Cauliflower Cheese

Cauliflower cheese is one of the best side dishes you can make, bringing together tender cauliflower and a rich, savoury cheese sauce baked until golden and bubbling. It’s a dish that works as a hearty side for roast dinners, a standalone comfort meal, or even part of a festive spread. Simple to prepare but full of flavour, it’s a go-to for colder evenings, Sunday lunches, or whenever you want something warm and satisfying.

Ingredients:

• 1 large cauliflower, cut into florets

• 50g butter

• 2 tbsp plain flour

• 500ml whole milk

• 1 tsp Dijon mustard 

• 100g cheddar cheese, grated

• 50g Parmesan cheese, grated (or extra cheddar)

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• ½ tsp nutmeg 

• 50g panko breadcrumbs

Method:

1. Preheat the oven to 200°C (180°C fan)/400°F/Gas 6.

2. Boil or steam for 5-7 minutes until just tender. Drain well and transfer to a buttered ovenproof dish.

3. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, then gradually whisk in the milk until smooth. Keep stirring over medium heat until the sauce thickens. Add mustard, salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Stir in ¾ of the cheddar and all of the Parmesan until melted.

4. Pour the cheese sauce over the cauliflower, ensuring even coverage.

5. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and breadcrumbs over the top. Bake for 20 minutes until bubbling and golden brown.

6. Serve hot, either as a side dish or with a green salad for a lighter meal.

The Recipe’s Health Benefits:

• Cauliflower: Cauliflower is packed with fibre, vitamins, and antioxidants, making it far more than just a vehicle for cheese sauce. It contains sulforaphane, a powerful compound linked to reducing inflammation and supporting heart health. With a good amount of vitamin C, cauliflower also helps boost the immune system and supports collagen production for healthy skin. It’s also a natural source of choline, which plays a crucial role in brain function, making it a great ingredient for cognitive health.

• Cheese: Cheese provides protein, calcium, and essential fats, all of which are important for bone strength, muscle function, and overall energy levels. Aged cheeses like cheddar also contain vitamin K2, which helps with calcium absorption and may support heart health. While cheese is often considered indulgent, in moderation it provides essential nutrients that contribute to overall well-being.

• Milk: Milk is a rich source of calcium, vitamin D, and protein, all of which support bone density and muscle health. Whole milk also contains healthy fats that help with vitamin absorption and keep you feeling full. The lactose in milk provides natural energy, while its B vitamins support brain function and metabolism.