I am not really a sweets person to begin with, so I am craving something savory.  But I wanted an interesting and attractive vegetable, and what strikes those notes better than Romanesco!

 

Romanesco broccoli, also known as Roman cauliflower, Broccolo Romanesco, Romanesque cauliflower or simply Romanesco, is an edible flower bud of the species Brassica oleracea.

Romanesco has a striking appearance because its form is a natural approximation of a fractal. When compared to a traditional cauliflower, its texture as a vegetable is far more crunchy, and its flavor is not as assertive, being delicate and nutty.

It has been grown in Italy since the 16th century.  Of course it has! All the best things come from Italy!

 

Nutritionally, romanesco is rich in vitamin C, vitamin K, dietary fiber, and carotenoids