Are you looking for a light dish that keeps you heading towards your resolution weight loss goals, but still packs in the flavor? Try my cauliflower and broccoli "rice" tabbouleh now! It's just what you're looking for.

Tabbouleh is traditionally made with a grain of some sort; quinoa, couscous, and rice are all options when making this flavorful healthy Mediterranean side dish. In efforts to lighten up 2015, I have chosen to replace the grain in this recipe with broccoli and cauliflower "rice", which adds both more nutrients and flavor, but still gives the Tabbouleh a traditional texture. I have also added some creamy avocado to enhance the texture of the dish, and give it a little added luxurious-ness. I love how bright and fresh this dish is, and I hope you do too! Enjoy it as a salad mixed with some fresh greens, or a side dish with baked chicken or salmon, or even just as it is for a light lunch! Enjoy!

Broccoli & Cauliflower Tabbouleh

Time: 20 mins Serves: 4-6

1 head of cauliflower, trimmed into florets

2 heads of broccoli, trimmed into florets

1 large cucumber, peeled & seeded, diced

1/4 of a red onion, minced

1 pint of cherry tomatoes, halved

1/2 cup of feta cheese, crumbled

1 large avocado, diced

1 cup of fresh parsley, minced

1 cup of fresh mint, minced

3/4 cup of olive oil (you want to use a really high quality oil here)

1 lemon, zested and juiced

salt & pepper

sunflower seeds (optional)



Begin by putting the cauliflower florets into a food processor, and pulsing a few times until the cauliflower is small and resembles rice or couscous. Put the cauliflower rice into a large bowl. Repeat this step with the broccoli.

Once all of the broccoli and cauliflower are "riced", begin adding the rest of your veggies: tomatoes, onion, cucumber, avocado, herbs, lemon zest, feta.

Combine the lemon juice and olive oil together in a small bowl with a good sprinkling of salt and pepper.

Toss the vinaigrette into the salad, mixing gently until all of the ingredients are comblined.

Taste for additional salt and pepper; add if necessary.

Top each serving with a sprinkling of sunflower seeds if you desire.

Enjoy!