Sauteed Cauliflower and Apples with Pecans - Serves 4

From RealSimple October 2013

Grade Level - 2, in Ducbee's Opinion
(1 - easiest, 5 - difficult)

Hands-on Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup chopped pecans, toasted
• 2 tbsp. olive oil
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 small shallot, chopped (onion is ok)
• 1 small head cauliflower (~1.5 lbs), cut into florets (~ 5 c)
• 1 red apple (ie, Fuji, Braeburn, etc), thinly sliced
• 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves, or 1/2 tsp dried
• 2 tbsp. unsalted butter
• Kosher salt & pepper

Directions:

1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.  Add the shallot and cook, stirring frequently, until softened, 3-4 minutes
2. Add cauliflower and 1/4 tsp each salt and pepper and cook, tossing occasionally, until golden, 4-6 minutes.
3. Add the apple, thyme, and water.
4. Cover and cook until the cauliflower is tender, 8-10 minutes more.
5. Stir in the butter and sprinkle with the pecans.

Optional:
Step #3: Do not add the 1/2 cup of water.  Rather, after adding the apple and thyme to the dish, transfer it all to an oven-safe baking tray/dish and bake at 400F for 15 minutes.