Cauliflower is a mild cruciferous vegetable that people have eaten for at least 2,000 years. Cruciferous vegetables include cabbages, broccoli, kale, turnips, Brussels sprouts, plus many more vegetables that are plentiful from our local farms. Cauliflower “heads” can be white, purple or dark yellow in color. The florets are the part that most people eat however, the stem and leaves are edible too. Cruciferous vegetables contain antioxidants that protect body cells from damage caused by exposure to free radicals, which are considered a significant factor in aging and heart disease, diabetes and cancer. When consumed, you are taking in a combination of vitamins A, B, C and K as well as calcium and other minerals. There is also plenty of fiber that helps to keep your digestive system healthy.

Nutritional yeast is a healthy vegan alternative to Parmesan cheese, as it holds a nutty flavor that lends itself well to everything from pasta to popcorn. It is an inactive yeast grown primarily for nutritional purposes. It is high in protein and rich in B vitamins, including B-12, that are important for normal and healthy body functions. In this recipe it works to coat cauliflower, which is then roasted and transformed into a decadent yet healthy snack or side dish.