Weight Watchers (WW) Friendly Cauliflower-Spinach Taco Shells
Introduction
Welcome to a delicious and innovative take on taco night with our Weight Watchers (WW) Friendly Cauliflower-Spinach Taco Shells. These taco shells offer a nutritious, low-point alternative to traditional taco shells, combining the health benefits of cauliflower and spinach with the richness of Parmesan cheese. Perfect for anyone on a WW plan, these taco shells are not only low in points but also packed with flavor and texture. This comprehensive recipe provides detailed instructions, measurements, nutritional information, and WW SmartPoints, ensuring you can enjoy a satisfying and healthy taco experience.
Ingredients
For the Taco Shells:
Cauliflower: 1 medium head, riced (about 4 cups). Provides the base for the taco shells, offering a low-carb and fiber-rich alternative to flour or corn tortillas.
Fresh Spinach: 2 cups, chopped finely. Adds a burst of nutrients and color to the taco shells.
Large Eggs: 2. Acts as a binding agent to hold the cauliflower and spinach together.
Grated Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup. Contributes a rich, cheesy flavor and helps to crisp up the taco shells.
Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon. Adds a subtle garlic flavor to the taco shells.
Instructions
Prepare the Cauliflower:
Begin by removing the leaves and stem from the cauliflower. Cut it into florets and place them in a food processor. Pulse until the cauliflower resembles the size and texture of rice grains.
Transfer the riced cauliflower to a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. Squeeze out as much moisture as possible. This step is crucial to ensure the taco shells hold their shape and crisp up nicely.
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and to make cleanup easier.
Prepare the Spinach:
Wash the fresh spinach thoroughly. Pat it dry with a paper towel or use a salad spinner to remove excess moisture.
Finely chop the spinach and set it aside.
Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the riced cauliflower, chopped spinach, 2 large eggs, and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese.
Add 1 teaspoon of garlic powder and mix everything until well combined. The mixture should be thick and slightly sticky.
Shape the Taco Shells:
Divide the mixture into 8-10 equal portions. Using your hands or a spoon, shape each portion into a small, flat oval or circle on the prepared baking sheet.
To create a taco shell shape, you can use a round cookie cutter or press the mixture into a taco shell mold if available. Alternatively, you can shape them by hand, creating a slight curve in the center to mimic the taco shell shape.
Bake the Taco Shells:
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges of the taco shells are golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning.
Cool and Set:
Remove the taco shells from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. This cooling time helps them firm up and become crispier.
Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooled, carefully remove the taco shells from the parchment paper. Fill with your favorite taco ingredients, such as seasoned meat, beans, cheese, and fresh veggies.
Store Leftovers:
Store any leftover taco shells in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes to restore crispness if needed.
Nutritional Information
Per Taco Shell (Based on 10 servings):
Calories: 55
Total Fat: 3g
Saturated Fat: 1.5g
Cholesterol: 50mg
Sodium: 150mg
Total Carbohydrates: 4g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Net Carbohydrates: 2g
Protein: 4g
WW Points
Based on the Weight Watchers (WW) SmartPoints system, each Cauliflower-Spinach Taco Shell is approximately 1 SmartPoint. This low point value makes it an excellent option for those following WW, allowing you to enjoy a tasty taco experience while staying within your points budget.
Useful Information
Cauliflower: A versatile vegetable that serves as a low-carb substitute for grains and is rich in fiber and essential nutrients.
Spinach: Adds a boost of vitamins and minerals, including iron and vitamins A and C, to the taco shells.
Parmesan Cheese: Provides a rich, savory flavor and helps to bind the mixture together while keeping the point value low.
Eggs: Act as a natural binder, ensuring that the taco shells hold their shape.
Tips for Success
Remove Moisture: Ensure the cauliflower is thoroughly squeezed of moisture to achieve a crispy texture.
Even Baking: Spread the taco mixture evenly on the baking sheet to ensure uniform cooking.
Cooling Time: Allow the taco shells to cool before handling to ensure they firm up and become crisp.
Serving Suggestions
Taco Night: Use these cauliflower-spinach taco shells as a healthy base for your taco night. Fill them with lean proteins, fresh veggies, and your favorite low-point toppings.
Party Platter: Serve as a unique and nutritious addition to a party platter, along with a variety of dips and fillings.
Storing and Freezing
Refrigeration: Store any leftover taco shells in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To maintain crispness, reheat in the oven before serving.
Freezing: These taco shells can be frozen for up to 2 months. Place them in a freezer-safe container with parchment paper between layers. Reheat directly from frozen in the oven.
Conclusion
Cauliflower-Spinach Taco Shells offer a creative and nutritious twist on traditional taco shells, making them a fantastic choice for those following a Weight Watchers (WW) plan. With detailed instructions and nutritional information provided, this recipe ensures you can prepare a delicious and low-point taco shell that fits perfectly into your healthy eating plan. Enjoy these taco shells as a versatile base for your favorite fillings and savor the satisfaction of a guilt-free, WW-friendly meal.