CAULIFLOWER DISHES by Top NYC Chefs

Cauliflower is not only delicious, but incredibly versatile and healthy. It is one of several vegetables in the species Brassica oleracea, in the family Brassicaceae that also includes broccoli, collard greens, kale and brussels sprouts. It is a good source of Vitamin C and also contains B vitamins and vitamin K. While white is the most common color of cauliflower, there are also varieties that are green, orange and purple. Here's a roundup of some of the creative dishes that are being prepared by some of the finest chefs in New York City.

Cauliflower & Brie Au Gratin - Chef Brian Christman of Del Frisco's Double Eagle Steak House New York - A vegetarian twist on a classic steak house favorite, this dish is one of Del Frisco's most popular sides. Both creamy and nutty with melted triple crème brie, heavy cream, parsley and freshly cracked white pepper, this dish is both hearty and (semi) healthy. Price: $16.50

Cauliflower Tempura - Chef Christian Petroni of Fortina Restaurant - Inspired by decadence, Fortina's whole brined tempura cauliflower takes vegetable-driven dishes to a whole new level; deep fried and topped with homemade meat sauce, mozzarella, parmesan and pecorino. (Available at all three Fortina locations - Stamford, Rye, Armonk). Price: $23.00

Ancient Grains Risotto with Cauliflower Crème - Chef Nickolas Martinez of Foragers Table - Made with aromatic spices, organic cauliflower crème and local, ancient grains from Upstate New York's Greenmarket Co., this dish embodies the trend towards diets high in grains and vegetables and low in animal protein. Price: $16.00

Colonel Tso's Cauliflower - Chef Jessi Singh of Babu Ji - Offering an elevated spin on an Asian classic, this Indo-Chinese style cauliflower is tossed in a homemade tomato-chili sauce with sesame seeds, onion seeds and chives resulting in a vegan dish that is bursting with flavor in every bite. Price: $14.00

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Del Frisco's Double Eagle Steak House