We discovered this yummy vegetable in our travels near the Amalfi Coast in Italy, also widely available in European markets. Romanesco, found in Italy, is my new favorite vegetable, it’s funky and creepy looking and the kids love it too! You can also get this at the Ottawa Farmers Market, but if you can’t find it, you can replace it with cauliflower.

This recipe is from Mario Batali’s cookbook “Simple Family Meals” I gift from my Brother. Thanks Pete

1 large or 2 medium heads Romanesco (you can use regular cauliflower if you can’t find Romanesco)
1 cup brine-cured green olives, pitted
3 tablespoons capers, rinsed and drained
1/4 cup finely chopped Italian parsley
grated zest and juice of 2 lemons (my kids love doing this part) 

1/3 cup plus 1/4 cup olive oil, divided
1 tablespoon hot red pepper flakes
Kosher or sea salt
10 cloves garlic

1. Have your kids fill a large bowl with ice water. Cut the Romanesco into small florets, submerge them in the ice water, and set aside to soak for 10 minutes.

2. Meanwhile, combine the olives, capers, parsley, and lemon zest on a chopping board, and chop together until minced.

3. In a small pot, heat the 1/3 cup olive oil and red pepper flakes over medium-low heat until hot. Remove from heat and stir in the olive mixture, 1 teaspoon salt, and the lemon juice. Set aside.

4. Bring a large pot of water to a boil, add 2 tablespoons salt. Drain the Romanesco from its ice bath and drop it into the boiling water, adding the garlic cloves. Cook until the florets are just tender, about 5 minutes. Drain well, separating out the garlic cloves. Chop and add the cooked garlic cloves to the olive-caper dressing, of leave them whole if you don't have time.

5. Place the dressing in a large bowl, add the Romanesco and toss well. Taste and add more salt, red pepper flakes, and/or lemon juice as needed. Serve hot or at room temperature, drizzled with the remaining olive oil. (If serving at room temperature, adjust the seasoning again before drizzling with oil.)

Makes up to 8 servings as a side dish