When it comes to adding a pop of color to your plate, few ingredients are as effective as vibrant purple cauliflower. This stunning vegetable has been gaining popularity in recent years, and for good reason – its deep purple hue adds a touch of drama to any dish, while its slightly sweet flavor and versatile texture make it a joy to cook with.
Whether you’re looking for a show-stopping side dish or a creative way to add some excitement to your meals, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll be sharing 18 vibrant purple cauliflower recipes that are perfect for every occasion. From comforting pasta dishes to flavorful international-inspired meals, there’s something on this list for everyone.
Stay tuned for our top picks and get ready to elevate your cooking game with the power of purple cauliflower!
Roasted Purple Cauliflower with Garlic and Parmesan
Roasted Purple Cauliflower with Garlic and Parmesan: A flavorful and vibrant side dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of purple cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Spread the cauliflower mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
5. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the roasted cauliflower and return to the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until melted and bubbly.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 22-28 minutes
Purple Cauliflower and Chickpea Curry
Elevate your curry game with this vibrant and aromatic Purple Cauliflower and Chickpea Curry recipe. The deep purple hue of the cauliflower adds a pop of color to this nutritious and delicious dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of purple cauliflower, broken into florets
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can coconut milk (14 oz)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
5. Add cauliflower, chickpeas, and coconut milk. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the cauliflower is tender.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Grilled Purple Cauliflower Steaks with Herb Drizzle
Elevate your cauliflower game with this simple and flavorful recipe that showcases the natural sweetness of purple cauliflower.
Ingredients:
– 1 large head of purple cauliflower
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 1 tsp honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem. Cut into 1-inch thick slices (steaks).
3. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add the cauliflower steaks and toss to coat evenly.
4. Grill the cauliflower for 5-7 minutes per side, or until tender and slightly charred.
5. Meanwhile, combine parsley, dill, lemon juice, and honey in a small bowl. Stir until well combined.
6. Brush the herb drizzle over the grilled cauliflower steaks during the last minute of cooking.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Purple Cauliflower Soup with Crispy Bacon
This vibrant soup is a flavorful celebration of spring’s arrival, combining the natural sweetness of purple cauliflower with the savory delight of crispy bacon. Perfect for a chilly evening or as a starter for a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of purple cauliflower, broken into florets
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, diced
– 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups of chicken broth
– 1/2 cup of heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss cauliflower florets with 1 tablespoon of butter, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large pot, cook diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Add remaining butter to the pot, then sauté chopped onion until softened.
5. Add roasted cauliflower, chicken broth, and heavy cream to the pot. Bring to a simmer and puree with an immersion blender or regular blender.
6. Stir in cooked bacon and season to taste.
7. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Purple Cauliflower Rice Stir-Fry with Vegetables
A vibrant and nutritious twist on traditional stir-fries, this recipe combines the earthy sweetness of purple cauliflower rice with a colorful medley of vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of purple cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 cup of snow peas, trimmed
– 1 teaspoon of soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Pulse the purple cauliflower in a food processor until it resembles rice.
3. Heat the oil in the skillet, then add the onion and garlic. Cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the mixed bell peppers and snow peas. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
5. Stir in the cooked cauliflower “rice” and soy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Purple Cauliflower and Kale Salad with Lemon Tahini Dressing
This vibrant salad combines the sweetness of purple cauliflower with the earthiness of kale, all tied together with a tangy and creamy lemon tahini dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of purple cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 cups of curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1/4 cup of freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup of tahini
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss cauliflower florets with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
2. In a large bowl, massage chopped kale with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice and a pinch of salt until wilted.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together remaining lemon juice, tahini, garlic, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
4. Combine roasted cauliflower, massaged kale, and dressing in the bowl. Toss to combine.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Baked Purple Cauliflower Mac and Cheese
Elevate your macaroni and cheese game with the addition of vibrant purple cauliflower! This comforting dish combines creamy pasta, roasted cauliflower, and a crispy breadcrumb topping for a delightful twist on a classic.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of purple cauliflower, broken into florets
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup whole milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions; set aside.
3. Toss cauliflower with paprika, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
4. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
5. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly; bring to a simmer. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted.
6. Combine cooked macaroni, roasted cauliflower, and cheesy sauce in a baking dish.
7. Top with panko breadcrumbs and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Purple Cauliflower Pizza Crust with Fresh Toppings
Elevate your pizza game with this unique and flavorful cauliflower crust, infused with the natural sweetness of purple cauliflower. This recipe is perfect for a healthy twist on a classic favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of purple cauliflower
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup almond flour
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh toppings of your choice (e.g., cherry tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, basil leaves)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the purple cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem. Cut into florets.
3. Pulse the cauliflower in a food processor until it resembles rice.
4. In a bowl, combine the processed cauliflower, Parmesan cheese, almond flour, egg, and olive oil. Mix well.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Shape into a circle or rectangle.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and set.
7. Top with your desired toppings and return to the oven for an additional 3-5 minutes.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Spicy Purple Cauliflower Tacos with Avocado Crema
Elevate your taco game with this vibrant and flavorful recipe featuring purple cauliflower, a spicy kick, and creamy avocado crema. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of purple cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more to taste)
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Avocado crema (see below for recipe)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss cauliflower with olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
2. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
3. Assemble tacos by placing roasted cauliflower onto warmed tortillas, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
Avocado Crema:
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/2 lime, juiced
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– Salt, to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and mix until smooth. Use as a topping for your tacos!
