Take Part in the Cauliflower Craze With These 5 Recipes for Fall

Part of autumn's charm may be due to the crisp weather and the costumed start to the holiday season—but, let's be real, the bountiful produce is the real magic. This time of year, some of the best veggies are at their peak, especially the increasingly popular cauliflower. (Need proof of the cauli-craze? Just ask Trader Joe's.)

The versatile veggie is also a high-fiber, lower-calorie dupe for a variety of grain-based dishes, starring in recipes like cauliflower rice and cauliflower pizza crust. But there are so many other ways to make the most of the anti-inflammatory veggie while it's in season.

So, what are you waiting for—the next total solar eclipse? Embrace hygge season by staying cozy inside, and try your hand at one of these delicious dishes already!

Work these 5 fresh cauliflower recipes into your meal-planning schedule.

1. Vegan Cauliflower Gratin

While the idea of vegan gratin might seem like an oxymoron, it's not: The cauliflower is what gives this gratin its creamy glory. The recipe is also easy to whip up in the oven or in a skillet atop the stove.

2. Dragon Fruit Smoothie Bowl

This smoothie bowl is equal parts arty, tasty, and nutritious—with its secret use of cauliflower. The bright hue is from dragon fruit, which is rich in vitamin C, low in calories, and high in fiber.

3. Roasted Vegetable Enchilada Casserole

This Mexican-spiced casserole has all the trimmings you'd want from a nutritious dish, and then some. It not only includes cauliflower but also avocado, sweet potatoes, and spinach. Consider it your new Taco Tuesday go-to.

4. Sweet Potato Cauliflower Soup

There's nothing like the dropping fall temperatures to make you start craving a hot bowl of soup again. This blend uses both cauliflower and coconut milk to add creaminess while keeping everything 100 percent vegan.

5. Whole Baked Cauliflower with Mustard and Pesto

Whether you make this your main dish or a side for everyone to share, the recipe results in what should totally double as your dinner-table centerpiece. It's basically a fully edible work of still-life art.

Make your cauliflower even more autumn appropriate by pairing it with pumpkin or mixing it into a dessert.