Baked Cauliflower Steaks are a healthy, delicious, and versatile dish. With their crispy edges and tender centers, these cauliflower steaks are perfect as a side dish or a vegetarian main. Seasoned with herbs and spices, they are both nutritious and flavorful.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 4
Ingredients
- Cauliflower: 1 large head
- Olive Oil: 3 tablespoons
- Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon
- Paprika: 1 teaspoon
- Ground Cumin (optional): ½ teaspoon
- Salt and Black Pepper: To taste
- Parmesan Cheese (optional): ¼ cup (25 g), grated
- Fresh Parsley or Thyme: 1 tablespoon, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Directions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease it lightly with olive oil.
- Prepare the Cauliflower:
- Remove the outer leaves from the cauliflower and trim the stem, but leave the core intact to hold the steaks together.
- Slice the cauliflower into ¾-inch thick steaks. You should get 3–4 steaks from a medium head of cauliflower. Reserve any smaller florets for another use or roast them alongside the steaks.
- Season the Steaks:
- In a small bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, cumin (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Brush the mixture generously on both sides of each cauliflower steak.
- Bake the Steaks:
- Place the seasoned cauliflower steaks on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. Flip the steaks carefully with a spatula and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until golden brown and tender.
- Optional Parmesan Topping:
- During the last 5 minutes of baking, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the steaks for a cheesy crust.
- Serve:
- Remove the cauliflower steaks from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley or thyme, if desired.
- Serve immediately.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve as a side dish with roasted chicken or grilled salmon.
- Top with a dollop of pesto or hummus for extra flavor.
- Pair with a fresh green salad for a light vegetarian meal.
- Serve alongside rice or quinoa for a complete meal.
- Add a drizzle of tahini or balsamic glaze for a flavorful finishing touch.
Cooking Tips
- Use a sharp knife to cut even slices for uniform cooking.
- Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet to ensure the steaks roast evenly.
- For extra crispiness, broil the steaks for 2–3 minutes at the end of baking.
- Customize the seasoning with your favorite spice blends like curry powder, smoked paprika, or Italian herbs.
- If you have leftovers, reheat them in an air fryer or oven for a crisp texture.
Nutritional Benefits
- Cauliflower: Low in calories and rich in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants.
- Olive Oil: Provides healthy fats and enhances flavor.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian and gluten-free.
- Can be made vegan by omitting Parmesan cheese.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving, Approx.):
- Calories: 120
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fat: 8g
- Fiber: 3g
Storage
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
- Freezer: Not recommended, as the texture of roasted cauliflower changes after freezing.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple to make with minimal ingredients.
- Healthy and packed with flavor.
- Versatile as a side or main dish.
- Naturally gluten-free and customizable to various diets.
Conclusion
Baked Cauliflower Steaks are an easy, nutritious, and delicious way to enjoy cauliflower. Whether served as a hearty side dish or a satisfying vegetarian main, they’re a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or use a plant-based alternative. - What other seasonings can I use?
You can use Italian seasoning, curry powder, or chili flakes for added flavor. - Can I grill the cauliflower steaks instead of baking?
Absolutely! Grill over medium heat for 4–5 minutes per side until tender and charred. - Why do my steaks fall apart?
Ensure you leave the core intact when slicing the cauliflower to hold the steaks together. - Can I use frozen cauliflower?
Fresh cauliflower is recommended for the best texture, but thawed frozen cauliflower can work if patted dry. - What can I do with the leftover cauliflower pieces?
Roast them alongside the steaks or save them for soups, salads, or stir-fries. - Can I add cheese before baking?
It’s better to add cheese during the last few minutes of baking to avoid burning. - How can I make them spicier?
Add cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the seasoning mix. - Can I use this recipe for other vegetables?
Yes, try it with eggplant, zucchini, or large mushroom caps. - How do I prevent them from becoming soggy?
Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet and ensure your cauliflower is dry before seasoning.