Can You Freeze Cauliflower?

A fresh bounty of produce from the farmer’s market is great, but when it starts to go bad, it’s time to make a decision on using it or losing it. When it comes to delicious vegetables like cauliflower, you might ask yourself: can you freeze cauliflower? We consulted Nadia Minniti, chef-instructor of Online Culinary Arts & Food Operations at the Institute of Culinary Education for the best advice.

Can You Freeze Cauliflower?

The short answer is yes, you can absolutely freeze cauliflower to help extend the life of this versatile vegetable. However, it’s not as simple as tossing the head or chopped florets in the freezer. In fact, freezing raw cauliflower is a recipe for disaster unless you are making cauliflower rice.

Can You Freeze Cauliflower Raw?

You can but it's not always the best idea. “We might be tempted to freeze cauliflower raw, but it is really not recommended, because it is high in water and freezing it changes its structure, turning it mushy once thawed,” says Minniti.

What To Know Before Freezing Cauliflower

Consider how you plan to use it.

“The way you freeze cauliflower depends on the type of product you need,” Minniti says. “If you need florets, you blanch it first. If you need cauliflower rice, you leave it raw.”

How To Freeze Cauliflower Florets

Minniti says the best way to freeze cauliflower is by quickly blanching it first.  Here's what she recommends:

1. Cut the cauliflower into equal size florets.
2. Place in boiling water for one to two minutes, depending on the size of the florets.
3. Remove the florets from the water immediately using a slotted spoon.
4. Plunge the cauliflower into ice water to stop the cooking process.  
5. Drain the cauliflower, lay it on a paper towel lined tray or surface, and pat dry.  
6. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, spread the florets onto the baking sheet, cover with plastic wrap, and put it in the freezer until the cauliflower is solid frozen.  
7. Remove from the freezer and place it in a freezer-safe bag. Be sure to seal the bag tightly and label and date.  

How Long Can Cauliflower Be Frozen?

Up to 6 months in the freezer but it's best if consumed within 3 months from the date it was frozen, advises Minniti.

How To Freeze Cauliflower Rice

If you are trying to freeze cauliflower rice, Minniti says there is no need to blanch the cauliflower.

1. Put the washed and dried florets into a food processor and pulse until you reach the desired size (rice or couscous).
2. Bag it in a freezer-safe bag, being sure to label and date the bag, and freeze.  

How Long Can Cauliflower Rice Be Frozen?

Within 2 months from the day it was frozen because it is raw, advises Minniti.

How To Defrost Frozen Cauliflower

• In microwave: It's possible to defrost frozen cauliflower in a microwave for a couple of minutes. 
• On stovetop: Since not everybody likes to use microwaves, Minniti suggests the stovetop. "The alternative is to thaw it in a pan on the stovetop, adding a little water to the pan. If time is not of the essence, one can thaw cauliflower overnight in the refrigerator, or by putting it in a bowl of cold water."

 How To Use Thawed Cauliflower

Good news: you can use thawed cauliflower just like fresh cauliflower.

“Just keep in mind that it is already halfway cooked, so the cooking times for the recipe are going to be shorter, which, if you are in a rush, is an added bonus,” Minniti says. "If frozen correctly, the taste and texture of the cauliflower shouldn’t change, especially because it has already blanched it.  Simply add it to a recipe and continue the cooking process."