This Baked Cauliflower with Creamy Cheese Sauce is a delightful dish that combines tender cauliflower with a rich, cheesy sauce and a tangy tomato-anchovy topping. Perfect as a main course or a side dish, this recipe is sure to impress with its blend of flavors and textures.
Preparation Time:
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients:
For the Cauliflower:
- 1 cauliflower
- 3 lemon slices
- Sprigs of dill
- Salt to taste
For the Creamy Cheese Sauce:
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 250 ml milk
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- Nutmeg to taste
- Parmesan cheese (amount depending on taste)
- Rosemary (to taste)
- Mozzarella cheese (150-200 grams)
For the Tomato-Anchovy Sauce:
- 1 tomato, finely chopped
- 1 clove of garlic, minced
- Canned anchovies (3-4)
- Several sprigs of dill
- 1 pepper, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- Black pepper to taste
- A little bit of salt
Instructions:
- Cook the Cauliflower:
- Cut the cauliflower into florets.
- In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add lemon slices, sprigs of dill, and salt to taste.
- Add the cauliflower florets and cook for 5 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Creamy Cheese Sauce:
- In a saucepan, melt a bit of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Add 2 tablespoons of flour and stir constantly to form a roux.
- Gradually add 250 ml of milk, stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and nutmeg to taste.
- Add grated Parmesan cheese and chopped rosemary to taste, stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens.
- Assemble the Cauliflower Bake:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (350°F).
- Place the cooked cauliflower florets in a baking dish.
- Pour the creamy cheese sauce over the cauliflower.
- Sprinkle with 150-200 grams of shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
- Prepare the Tomato-Anchovy Sauce:
- In a bowl, combine the finely chopped tomato, minced garlic, canned anchovies, chopped dill, and finely chopped pepper.
- Add 2 tablespoons of sour cream, black pepper, and a little bit of salt.
- Mix well until all ingredients are combined.
- Serve:
- Serve the baked cauliflower hot, topped with the prepared tomato-anchovy sauce.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve as a main dish with a side of crusty bread or as a side dish with grilled meats.
- Pair with a light salad for a complete meal.
Cooking Tips:
- Ensure the cauliflower is not overcooked during the boiling step to keep it slightly crunchy.
- Adjust the seasoning of the sauces to your taste preferences.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Cauliflower: Rich in vitamins C and K, and high in fiber.
- Garlic: Contains antioxidants and has various health benefits.
- Cheese: Provides calcium and protein.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian: Omit the anchovies in the tomato sauce.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour for the cheese sauce.
Storage:
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- It’s a flavorful and satisfying dish that’s easy to make.
- The combination of creamy cheese and tangy tomato-anchovy sauce is delightful.
- Versatile enough to be a main course or a side dish.
Conclusion:
This Baked Cauliflower with Creamy Cheese Sauce and Tomato-Anchovy Sauce is a delicious and nutritious meal that will delight your taste buds. Perfect for any occasion, it’s a great way to enjoy the natural goodness of cauliflower with a flavorful twist. Enjoy making and sharing this wonderful recipe with your loved ones!