Riced Cauliflower with Quinoa and Pomegranate

- Suitable for diets:
- Dairy-Free
- Gluten Free
- High-Fiber
- Low-Carb
- Mediterranean
- Plant-Based
Why Diabetes Friendly?
- Low Glycemic Index: Both cauliflower and quinoa are low on the glycemic index, helping to manage blood sugar levels.
- High Fiber Content: The dish is high in fiber, aiding in blood sugar regulation and promoting satiety, which can help with weight management—a crucial aspect of diabetes management.
- Healthy Fats: The use of extra virgin olive oil provides monounsaturated fats, beneficial for heart health and potentially improving insulin sensitivity.
- Antioxidant-Rich Ingredients: Pomegranate seeds and almonds add antioxidants that can reduce inflammation and improve cardiovascular health.
Ingredients
- cauliflower (riced ) 4 cups
- quinoa (cooked) 1 cup
- olive oil 2 tsp
- pomegranate (seeds) ¼ cup
- parsley (chopped) ¼ cup
- garlic (minced) 1 clove
- green onion (white and light green part only, minced) 2 stalks
- lemon juice 3 tbsp
- olive oil 3 tbsp
- salt ¼ tsp
- pepper (ground) 1/8 tsp
- almonds (roasted, chopped) ¼ cup
Cooking Tips
- Cauliflower Rice Consistency: To avoid overprocessing the cauliflower into a mush, pulse in short bursts in the food processor until you achieve a rice-like texture.
- Quinoa Cooking: Ensure the quinoa is rinsed thoroughly before cooking to remove the saponin coating, which can cause a bitter taste.
- Flavour Enhancement: Allow the dish to sit for a few minutes before serving to let the flavours meld together, enhancing the overall taste.
- Almond Alternatives: If nut allergies are a concern, consider substituting with roasted pumpkin seeds for a nut-free crunch.
Instructions
- Heat a large frying pan or wok with the 2 tsp of olive oil, and add the riced cauliflower, toss and cook until softened but still has a crunch to it, about 6 minutes. Turn heat off. Add the cooked quinoa to the pan with the cauliflower, toss.4 cups cauliflower, 2 tsp olive oil, 1 cup quinoa
- In a large mixing bowl, mix together the pomegranate seeds, parsley, garlic, green onion, lemon juice, olive oil, salt and pepper.¼ cup pomegranate, ¼ cup parsley, 1 clove garlic, 2 stalks green onion, 3 tbsp lemon juice, 3 tbsp olive oil, ¼ tsp salt, 1/8 tsp pepper
- Gently toss the cauliflower-quinoa mixture into the bowl with the pomegranate seed mixture, fold to mix.
- Add the chopped roasted almond.¼ cup almonds
FAQ
Can this dish be made in advance?
Yes, it can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated. For the best taste, bring it to room temperature or gently warm it before serving.Is there a substitute for pomegranate seeds if they're out of season?
Dried cranberries or cherries can be used as substitutes, though they will alter the flavour profile slightly. Adjust the quantity to taste, as dried fruits can be sweeter.Can I use frozen cauliflower rice?
Absolutely, frozen cauliflower rice is a convenient alternative. Just be sure to adjust cooking times as it may cook quicker than fresh.What are some variations of this dish?
For added protein, consider including chickpeas or lentils. You can also experiment with different herbs like mint or cilantro for a flavour twist.
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