Get ready to elevate your cooking game with the stunning beauty of purple cauliflower! This majestic veggie is not only a feast for the eyes, but it also packs a punch when it comes to flavor and nutrition. Whether you’re looking for a unique twist on classic dishes or something entirely new to impress your friends and family, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 vibrant purple cauliflower recipes that are perfect for every occasion – from hearty meals to quick snacks and even special treats. From roasted and grilled options to soups, salads, and more, there’s something for everyone on this list. So, without further ado, let’s dive into the world of purple cauliflower and discover its many culinary delights!
Roasted Purple Cauliflower with Garlic and Parmesan
Roasted Purple Cauliflower with Garlic and Parmesan: A flavorful and visually stunning side dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of purple cauliflower, broken into florets
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with the olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper until they’re evenly coated.
3. Spread the cauliflower mixture in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender and caramelized.
5. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
6. Return to the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 22-28 minutes
Purple Cauliflower and Chickpea Curry
This vibrant curry combines the natural sweetness of purple cauliflower with the nutty flavor of chickpeas, all wrapped up in a creamy and aromatic sauce. Perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
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
– 1 can coconut milk (14 oz)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add chickpeas and cauliflower. Stir to combine.
5. Pour in coconut milk and season with salt and pepper.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 15-20 minutes or until the cauliflower is tender.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Creamy Purple Cauliflower Soup with Crispy Bacon
Transform humble cauliflower into a rich and creamy soup, elevated by the smoky sweetness of crispy bacon.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of purple cauliflower, broken into florets
– 6 slices of bacon
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss cauliflower florets with 1 tablespoon butter, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
3. Cook bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, cook chopped onion in remaining butter until softened.
5. Add roasted cauliflower, broth, and heavy cream to the skillet. Bring to a simmer.
6. Blend soup with an immersion blender or transfer to a blender and puree.
7. Stir in cooked bacon and season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Purple Cauliflower Rice with Fresh Herbs
Elevate your meals with this vibrant and flavorful side dish that combines the natural sweetness of purple cauliflower with the brightness of fresh herbs. This recipe is perfect for vegetarians, vegans, and anyone looking to add some color to their plate.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of purple cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the purple cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem. Cut into small florets.
3. In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, parsley, cilantro, salt, and pepper until well combined.
4. Spread the mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and lightly caramelized.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Grilled Purple Cauliflower Steaks with Chimichurri
Elevate your summer meals with this vibrant and flavorful recipe. Grilled purple cauliflower steaks are paired with a tangy and herby chimichurri sauce for a deliciously easy side dish or main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 large head of purple cauliflower
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh oregano, chopped
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Cut the cauliflower into thick slabs (about 1-2 inches).
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, parsley, oregano, and lemon juice.
4. Brush both sides of the cauliflower steaks with the chimichurri sauce.
5. Grill the cauliflower for 4-5 minutes per side, or until tender and slightly charred.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Purple Cauliflower and Kale Salad with Lemon Tahini Dressing
This vibrant salad combines the earthy sweetness of purple cauliflower with the nutty flavor of kale, all tied together with a creamy lemon tahini dressing. Perfect for a healthy and refreshing side dish or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of purple cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tsp honey (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss cauliflower with 2 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large bowl, massage kale with 1 tsp lemon juice and 1/4 cup olive oil until wilted.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together garlic, tahini, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
5. Combine roasted cauliflower, massaged kale, and dressing in a serving bowl. Toss to combine.
6. Drizzle with additional honey, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Purple Cauliflower Mash with Brown Butter
Elevate your side dish game with this vibrant and flavorful recipe featuring purple cauliflower, caramelized brown butter, and a hint of nutmeg.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of purple cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup brown butter (see note)
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
– 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss cauliflower florets with 1 tablespoon butter, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and lightly caramelized.
3. In a small saucepan, melt the remaining 1 tablespoon butter over medium heat. Cook, stirring occasionally, until butter turns golden brown and has a nutty aroma (about 5-7 minutes).
