Description
Crispy parmesan cauliflower bites deliver irresistible flavor in each golden, cheesy morsel. Mediterranean-inspired seasonings and a perfect crunchy exterior make these appetizers an instant crowd-pleaser you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 3 cups (710 ml) cauliflower florets, washed and thoroughly dried (about 1 small head of cauliflower)
- ½ cup (50 g) Parmesan cheese, finely grated
Seasoning and Binding:
- 2 tablespoons (30 ml) butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare a baking sheet by lightly coating it with non-stick spray to prevent the cauliflower from sticking during roasting.
- Fire up the oven to a high temperature of 425°F (220°C), ensuring it reaches the full heat before introducing the cauliflower.
- Transform the whole cauliflower into bite-sized florets, creating uniform pieces that will cook evenly and crisp nicely.
- Melt butter thoroughly, using a pastry brush to meticulously coat each cauliflower piece, guaranteeing a rich, golden exterior.
- Craft a savory seasoning blend by combining finely grated Parmesan cheese with smoky paprika and freshly ground black pepper.
- Generously dust the butter-glazed cauliflower with the Parmesan mixture, gently tumbling the florets to achieve a comprehensive, even seasoning coverage.
- Distribute the seasoned florets across the prepared baking sheet, arranging them in a single layer to promote optimal browning and crispiness.
- Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven and roast for approximately 20 minutes, watching for edges to transform into a delectable golden-brown color and develop a crisp texture.
- Remove the cauliflower bites immediately from the oven and serve piping hot, capturing their maximum crunch and flavor intensity.
Notes
- Perfectly crispy cauliflower bites need a high-temperature oven to achieve golden-brown edges and a delightful crunch.
- Coat cauliflower thoroughly with melted butter to help the Parmesan cheese mixture adhere and create a flavorful, crispy exterior.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for maximum flavor and better melting compared to pre-packaged grated cheese.
- Space florets evenly on the baking sheet to ensure each piece gets crispy without steaming from overcrowding.
- Check cauliflower around 15-18 minutes to prevent burning, as oven temperatures can vary slightly.
- Serve immediately while hot and crispy for the best texture and most enjoyable eating experience.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 350 mg
- Fat: 9 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 7 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 8 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg