Description
Crispy parmesan cauliflower steaks offer a delightful plant-based twist on classic comfort cuisine. Golden-brown edges and rich parmesan coating create an irresistible centerpiece that will satisfy both vegetable enthusiasts and curious diners seeking a delectable alternative to traditional main courses.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1 cauliflower head
- 1 avocado, halved
- 2 scallions, roughly chopped
- 1 jalapeño, deseeded and roughly chopped
Cheeses and Seasonings:
- 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup (120 milliliters) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon (15 milliliters) grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast)
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon chili pepper flakes
Oils, Herbs, and Additional Ingredients:
- ¼ cup (60 milliliters) olive oil
- 1 tablespoon (15 milliliters) olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ lime, juiced
- ¼ cup (60 milliliters) parsley
- ⅓ cup (80 milliliters) water
- Optional garnish: fresh chives, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Position an oven rack in the center and heat to a scorching 450°F (230°C), ensuring even cooking environment.
- Carefully slice whole cauliflower through its core into robust, centimeter-thick planks, maintaining structural integrity of the vegetable.
- Meticulously pat cauliflower steaks dry using clean kitchen towels to eliminate excess moisture, which prevents proper caramelization.
- Craft a robust seasoning blend by whisking olive oil with grated Parmesan, minced garlic, paprika, onion powder, salt, and chili pepper flakes into a fragrant marinade.
- Generously coat each cauliflower steak with the spice mixture, ensuring complete and even coverage on all surfaces.
- Press one side of each steak into additional freshly grated Parmesan, creating a crisp, golden crust.
- Arrange steaks on a parchment-lined baking sheet, Parmesan-crusted side facing downward to achieve maximum crunchiness.
- Roast at initial 450°F for 10 minutes, then reduce temperature to 425°F and continue baking for 20-25 minutes until edges turn deeply golden and crisp.
- While cauliflower roasts, prepare avocado dip by blending avocado, scallions, lime juice, jalapeño, olive oil, Parmesan, parsley, water, salt, and pepper until silky smooth.
- Once cauliflower emerges from oven, garnish with freshly chopped chives and serve immediately alongside creamy avocado dip.
Notes
- Perfectly crisp cauliflower steaks require thorough drying to ensure maximum browning and prevent soggy texture.
- High-temperature roasting creates a golden, crunchy exterior while maintaining a tender interior.
- Parmesan cheese coating provides a savory, crispy layer that elevates the vegetable’s natural flavor.
- One-sided Parmesan coating allows for a concentrated, cheesy crust while keeping the other side seasoned and flavorful.
- Avocado dip offers a creamy, zesty complement that balances the roasted cauliflower’s richness.
- Adjust baking time based on steak thickness to prevent overcooking and maintain a delicate texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Fat: 24 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 19 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 16 g
- Fiber: 7 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 10 mg