4. Add brown butter to roasted cauliflower and toss until coated. Stir in garlic, nutmeg, and any accumulated juices.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pickled Purple Cauliflower with Turmeric and Mustard Seeds
Transform humble cauliflower into a vibrant, tangy condiment perfect for snacking or elevating your favorite dishes. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of purple cauliflower with the warm, earthy flavors of turmeric and mustard seeds.
Ingredients:
– 1 head purple cauliflower, broken into florets
– 1 cup (250ml) white vinegar
– 1/2 cup (125ml) water
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cauliflower florets and salt. Let it sit for 30 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
2. Drain and rinse the cauliflower under cold running water.
3. In a saucepan, combine vinegar, water, sugar, turmeric, and mustard seeds. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally.
4. Pack the drained cauliflower into a clean glass jar or container. Pour the hot pickling liquid over the cauliflower, leaving about 1 inch (2.5cm) headspace.
5. Seal the jar and let it cool to room temperature. Store in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None
Purple Cauliflower Tacos with Avocado Crema
Elevate your taco game with the vibrant flavor of purple cauliflower and creamy avocado crema.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of purple cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Avocado crema (recipe below)
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, crumbled queso fresco
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, onion, jalapeño, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos with roasted cauliflower, avocado crema, and desired toppings.
Avocado Crema Recipe:
– 3 ripe avocados
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup heavy cream or Greek yogurt
Mash avocados in a bowl. Mix in lime juice, salt, and heavy cream or yogurt until smooth.
Purple Cauliflower Pizza Crust with Goat Cheese
Transform cauliflower into a flavorful pizza crust with the added richness of goat cheese. This recipe is perfect for those looking for a low-carb alternative to traditional pizza dough.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of purple cauliflower
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem. Cut into florets and pulse in a food processor until it resembles rice.
3. Transfer the “riced” cauliflower to a microwave-safe bowl, add 1/4 cup water, cover with a paper towel, and microwave for 4-5 minutes or until soft.
4. Allow the cauliflower to cool slightly, then transfer to a cheesecloth or a clean dish towel. Squeeze as much liquid as possible from the cauliflower.
5. In a bowl, combine the drained cauliflower, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
6. Press the mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper into a circular shape, about 1/4 inch thick.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until lightly browned.
8. Top with goat cheese and your favorite toppings. Return to the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Cooking Time: 17-23 minutes
Purple Cauliflower and Broccoli Gratin
This vibrant and flavorful gratin is a perfect accompaniment to your favorite main courses. With the natural sweetness of purple cauliflower and broccoli, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of purple cauliflower, broken into florets
– 3 cups of broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour
– 1 1/2 cups of whole milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add cauliflower and broccoli; cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and milk until smooth. Pour mixture over vegetables in the skillet; stir to combine.
4. Transfer skillet contents to a baking dish. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Purple Cauliflower Stir-Fry with Peanuts
Discover the vibrant flavor of this unique stir-fry, featuring purple cauliflower, spicy kick, and crunchy peanuts. This recipe is a perfect blend of sweet, savory, and spicy notes.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of purple cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup roasted peanuts
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; stir-fry until onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add cauliflower and cook, stirring occasionally, until tender, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Stir in soy sauce, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
5. Add peanuts and stir-fry for an additional minute.
6. Garnish with green onions, if desired.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Purple Cauliflower Hummus with Pita Chips
Purple Cauliflower Hummus with Pita Chips Recipe
Experience the unique flavor of purple cauliflower in this creamy and delicious hummus recipe, perfect for dipping pita chips or veggies.
- 1 head of purple cauliflower
- 1/4 cup of lemon juice
- 1/2 cup of tahini
- 1/2 cup of olive oil
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Pita chips for serving (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
- Rinse the purple cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem. Cut into florets.
- In a blender or food processor, combine the cauliflower florets, lemon juice, tahini, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
- Transfer the hummus to a serving bowl. Serve with pita chips and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (prep time included)
Purple Cauliflower and Lentil Stew
This vibrant stew is a flavorful celebration of the season’s best ingredients. With its deep purple hue, it’s sure to be a showstopper at any gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of purple cauliflower, broken into florets
– 1 cup of brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 can (14.5 oz) of diced tomatoes
– 4 cups of vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the cumin and smoked paprika; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the lentils, cauliflower, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer until the lentils are tender, about 30-40 minutes.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Purple Cauliflower Fritters with Yogurt Dip
Experience the sweet and savory flavor of purple cauliflower in a crispy fritter form, paired with a refreshing yogurt dip. This recipe is perfect for a healthy snack or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of purple cauliflower
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Yogurt Dip (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Rinse and dry the purple cauliflower. Grate it using a box grater or food processor.
