How to Cut Cauliflower

If you’ve ever wondered how to cut cauliflower, we’ve got you covered!

Cauliflower has been the darling of the low carb and keto world for a long time now. There are so many ways to prepare and serve it besides the old-fashioned way of steaming it. We’ll show you all the amazing ways you can cut and cook this amazing superfood!

Did You Know?

Cauliflower comes in white, purple, orange, and green (also known as broccoflower). Just like broccoli, cauliflower is high in fiber, and vitamins B and C, and low in carbs, it’s a dieter’s dream!

Choosing the Best Cauliflower

Fresh cauliflower should have a heavy head, unblemished from brown spots, and surrounded by thick green leaves. Once the leaves and stem are removed, each floret piece should be unbroken and connected to the stem. Remove leaves and rinse any dirt or debris from the head. Pat dry and place on a cutting board.

Cut off the leaves and stem.

showing How to Cut Cauliflower — Cut off the leaves and stem.

2. Cut the head in half.

cauliflower and knife to show How to Cut Cauliflower — Cut the head in half.

3. Cut into quarters.

cut cauliflower on a cutting board to show How to Cut Cauliflower — Cut into quarters.

4. Cut florets from the quarters.

cauliflower being cut with a knife to show How to Cut Cauliflower — Cut florets from the quarters.

More Ways to Cut/Prep Cauliflower

Every part of the cauliflower head can be used! Here is a brief primer of how to cut cauliflower for your favorite recipes!

STEAKS: A striking visual presentation, cauliflower steaks are the perfect side dish! Keep cauliflower whole and cut off the stem (freeze and save for future recipes). Cut the cauliflower in half vertically. Then cut 1 ½” inch “steaks” from each side. Brush with oil and seasoning of your choice. Pan-fry, bake, or grill until golden brown and serve hot.

WINGS: Vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike will love these meatless wings! Break off equally sized pieces of cauliflower florets and toss in this Easy BBQ Sauce Recipe or some tangy Buffalo Sauce. Roast until the wings are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside and serve on a tray with our Homemade Ranch Dressing.

RICED: This is quickly becoming the most popular method to prepare cauliflower for its versatility. Cut a head of cauliflower into 4 large, equal pieces and scrape across a box grater creating rice kernels. Scoop “rice” into a cheesecloth and squeeze excess fluid out. Season as desired and either roast in the oven or sauté in a pan until browned and crispy. Make this Asian-inspired Cauliflower Fried Rice recipe.

MASHED: Now you can have your mashed potatoes without the carb overload! Cut cauliflower into equally large pieces and steam in a pot with water (or chicken broth). Place steamed pieces in a food processor (or use a potato masher) with butter, minced garlic, and cream. Pulse until the mixture is thickened like mashed potatoes. Serve with Broiled Salmon Fillets.

Storing Fresh Cauliflower

Refrigerator: Store fresh cauliflower whole, with the greens still on wrapped in a paper towel to absorb moisture, and then in a plastic bag in the refrigerator for no more than 4 days.

Freezing Cauliflower: Break up into florets and blanch cauliflower in water for 3 minutes. Drain, place in an ice-water bath immediately to stop the cooking process. Store in a zippered plastic bag with the date labeled on the outside. It will be good for up to 6 months for ultimate freshness.