Too Much of a Good Thing?

Nope. No such thing. More is always better!

I’m part of a generation that grew up with cauliflower as a beige and flavorless winter side dish. Now, with the discovery of many creative ways to cook it, I can never get enough. One of its old vices – its innocuous blandness – has proven a virtue as it adapts to so many seasonings and preparations.

Recently, myriad fad uses for the cloud-like vegetable have come into our lives. Cauliflower rice is one of the latest in the "please don't serve me any carbohydrates" crazes. It follows on the heels of mashed cauliflower. "You'll never know it's not mashed potatoes!" Um... not true. I know. I'm not saying these aren't good, I am simply saying they aren't rice or potatoes. And carob isn't chocolate, either.

I love cauliflower recipes that celebrate cauliflower! The other night we came across an Alton Brown recipe for baked pasta, cauliflower, and cheese. It was so good, we made it twice in a week.

Other favorites include the Whole Roasted Cauliflower, Roasted Romanesco Cauliflower, and - in two week's time -  I will be posting a recipe for Coliflor con Vinagreta Templada de Jamón. And, of course, today's recipe for Cauliflower Saffron Soup.

This is one of the smoothest and creamiest non-cream soups you can make, and the color is just gorgeous. It can easily be made vegetarian or vegan and, with some bread and a salad, it serves as a nice meal. Made a day or two ahead of time, it is a convenient and flavorful first course.

Recently, when Mark and I were guests of Carolyne and Andrew in Palm Desert, I made dinner one night for them and their friends Shannon, Leonora, Tom, and Colette. It was a wonderful and convivial evening, and this soup is what I chose to start the meal. Everyone enjoyed it.

Caroline writes two blogs – Perfectly Provence, and Ginger and Nutmeg. I recommend that you check them both out, especially if you are heading to Provence! She often shares my recipes when I pair them with Provençal wines and recently posted my recipe for Cauliflower Saffron Soup after our visit.

Click HERE to find out how to make it.

~ David

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