Simple Steamed Cauliflower with Basil and Olive Oil

I love cauliflower, it has been one of my favorites for awhile now. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it is generally fairly inexpensive too. I like to pick up several when Aldi runs a sale on them for around $1 a head or so. I love the versatility of cauliflower too. It can be used as a substitute in quite a few different recipes (even used in place of mashed potatoes). One of my favorite ways to make cauliflower though is to simply steam it. It only takes a few minutes and it is an absolutely delicious addition to a meal. I think basil pairs really well with cauliflower. It adds a dash of color and brightens up the taste of this dish considerably. And the white pepper gives it a little extra kick. And, well, extra virgin olive oil makes just about everything taste better.

Ingredients:

1 Head of Cauliflower
1/2 teaspoon dried Basil
1/2 teaspoon white ground pepper
1-2 teaspoons EVOO (Extra Virgin Olive Oil)
Water

Directions:

Rinse off cauliflower. Cut off the stalk at the head of the cauliflower. You can easily break off the cauliflower into smaller pieces this way. Add about 1-2 inches of water to a pot and bring to a boil. Place your cauliflower in a steamer basket and add to the pot. If you do not have a steamer basket, a metal colander will also work in a pinch. Cover the pot and let steam on medium-high heat for about 5-10 minutes, depending on the size of the cauliflower and depending on the desired tenderness. Remove from pot and toss in the basil, white ground pepper and EVOO. Serve this simple steamed cauliflower with basil and enjoy!