3. In a bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
4. Add the grated cauliflower, egg, and mix until a dough forms.
5. Using wet hands, shape into 8-10 fritters. Fry in hot oil (350°F/180°C) for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Drain excess oil on paper towels and serve warm with Yogurt Dip.
Yogurt Dip:
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon honey
Mix all ingredients together in a bowl. Serve chilled alongside the fritters.
Purple Cauliflower and Quinoa Buddha Bowl
This recipe celebrates the unique flavor and color of purple cauliflower, paired with nutty quinoa and a medley of roasted vegetables. The result is a nutritious and visually stunning dish perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of purple cauliflower, broken into florets
– 1 cup of cooked quinoa
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss the cauliflower florets with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
4. In a separate pan, sauté the red onion and garlic over medium heat until softened.
5. Add the cherry tomatoes to the pan and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
6. Cook the quinoa according to package instructions.
7. Assemble the Buddha bowl by placing cooked quinoa at the base, topping with roasted cauliflower, sautéed vegetables, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Purple Cauliflower Alfredo Pasta
Transform your pasta game with this vibrant Purple Cauliflower Alfredo Pasta recipe! The unique combination of roasted purple cauliflower, garlic, and creamy sauce will elevate your dinner table.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz. pasta of choice
– 1 head of purple cauliflower
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss purple cauliflower with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
4. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 5 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted. Combine cooked pasta, roasted cauliflower, and sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Purple Cauliflower and Sweet Potato Hash
This vibrant side dish is a stunning combination of roasted purple cauliflower, sweet potatoes, and crispy onions. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 large head of purple cauliflower
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons maple syrup
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup crispy onions (store-bought or homemade)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss the cauliflower with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. In a separate bowl, toss the sweet potatoes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 30-35 minutes or until tender.
4. In a large skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the crispy onions and cook for 2-3 minutes or until caramelized.
5. To assemble the hash, place the roasted sweet potatoes on a serving dish, followed by the roasted cauliflower and topped with caramelized onions. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Purple Cauliflower Buffalo Bites with Blue Cheese Dressing
Elevate your snack game with these addictive bites, featuring the unique flavor of purple cauliflower. This recipe is a twist on classic buffalo wings, but with a healthier and more vibrant spin.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of purple cauliflower
– 1/2 cup Frank’s RedHot sauce
– 1/4 cup butter
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup blue cheese dressing (store-bought or homemade)
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem. Cut into bite-sized florets.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together hot sauce and butter until smooth. Add garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Toss the cauliflower florets in the buffalo mixture until well coated.
5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spread the cauliflower bites evenly.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until tender and crispy.
7. Serve hot with blue cheese dressing for dipping.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Purple Cauliflower and Mushroom Risotto
This recipe combines the earthy flavors of sautéed mushrooms with the vibrant sweetness of purple cauliflower, all wrapped up in a creamy risotto.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 oz mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 1 head purple cauliflower, broken into florets
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
5. Add the Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
6. Add the white wine (if using) and stir until absorbed.
7. Warm the vegetable broth in a separate pot.
8. Add 1/4 cup of the warmed broth to the rice mixture and stir until absorbed. Repeat this process, adding the broth in 1/4 cup increments, stirring constantly, until the rice is cooked and creamy (about 20-25 minutes).
9. Stir in the butter and season with salt and pepper.
10. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and purple cauliflower florets.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your cooking game with these 20 vibrant purple cauliflower recipes! From savory dishes like Roasted Purple Cauliflower with Garlic and Parmesan, to creamy soups like Creamy Purple Cauliflower Soup with Crispy Bacon, and even sweet treats like Pickled Purple Cauliflower with Turmeric and Mustard Seeds, there’s something for every occasion. Whether you’re a foodie or just looking for new inspiration, this collection of recipes is sure to delight your taste buds.
