Romanesco (Roman Cauliflower) Nutrition Facts
Romanesco is a striking fractal-patterned vegetable with chartreuse-green spiraling florets. A cross between broccoli and cauliflower, it has a milder, nuttier flavor than either and the most stunning appearance of any vegetable.
Nutrition Facts
Per 100g serving
Health Benefits
- ✓Excellent vitamin C source (64% DV)
- ✓Contains glucosinolates for cancer prevention
- ✓Good folate for cell division
- ✓High choline for brain health
- ✓Lower odor when cooking than broccoli
Best For
Storage
Store romanesco unwashed in a perforated plastic bag in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Like cauliflower, it's sensitive to moisture - don't wash until ready to use. Brown spots indicate aging.
Serving Sizes
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does romanesco have such a strange fractal pattern?
Romanesco displays a natural Fibonacci spiral - each floret is a miniature version of the whole head, creating a mathematical fractal pattern. This natural algorithm creates the mesmerizing spiraling cones. It's one of the clearest examples of fractals in nature.
Does romanesco taste like broccoli or cauliflower?
Romanesco has a flavor between broccoli and cauliflower but milder and nuttier than either. It lacks the sulfurous bite of broccoli and bland-ness of cauliflower. The texture is slightly firmer than cauliflower. It's often described as the most delicious of the three.
How do you cook romanesco without losing its color?
Avoid boiling, which turns it gray-green. Quick steam (3-4 minutes), roast at high heat, or blanch briefly and ice bath immediately. Adding a bit of lemon juice or vinegar to cooking water helps retain the bright green color. Don't overcook.
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