In the past few years, cauliflower has beaten out grains in just about every way possible. There’s cauliflower rice, cauliflower pasta, cauliflower mash. The starchy vegetable is low in calories but has a texture very similar to its grain competitor. And when it’s done right, you can barely tell the difference. Cauliflower was once just an often overlooked cruciferous vegetable, but now it’s a staple in everyone’s kitchen. We’re here to tell you there’s a new vegetable that’s going to be giving cauliflower a run for its money! And it’s pretty similar to it, too: broccoli.
The Most Popular Veggie of 2019
Broccoli was found to be the most popular vegetable in 2019, despite how many people claim they hate it. In addition to its versatile cooking methods and delicious flavor, broccoli is overflowing with nutritional benefits.
Broccoli is an excellent source of Vitamin C. Vitamin C is an essential part of collagen, which helps build bones and protect our bodies from damaging free radicals. Broccoli is an ideal source of folate, which helps lower the risk of heart disease and stroke. It’s full of fiber, a necessary part of our diet that keeps you fuller for longer and keeps your blood sugar levels stable. Broccoli also is naturally anti-inflammatory, which can reduce the risk of chronic disease. Yeah, all that is packed in a little green tree-like vegetable.
Cauliflower was known for its versatility and the way it similarly replicates grains. But, broccoli can do pretty much the same. I love roasting broccoli in the oven with my favorite seasonings for a crispy and delicious side dish. It’s also great to add to pasta and stir-fries for a boost of nutrition. When combined with cheese, it makes for a creamy and comforting mix that’s amazing in soup or a casserole. And similar to cauliflower crust, broccoli is making its pizza debut. Trader Joe’s just started offering its very first broccoli & kale pizza crust, and we’ve heard great things about it. If you’re a fan of greens, the pizza crust is definitely up your alley.
Although you can’t find nearly as many broccoli products in the grocery store as you can cauliflower, I have a feeling that will change soon. Both cauliflower and broccoli are incredibly healthy and a great vegetable to add to your diet. Broccoli has more nutritional value, as it contains more of the necessary vitamins our bodies need to function. I don’t see the cauliflower trend going anywhere in the near future. I just have a feeling broccoli products will soon start being placed next to it. And if you’re indecisive like me- I suggest grabbing both, just for good measure.
