Sicilian-Style Cauliflower Casserole
Eating cauliflower rice and cauliflower crust pizza has taught me that the mild flavor of the humble cauliflower can be a perfect replacement for starchy foods.
Roasting the cauliflower al forno makes it sweeter and juicier, and gives it a mildly nutty flavor. Garlic, briny capers, kalamata olives, a generous helping of fresh sage, and tangy lemon zest add the quintessential essence of Mediterranean cuisine. A pinch of crushed red pepper flakes gives it a welcome touch of heat, but you can leave them out, or, if you like things spicy, go ahead and add a little more. All of the ingredients are placed in a casserole dish and topped with mozzarella, Parmesan, and breadcrumbs before going into the oven. You’ll know it’s done when the cheese is melted and speckled golden brown. Just before serving, sprinkle the top with chopped fresh parsley, which adds color and balances the richness of the cheese.
Total Time: 43 min. Prep Time: 15 min. Cooking Time: 28 min. Yield: 4 servings, 1 cup each
21 Day Fix portions:
0.5Y, 0.5G, 0.5B, 0.5tsp
Ingredients: Nonstick cooking spray 2 tsp. olive oil 1 medium cauliflower, chopped (about 1½ pounds) Sea salt (or Himalayan salt) and ground black pepper (to taste; optional) 1 Tbsp. capers, chopped 10 kalamata olives, chopped 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped ¼ tsp. crushed red pepper flakes (optional) 3 Tbsp. chopped fresh sage ½ tsp. finely chopped lemon peel (lemon zest) ¼ cup whole wheat bread crumbs 2 oz. shredded mozzarella cheese 2 oz. shredded Parmesan cheese 2 Tbsp. chopped flat-leaf parsley (for garnish; optional) Preparation: 1. Heat oven to 350° F. 2. Lightly coat a 2-quart baking dish with spray. Set aside. 3. Heat oil in large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. 4. Add cauliflower; cook, stirring occasionally, for 5 to 8 minutes, or until cauliflower begins to soften. 5. Add capers, olives, garlic, crushed red pepper (if desired), sage, and lemon peel; mix well. 6. Place cauliflower mixture in baking dish. Top with bread crumbs, mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bread crumbs are golden brown. 7. Garnish with parsley if desired; serve immediately.