Cooking time: 25-30 minutes
Purple Cauliflower Mash with Roasted Garlic
Elevate your side dish game with this vibrant and flavorful recipe that combines the natural sweetness of purple cauliflower with the deep, nutty taste of roasted garlic. Perfect for accompanying a variety of main courses.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of purple cauliflower
– 2 cloves of garlic
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken or vegetable broth (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cut the purple cauliflower into florets and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and toss to coat.
4. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until tender and lightly caramelized.
5. While the cauliflower is roasting, slice the garlic cloves in half lengthwise and place on a piece of aluminum foil.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and fold the foil to create a little package.
7. Roast in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the garlic is tender and mashed.
8. Remove the cauliflower from the oven and let it cool slightly.
9. Add the roasted garlic, broth (if using), and mash with a fork until smooth.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Purple Cauliflower and Lentil Stew
A hearty and nutritious stew that combines the sweet flavor of purple cauliflower with the earthy taste of lentils, all wrapped up in a rich and aromatic broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of purple cauliflower, broken into florets
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the lentils, cumin, smoked paprika, and diced tomatoes; stir to combine.
4. Pour in the vegetable broth; bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
5. Add the purple cauliflower; cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-55 minutes
Pickled Purple Cauliflower with Turmeric and Mustard Seeds
This vibrant pickling recipe adds a pop of color and flavor to your meals, perfect for topping salads, sandwiches, or serving as a side dish. With the warmth of turmeric and the tanginess of mustard seeds, this cauliflower pickle is sure to become a favorite!
Ingredients:
– 1 head of purple cauliflower, broken into florets
– 1 cup (250 ml) white vinegar
– 1/2 cup (125 ml) water
– 2 tbsp (30 g) granulated sugar
– 1 tsp ground turmeric
– 1/4 tsp yellow mustard seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the cauliflower florets, vinegar, water, sugar, turmeric, and mustard seeds.
2. Let it sit at room temperature for 24 hours, shaking occasionally.
3. After 24 hours, refrigerate the mixture until chilled (at least 30 minutes).
4. Strain the pickles through a fine-mesh sieve to remove excess liquid.
Cooking Time:
– None! Just let it sit and pickle!
Purple Cauliflower and Broccoli Gratin
Elevate your comfort food game with this vibrant, flavorful gratin that combines the natural sweetness of purple cauliflower and broccoli with creamy cheese. This recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner party or a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of purple cauliflower, broken into florets
– 3 cups of broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 1/2 cup of grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup of heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss cauliflower and broccoli with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Transfer the vegetable mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Sprinkle cheddar and Parmesan cheese over the top.
5. Pour in heavy cream and toss gently to combine.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the vegetables are tender and the top is golden brown.
7. Garnish with thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Purple Cauliflower Hummus with Pita Chips
Transform your snack time with this vibrant and flavorful Purple Cauliflower Hummus, served with crispy pita chips.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of purple cauliflower, broken into florets
– 1/4 cup chickpeas
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 bag pita chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss cauliflower florets with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine roasted cauliflower, chickpeas, garlic, tahini, lemon juice, and remaining olive oil. Blend until smooth.
3. Transfer the hummus to a serving bowl. Serve with pita chips.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (roasting cauliflower) + 5-7 minutes (blending hummus)
Enjoy your delicious and healthy Purple Cauliflower Hummus with Pita Chips!
Purple Cauliflower and Sweet Potato Hash
This vibrant side dish is a stunning addition to any meal. Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes, while the purple cauliflower adds a pop of color and earthy flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 large purple cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley or thyme) for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss cauliflower and sweet potatoes with olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and caramelized.
4. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
5. Serve warm, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Purple Cauliflower Alfredo Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy and vibrant Purple Cauliflower Alfredo Pasta recipe, featuring the stunning color of purple cauliflower. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz fettuccine pasta
– 1 head of purple cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add purple cauliflower and cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
4. In a separate saucepan, combine heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth.
5. Combine cooked pasta, cauliflower mixture, and creamy sauce. Toss to coat.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Purple Cauliflower and Quinoa Buddha Bowl
A vibrant and nutritious bowl filled with roasted purple cauliflower, quinoa, and a variety of flavors and textures.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of purple cauliflower, broken into florets
– 1 cup of cooked quinoa
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon of honey
– 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions and toasted almonds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss the cauliflower florets with olive oil, soy sauce, honey, garlic powder, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast the cauliflower in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
4. Cook the quinoa according to package instructions.
5. To assemble the bowls, place the cooked quinoa at the base, followed by the roasted cauliflower, and garnish with chopped scallions and toasted almonds if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Purple Cauliflower Fritters with Yogurt Dip
Transform humble cauliflower into a vibrant purple masterpiece, served with a refreshing yogurt dip.
Ingredients:
• 1 head of purple cauliflower, broken into florets
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Pulse cauliflower florets in a food processor until coarsely chopped.
3. In a bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the dry mixture to the processor and pulse until well combined.
5. Using your hands, shape the mixture into small patties (about 12).
6. Place patties on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each.
7. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
8. Meanwhile, mix together yogurt, lemon juice, and parsley in a bowl.
9. Serve warm fritters with chilled yogurt dip.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your culinary game with these 18 vibrant purple cauliflower recipes! From classic roasted dishes to creative twists like pizza crust and tacos, there’s something for every occasion. Indulge in creamy soups, crunchy salads, and savory curries, or try your hand at making a show-stopping mac and cheese or alfredo pasta. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary newbie, these recipes are sure to inspire your inner foodie and leave everyone wanting more!
Leave a Reply