Cauliflower Pizza Sticks

I used to hate cauliflower.

Actually, hate is probably too strong a word.  I didn't care enough about cauliflower to hate it.  It was more like cauliflower was just not appealing to me.  I tried it once and it had no taste and since then it just wasn't a desirable vegetable.

Then I tasted it roasted.

Boy was that a game changer.  Who knew cauliflower could be so, well, tasty.  All browned up and crispy like that it was almost addictive.  Next thing you know, cauliflower was going into everything.  I made soups. I made stews.  I even made my fair share of brownies, cakes and cookies. (By the way, every single one those linked up words leads to a different recipe.  Check them out!)

And now I give you pizza sticks.

The cauliflower pizza crust thing has been going around for a while now.  I absolutely love the idea of it, and was super excited when I heard of it first.

These Pizza Sticks are my take on the whole trend.  The crust, which is, of course, made from cauliflower, is very thin, making them a great snack or light appetizer.  And they're also super kid friendly, what with the whole pizza concept and all.  Serve them with or without cheese for a great introduction to the cauliflower craziness!

Cauliflower Pizza Sticks

• 200 g cauliflower
• 1/2 cup egg whites
• 1/2 cup rolled oats
• salt and pepper
• 1/4 cup tomato sauce
• 1/2 cup shredded cheese (this is optional, but recommended for a more pizza-like taste)

Preheat oven to 425F.  Place cauliflower in a blender or food processor and blend until "riced" (broken up into small rice-like pieces).  Place cauliflower in a large bowl with egg whites and oats and mix together.  Season with salt and pepper.  Place mixture on a parchment paper lined baking sheet and spread into a thin layer.  Press another piece of parchment paper on top.  Bake for 15-20 minutes.  If any bubble form in crust, just press them down.  Remove top layer of parchment paper top pizza crust with tomato sauce and cheese (if using).  You can also add other toppings if desired.  Return to oven to bake for another 5 minutes, or until cheese has melted.  Cut into sticks and serve warm if possible.  Pizza serves 2-4 people as a snack or appetizer.

I'm looking for more fun cauliflower experiments to try.  What's your favorite funky recipe?

Revisited Recipe of the Day:

Peach, Arugula, and Ricotta Pizza (who else is dreaming of summer?)