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Showing how to select and store cauliflower with bright white curds, green leaves, and adequate firmness.
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5 from 4 votes

How to Cut Cauliflower into Florets

Learn How to Cut Cauliflower into florets using these easy step-by-step directions and instructional photos.  After you properly select, store, and cut up a head of cauliflower you can use this low-carb, high-fiber vegetable in your favorite healthy recipes!
Prep Time10 minutes
Total Time10 minutes
Course: Dinner, lunch, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 cauliflower head

Instructions

  • Remove the light and dark green leaves from the base of the cauliflower.  Cut them with a chef's knife or pairing knife if they do not snap off easily.
    Trimming and removing the green leaves from a head of cauliflower.
  • Cut and discard the stem at the base.
    Cutting and discarding the stem of a head of cauliflower.
  • Chop the head into large florets or break it apart with your fingers.
    A knife showing how to cut cauliflower into florets for healthy recipes.
  • Cut the larger florets into smaller florets, if needed, for your recipe.
    Chopping up large cauliflower florets into smaller florets.
  • Trim and discard any excess stems.
    Cutting the end of the cauliflower floret before it is roasted, boiled, or sauteed.
  • You should end up with about 3 to 4 cups of cauliflower, or 1 ½ - 2 cups per pound.

Notes

Meal Prep and Storage

  • To Prep-Ahead: You can chop cauliflower several days before you cook it.
  • To Store: Keep the entire head of cauliflower loosely wrapped in the crisper drawer of the refrigerator. It can last for up to a week if stored properly. Store cauliflower florets that have been trimmed can be stored in an airtight container, or plastic bag, in the refrigerator for up to a week.
  • To Freeze: Freeze florets on a large baking sheet. Once frozen, place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 5-6 months.

Nutrition

Calories: 25kcal | Carbohydrates: 5g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 30mg | Potassium: 299mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin C: 48mg | Calcium: 22mg | Iron: 1mg