Mock "Shrimp" Cocktail Made with Cauliflower

Amazingly delicious, our mock “shrimp” cocktail is the perfect option for a vegetarian snack, for people with shellfish allergies, or for those who need to watch their cholesterol. One cup of our “mock” shrimp cocktail has 29 calories and zero cholesterol, compared to 281 calories and 317mg of cholesterol in regular shrimp.  Not to mention the cost savings of buying a head of cauliflower versus two pounds of shrimp.

An easy, make ahead appetizer to keep with your favorite recipes.

And while you’re preparing for game day, check out our “mock wings,” Cauliflower Bites.

Preparation time: 40 minutes (includes time for water to reach a boil)
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Note: Save time on preparation by purchasing precut cauliflower in sealed bags at your grocery store.

INGREDIENTS

• 1/2 cup dry crab boil seasoning, such as Old Bay or Chesapeake (available in most grocery stores)
• 1 medium yellow onion, peeled and quartered
• 3 cloves garlic, peeled and smashed
• 3 bay leaves
• 3 quarts water
• 2 lemons, cut in half
• 1 medium to large head of cauliflower, cored and stems removed and trimmed into 2-inch florets (about 2 lbs.) 
• Cocktail sauce for serving

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Combine crab boil seasoning, onion, garlic cloves, bay leaves and water in a large pot. Squeeze juice from lemons into the mixture along with the lemon halves.
2. Bring seasoned water to boil over high heat. Lower to medium high heat and cook, with water bubbling but not roiling, for about 10 minutes. Stir occasionally to allow flavors to blend.
3. After 10 minutes, remove onion, garlic cloves, lemon peels and bay leaves with large, slotted spoon and discard.
4. Turn off the heat and add the cauliflower florets to the hot mixture. Cover with lid and let stand, or poach, for about 7-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender-crisp.
5. Drain cauliflower in strainer then spread florets on large, rimmed baking sheet to cool completely. (At this point, cauliflower can be stored in a covered container in the refrigerator for one day.)
6. Serve with your favorite cocktail sauce.

Makes about 6 cups poached. Double recipe as needed for size of gathering.

Nutritional Information

Per 1 cup or 3 oz. serving (without cocktail sauce): 29 calories; 0.6g total fat; 72mg sodium; 0.0mg cholesterol; 5.1g carbohydrate; 2.6g sugars; 2.9g fiber; 2.3g protein; 176.1mg potassium.