumpkin, salt, saffron, pepper, and lemon zest. Increase heat to medium-high, until mixture is bubbling; reduce heat to medium-low and continue to cook, uncovered, stirring often for 8 to 12 minutes, or until cauliflower is soft enough for your liking (you donu2019t want it mushy). Stir in Parmesan and lemon juice. Serve immediately.
Allison Day, RHN, is a nutritionist, blogger, and cookbook author. Check out her cookbooks, Whole Bowls and Purely Pumpkin (Skyhorse Publishing, 2016).
