I came across a recipe the other day via AliLuvs.com, (many of you may be aware of her Healthy Cauliflower recipe already); it is so good (like she says). She got the recipe from Sophie Uliano who I believe was on Ali’s show, Home & Family (based in L.A.); you can check out Sophie’s site HERE. I’ve tweaked the ingredients a little just to make it even a bit more healthier (although seriously, either of their recipes are pretty healthy already). I’ve just noted things like organic, and switched up a few items (eg., switching out almonds for sprouted walnuts) to make it even more healthy and added a few nutritional fun facts. Check it out below!
Lemony Fresh Herbed Cauliflower Rice Salad
Cauliflower is considered to be one of the most healthiest foods on the planet. With it’s anti-inflammatory properties and an abundant supply of a phytochemical known as Indole-3-Carbinol which inactivates harmful estrogens and upregulates liver detoxification, it also contains something called sulforaphane that increases Phase II Liver detoxification activity even more and protects DNA from damage. In other words, it’s good for you and it helps fight cancer. The cilantro also will help in the aid of liver detoxification and the healthy fats will keep you satiated. This is a really delicious recipe, I personally love the freshness, and the subtle hint of mint. I think you’re really going to like it!
You will need
1 head of organic cauliflower* (riced)
1/4 cup + 1 tablespoon avocado oil*
1 cup diced yellow onion*
1 cup finely chopped flat-leaf parsley*
1/2 cup finely chopped fresh mint leaves*
1 cup finely chopped fresh cilantro leaves*
1 tsp lemon zest (should be organic for zest)
1/2 teaspoon sea salt (we use Redmonds) plus more to taste
1 cup chopped dried cherries or cranberries (but if you’re wanting to keep your blood sugar lower – which is always recommended, then swap out for perhaps fresh blueberries* or cranberries*
1 cup chopped sprouted/activated nuts (like walnuts* or macadamia nuts*)
1 cup shelled, steamed Edamame* beans
*Although most of these items are NOT listed as one of The Dirty Dozen, if the price is right, I’d definitely go for organic. I recommend one always eat lemon zest/peels and edamame organic however). Edamame from the soy family are known to be highly contaminated with glyphosate if not organic. A study has found that Glyphosate as a risk factor for Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma*. Conventional lemons are sprayed with a variety of pesticides on the peel and some can be very difficult to wash off. If you’re fighting any type of chronic or autoimmune illness, or just want to keep optimal health, avoiding glyphosate and pesticides is highly recommended.
To make
If you can’t find sprouted/activated nuts, you can sprout them beforehand. By soaking the nuts overnight first, you are breaking down the phytic acid making it so they can be absorbed properly. Nuts have high amounts of enzyme inhibitors which is why they can be hard to digest. Soaking nuts can neutralize the enzymes allowing for proper digestion. If you soak them, be sure to soak in filtered water overnight. Drain and dry in the oven on low heat for a couple hours. Of course you can eat nuts without sprouting them, but sprouting them just makes them that more easily to digest – especially if you’re having any digestive issues already.
Rice the cauliflower in a blender or food processor. Sauté the diced onions on low heat (to not oxidize the oil) in a bit of avocado oil or ghee. Once the onions are soft and translucent, then add the riced cauliflower. Sauté for another 2 minutes.
Remove from pan and transfer the cauliflower mixture into a salad bowl. Mix in the other ingredients, then drizzle with a 1/4 cup of avocado oil, and toss. Top with the zest of the lemon and serve!
