Day 80: Flavorful Florets

The name cauliflower comes from the Latin words caulis, meaning "stalk," and floris, meaning "flower". Cauliflower originated more than 2,000 years ago in gardens of Asia Minor and the Mediterranean.

Cauliflower plants are usually started in a greenhouse from seeds. After 35 days, the young plants are transplanted to the field. Cauliflower plants require rich fertile soil, good moisture, and cool temperatures to grow.

After being transplanted to the field, the cauliflower plant grows for another 80-110 days. As the plant grows, a flower bud forms in the center of the plant. It is very important to protect the developing cauliflower from the sun while it grows. Workers fold the large outer leaves of the plant over the head of cauliflower (creating a tent with the leaves) to protect it from sunlight. This prevents the cauliflower from turning yellow.

When buying cauliflower, select one that is white or creamy white in color, firm, and heavy. Cauliflower may be stored for up to one week in a plastic bag in the refrigerator. Keep it dry. Don't wash it until you are ready to eat it, and remove any brownish colored bruises.

Cauliflower is an awesome vegetable! One-half cup equals one serving of vegetables and contains just 15 calories. Cauliflower is an antioxidant Superfood because it is an excellent source of vitamin C and a top source of antioxidants called glucosinolates, which helps keep your body healthy. Cauliflower also contains potassium, folate and fiber. Like other vegetables, cauliflower is low in calories and sodium and contains no fat or cholesterol.

Cauliflower is delicious raw or cooked. This makes it versatile! In the supermarket you can find whole heads of cauliflower, as well as bags of fresh pre-cut florets and frozen florets. (Source: Dole) Here are some fun and easy ways to enjoy cauliflower:

• Dip raw cauliflower florets into low-fat dip/salad dressing, hummus or salsa.
• Add chopped raw cauliflower to a mixed green salad or a pasta salad.
• Steam cauliflower florets and serve as a side dish with meat, fish, poultry and even pasta.
• Create a creamy side dish by mashing cooked cauliflower with low fat milk. Many people think mashed cauliflower tastes just like mashed potatoes!
• Add cauliflower to your favorite stir-fry.
• Add chopped cauliflower to vegetable lasagna or an omelet.
• Enjoy hot, delicious cream of cauliflower soup on a chilly day.

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Day 80. Dollar 80. Pound 80. Praise God from whom all Cauli's flow. Praise God, all gardeners here below. Praise God above, for strong, green leaves. Praise God for vegetables received. Amen!