Cauliflower substitutes
Cauliflower substitutes — 6 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Broccoli
Same amount as the cauliflower
Similar cruciferous vegetable with comparable texture and mild flavor. Works well in most cauliflower applications.
The best substitutes for cauliflower are broccoli, cabbage, or turnips, depending on the cooking method.
- Verdict —
- Works
- Best for —
- roasting
Updated 26 Jul 2026 · no sponsored swaps
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of cauliflower | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Broccoliroasting | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 2 | Cabbagesoups | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 3 | Turnipsroasting | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 4 | Romanescoroasting | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 5 | Zucchiniraw preparations | Same amountYou'll taste it | You'll taste it |
| 6 | Potatoesmashing | Same amountYou'll taste it | You'll taste it |
Broccoli
similar taste and texture
Similar cruciferous vegetable with comparable texture and mild flavor. Works well in most cauliflower applications.
- Best for
- roasting, steaming, soups, stir-fries
Slightly more bitter than cauliflower but cooks similarly. Cut into similar-sized pieces.
Cabbage
similar taste, different texture
Mild-flavored vegetable that can be used in many cauliflower dishes, especially when cooked.
- Best for
- soups, stews, stir-fries, roasting
More watery than cauliflower, so cooking times may be shorter. Red cabbage adds color.
Turnips
different taste, similar texture
Root vegetable with mild flavor that works well as a cauliflower substitute, especially when roasted or mashed.
- Best for
- roasting, mashing, soups, purees
Slightly sweeter than cauliflower. Peel before using and cut into similar sizes.
Romanesco
similar taste and texture
Close relative of cauliflower with similar flavor and texture. Often called 'broccoli cauliflower'.
- Best for
- roasting, steaming, raw preparations, soups
More visually striking with its fractal pattern. Slightly nuttier flavor than regular cauliflower.
Zucchini
different taste and texture
Mild summer squash that can substitute for cauliflower in many dishes, especially when grated or spiralized.
- Best for
- raw preparations, stir-fries, pasta substitutes, fritters
Much more watery than cauliflower. Salt and drain before using to remove excess moisture.
Potatoes
different taste and texture
Starchy root vegetable that works well as a cauliflower substitute, especially for mashed or roasted preparations.
- Best for
- mashing, roasting, soups, purees
Much higher in carbs than cauliflower. Cook until very tender for mashing applications.
Questions
4 questionsCan I use frozen cauliflower instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen cauliflower works well as a substitute for fresh. It's already blanched, so reduce cooking time by 2-3 minutes. It may be slightly softer than fresh cauliflower.
Why does my cauliflower turn mushy when I cook it?
Cauliflower becomes mushy when overcooked. Cook it just until tender - it should still have some bite. For roasting, check after 15-20 minutes and remove when golden brown.
Can I eat cauliflower raw?
Yes, cauliflower is delicious raw! It has a mild, slightly sweet flavor and crunchy texture. Try it in salads, with dips, or as part of a crudité platter.
How do I make cauliflower rice?
Cut cauliflower into florets, then pulse in a food processor until it reaches rice-like consistency. You can also grate it with a box grater. Cook briefly in a pan with a little oil until tender.
Tips for substituting cauliflower
7 tips- Cut cauliflower into uniform pieces for even cooking - aim for 1-2 inch florets
- Don't overcook cauliflower as it becomes mushy and develops a sulfurous smell
- For roasting, toss cauliflower with oil and seasonings, then roast at 425°F for 20-25 minutes
- To make cauliflower rice, pulse raw florets in a food processor until rice-sized
- Steam cauliflower for 5-7 minutes until just tender for the best texture
- Cauliflower can be eaten raw in salads and crudité platters
- Store cauliflower in the refrigerator for up to a week, wrapped loosely in plastic