HEALTHY MAC 'N' CHEESE

My healthy mac 'n cheese is the healthiest and most delicious way to satisfy your comfort food cravings without the regret!

Ingredients:

Vegan, low-carb, gluten-free

Servings: 4

• 1 very large head of cauliflower
• 1 tsp avocado oil (or oil of your choice)
• 1/4 tsp pink salt
• Black pepper
• 1/2 cup cashews, soaked in hot water
• 3 tbsp nutritional yeast (found in grocery stores & natural food stores)
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/8 tsp turmeric
• 1 tsp pink salt
• 1/3 cup hot water (+ more as needed)

For the topping:

• Paprika
• Chives
• Black pepper
• Fresh herbs
• Additional toppings (see notes)

Instructions:

1. Soak the cashews in boiling water for at least 30 minutes while you prepare the cauliflower.
2. Cut the cauliflower into equal-sized pieces.
3. Bring about 1/4 inch of water to a boil in a large, shallow pot. Add 1/4 tsp pink salt and the cauliflower florets.
4. Reduce heat to medium-high, cover, and cook for about 6 to 8 minutes, stirring every 2 minutes, until the cauliflower is tender but not falling apart.
5. Remove all the cauliflower except for one cup using a slotted spoon. Continue cooking the remaining cauliflower for about 3 minutes, or until it is very soft and breaks apart easily. Add more water if needed.
6. Place the cup of cauliflower into a blender or food processor with the soaked and drained cashews, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, mustard, garlic powder, turmeric, and sea salt. Add 1/3 cup of hot water. Blend until smooth, adding more hot water if necessary. You want the final consistency to be pourable, but still somewhat thick.
7. In a pot, quickly heat the cauliflower florets. Add the sauce and oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix gently.
8. Serve garnished with a little paprika and fresh herbs, if desired.
9. Serve hot, but it can be prepared in advance and reheated easily.

Notes: For a complete meal, add a serving of protein: chicken strips, organic tofu or tempeh cubes, etc., and green peas for extra color.

Bon appétit! Health is a way of life.