Cauliflower with tomato sauce

Delicious cauliflower recipe with tomato sauce – a simple, quick, and flavorful dish

Total time: 30 minutes
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Who doesn’t love a quick and delicious meal? This cauliflower recipe with tomato sauce is perfect for those days when you want to enjoy something healthy but don’t have much time. Cauliflower, a versatile and nutritious ingredient, proves its worth in this recipe, bringing not only a wonderful taste but also a range of health benefits.

Cauliflower is rich in vitamin C, vitamin K, fiber, and antioxidants, making this recipe an excellent choice for a light yet nourishing meal. This vegetable has been appreciated over time for its versatility, being used in both savory and sweet dishes.

Ingredients:
- 1 medium cauliflower
- 1 liter of water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 green onion (or white onion)
- 1 green garlic (or dried garlic)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste diluted in 100 ml water
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon dried dill
- 1 teaspoon tarragon in vinegar
- Olive oil for sautéing (optional)

Preparation:

1. Preparing the cauliflower: Start by cleaning the cauliflower. Break it into small florets and wash them well under cold running water. It is important to use a fresh cauliflower with compact florets and no spots.

2. Boiling the cauliflower: In a large pot, bring 1 liter of water to a boil and add 1 teaspoon of salt. When the water starts to boil, add the cauliflower florets. Let them boil for 10-15 minutes, until they become tender but not too soft. If you boil them too much, they will release an unpleasant sulfur smell.

3. Draining the cauliflower: Once boiled, remove the cauliflower florets with a slotted spoon and let them drain in a colander. It is essential not to leave excess water, as it will dilute the flavors of the sauce.

4. Sautéing the onion and garlic: In a wok or a deep pan, add a little olive oil (if using) and heat it on low. Add the chopped green onion and garlic. Let them sauté for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become translucent and fragrant.

5. Adding the cauliflower: Next, add the cauliflower florets to the wok. Sprinkle salt, pepper, rosemary, dill, and tarragon in vinegar. Mix the ingredients well and let them cook together for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.

6. Preparing the tomato sauce: Dilute the 2 tablespoons of tomato paste in the 100 ml of water. Add this mixture to the wok, stirring gently to coat the cauliflower evenly. Let it simmer for 5 minutes, so the sauce thickens slightly and combines with the vegetable flavors.

7. Serving: Done! The cauliflower with tomato sauce is now ready to be served. You can serve it warm alongside rice, pasta, or even as a side dish for a main course. A delicious idea would be to sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds or grated parmesan on top for added flavor.

Variations and suggestions:
- Instead of green onion and garlic, you can use white onion and dried garlic, and for added flavor, add turmeric or curry powder. These spices not only enhance the dish's appearance but also provide a unique flavor.
- If you like vegetables, you can also add finely chopped carrots or bell peppers while sautéing the onion.
- This recipe can easily be adapted for vegans, as it is already free from animal products.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use frozen cauliflower? Yes, you can use frozen cauliflower, but make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the recipe.
2. What other side dishes can I use? This cauliflower pairs wonderfully with basmati rice or quinoa. You can also add a fresh green salad on the side.
3. How long does it keep? The dish keeps well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, and the taste gets even better as it cools.

Nutritional benefits: Cauliflower is a low-calorie vegetable and rich in nutrients, with only 25 calories per 100 grams. It is an excellent source of vitamins C and K, helping to strengthen the immune system and maintain bone health. Additionally, cauliflower is an excellent source of fiber, contributing to healthy digestion.

This cauliflower recipe with tomato sauce is not only easy to prepare but also a healthy choice for the whole family. Try it and enjoy a meal full of flavor and vitamins! Enjoy your meal!