Deirdres' Purple Cauliflower and Avocado Salad

I was down in San Diego teaching for two weeks and didn't cook very much so I haven't posted lately. While I was there, my good friend Deirdre made a salad that I just loved and as soon as I got home, I made it and I am sharing it with you today.  She's a great cook - once a professional chef - and makes food that is super healthy. She's also an acupuncturist and teaches about Chinese food therapy.  So, you know this salad has got to be good for you too! 

It's a simple salad that combines wonderful textures and colors. Deirdre used a head of Purple Cauliflower and it's beautiful!  She added in cut up pieces of Avocado and Red Onion and dressed it with some lemon and salt. The avocado makes a smooth dressing that contrasts so well with the crunchy Cauliflower. My son's comment was that it was weirdly delicious!  This recipe is definitely a keeper.

Deirdres' Purple Cauliflower and Avocado Salad

1 head Purple Cauliflower, leaves and stem removed, cut into small pieces

3 ripe Haas Avocados, cut into small pieces

1/2 cup chopped Red Onion

Juice of 2 small of 1 1/2 Large lemons

1 teaspoon Salt

pinch of Cayenne Pepper

Combine Lemon Juice, salt and chopped Onions.  Let sit for about 5 minutes.  Add in the Purple Cauliflower and toss to coat. Then mix in Avocado.  Serve immediately.

Five Element Analysis

Cauliflower is usually considered a Metal Food because it is white. But Purple Cauliflower that has white below adds in a little more of the Water Element.  The Haas Avocados have a very dark outer shell, which is also considered Watery, but since the flesh is green, it is fruit that is also considered part of the Wood Element.  The Lemon Juice adds even more Wood.  The Onions contribute the Metal Element and the pinch of Cayenne adds a hint of the Fire Element. In order to create balance, be sure to serve this salad with another food that's Fiery. the Earth Element is missing, so the easiest way to create balance is to make sure you have a sweet dessert too!