Cauliflower with mayonnaise

Cauliflower with mayonnaise – A refreshing delight for warm summer days

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4

If you are looking for a simple and flavorful recipe that brings a touch of freshness to your summer meals, then cauliflower with mayonnaise is the perfect choice! This dish is not only tasty but also extremely healthy, based on a star ingredient: cauliflower. Originating from the cruciferous family, cauliflower is packed with vitamins and minerals, being an excellent source of fiber and antioxidants. It can be served as an appetizer, side dish, or even as a main course, alongside a slice of fresh bread and juicy tomatoes.

Let’s begin the culinary adventure!

Necessary ingredients:
- 1 cauliflower (approximately 1 kg)
- 1 red onion (or green onion, according to preference)
- Salt and pepper, to taste

For the mayonnaise:
- 1 raw egg yolk
- 2 teaspoons of mustard (preferably Dijon, for a stronger flavor)
- 1/4 boiled potato (this will give the mayonnaise consistency)
- 200-250 ml sunflower oil
- A pinch of salt

Step 1: Preparing the cauliflower
Start by washing the cauliflower under a stream of cold water, ensuring you remove any impurities. Break it into smaller florets so that it cooks evenly. In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add a teaspoon of salt. Add the cauliflower florets and let them boil for about 5-7 minutes, until they become tender but still slightly crunchy. Don’t leave them too long, as we want to maintain a pleasant texture!

Step 2: Mashing the cauliflower
Once the cauliflower is boiled, drain it and place it in a bowl. Let it cool for a few minutes, then use a fork to gently mash it. You don’t need to make a puree; rather, keep small pieces that provide an interesting texture.

Step 3: Adding the onion
When the cauliflower has cooled, add the finely chopped onion. The red onion brings a note of sweetness, while the green onion offers a fresh aroma. Mix well, then season with salt and pepper, to taste.

Step 4: Making the mayonnaise
Homemade mayonnaise is a true art, but don’t worry, it’s simple! In a bowl, mash 1/4 of the boiled potato with a fork. Add the egg yolk and 2 teaspoons of mustard. Mix well, then start pouring in the oil, little by little, while continuously mixing. It is essential to add the oil gradually to achieve a perfect emulsion. If the mayonnaise becomes too thick, add a teaspoon of mustard to give it a smoother texture. Finally, don’t forget to season with a pinch of salt.

Step 5: Assembling the dish
After you have obtained a creamy and delicious mayonnaise, add it to the mashed cauliflower. Mix everything carefully, ensuring that each piece of cauliflower is covered with mayonnaise. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

Step 6: Serving
Your dish is ready! Serve the cauliflower with mayonnaise alongside slices of fresh bread and ripe tomatoes. It is a perfect dish for hot summer days when you want to enjoy a light and refreshing meal. You can also add a few fresh parsley leaves for an extra touch of flavor and color.

Practical tips:
- To enhance the flavor, you can also add some finely chopped olives or capers to the cauliflower mixture.
- If you prefer a lighter mayonnaise, you can replace some of the oil with Greek yogurt, to add creaminess without many calories.
- This dish can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, but it is best consumed fresh.

Nutritional benefits:
Cauliflower is rich in vitamin C, vitamin K, folic acid, and fiber, making it an excellent food for maintaining digestive health and immunity. Additionally, cauliflower is low in calories, making it ideal for diets.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use frozen cauliflower?
Yes, you can use frozen cauliflower, but make sure to completely thaw it and drain it well before mashing.

2. How can I vary this recipe?
You can add various herbs, such as dill or coriander, for an extra flavor boost. Additionally, you can replace the mayonnaise with a flavored yogurt sauce.

3. What drinks pair well with this dish?
A dry white wine or a refreshing lemonade are excellent options to complement the meal.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that’s left is to get cooking! Cauliflower with mayonnaise is a simple yet delicious recipe that will bring a smile to your loved ones' faces. Enjoy!