Roasted Cauliflower with Turmeric

This Roasted Cauliflower with Turmeric is a perfect symphony of brain-boosting ingredients and delightful textures. If you're on the hunt for brain healthy recipes or easy vegan snacks, you’ve just hit the jackpot. This dish not only satisfies your taste buds, making it a family favourite but also contributes to cognitive health which definitely makes it a winner in my book.

Infused with the golden touch of turmeric, a celebrated anti-inflammatory food, every bite offers a burst of antioxidants and essential nutrients. As a gluten-free recipe, it caters to diverse dietary needs while serving as a nutrient-dense snack or a scrumptious side dish. Turmeric’s active compound, curcumin, is renowned for supporting brain health, paired with the crisp, fresh, and vitamin-rich cauliflower, creating a powerhouse of nutrition and flavour.

Perfect for those following keto, paleo, or general healthy eating patterns, this roasted cauliflower is a testament that food for the brain can be both delicious and nutritious. Whether you're exploring brain-boosting foods, love crispy roasted vegetables, or are simply in need of quick and healthy meal prep ideas, this recipe has got you covered.

Ingredients:

•  1 large cauliflower head, cut into florets
•  2 tablespoons of olive oil
•  2 teaspoons of turmeric powder
•  1 teaspoon of ground cumin (optional for added flavour)
•  Salt and pepper to taste
•  Fresh coriander leaves for garnish (optional)

Method:

•  Pre heat your oven to 200°C (400°F, Gas Mark 6).
•  Wash and cut the cauliflower head into small florets. Pat them dry to ensure they roast nicely.
•  In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 2 teaspoons of turmeric powder, and 1 teaspoon of ground cumin. Mix them well.
•  Add the cauliflower florets to the bowl and toss them until they are well-coated with the oil and spices mixture.
•  Sprinkle salt and pepper over the cauliflower to taste and toss again to ensure an even coat.
•  Spread the seasoned cauliflower florets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they are in a single layer.
•  Roast in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, until they are golden brown and crispy. You can give them a stir halfway through the roasting time to ensure even cooking.
•  Optionally, sprinkle fresh, chopped coriander leaves over the top for added flavour and colour before serving.

Nutritional Benefits:

Rich in Antioxidants:

• Turmeric contains curcumin, a compound with strong antioxidant properties that helps in neutralizing free radicals and boosting the body's own antioxidant enzymes. Source

Anti-Inflammatory Effects:

•  Curcumin in turmeric has powerful anti-inflammatory effects, reducing inflammation at the molecular level. Source

Vitamins and Minerals:

• Cauliflower is rich in vitamins and minerals, offering a good source of Vitamin C, Vitamin K, and other essential nutrients for overall health. Source

Brain Health:

 Cognitive Health Improvement:

• Consuming turmeric can lead to improvements in cognitive function due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Source

 Mood Regulation:

• Some studies suggest curcumin has the potential to boost serotonin and dopamine levels, which can help improve mood and combat depressive disorders. Source

Cardiovascular Health:

Heart Health:

• The anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric can help reduce the risk of chronic conditions, including cardiovascular diseases. Source

  Blood Pressure Regulation: 

• Cauliflower is a good source of potassium, which can help regulate blood pressure levels. Source

Digestive Health:

 Fiber Content:

•  Cauliflower provides a significant amount of fiber, which promotes gut health and aids in digestion. Source