Baked Cauliflower with Creamy Cheese Sauce

This baked cauliflower dish combines tender cauliflower with a rich, creamy cheese sauce, enhanced with garlic and Italian herbs. Topped with a delicious yogurt and cherry tomato sauce, it’s a delightful and flavorful meal or side dish.

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients

For the Cauliflower:

• 1 cauliflower, cut into florets
• 3 lemon slices
• Salt
• Fresh dill, chopped

For the Cheese Sauce:

• 100 g butter
• 3 tablespoons flour
• 250 ml (1 cup) milk
• Salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste
• Nutmeg to taste
• 200 g hard cheese, grated
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
• Italian herbs to taste

For the Yogurt Sauce:

• 3 cherry tomatoes, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste
• 3 tablespoons Greek yogurt or sour cream
• Fresh dill, chopped
• Italian herbs to taste

Directions

1. Prepare the Cauliflower:
   1. In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add the lemon slices and a pinch of salt.
   2. Cook the cauliflower florets in the boiling water for 3 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Make the Cheese Sauce:
   1. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
   2. Add the flour and whisk continuously for about 1-2 minutes until the mixture is smooth and bubbly.
   3. Gradually add the milk, continuing to whisk until the sauce thickens.
   4. Season with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg.
   5. Remove from heat and stir in the grated cheese, minced garlic, and mayonnaise until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
3. Assemble and Bake:
   1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
   2. Line a baking pan with parchment paper.
   3. Place the blanched cauliflower florets in the baking pan.
   4. Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the cauliflower.
   5. Sprinkle with Italian herbs.
   6. In a small bowl, mix the remaining grated cheese with minced garlic and Italian herbs.
   7. Sprinkle the cheese mixture over the cauliflower.
   8. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
4. Prepare the Yogurt Sauce:
   1. In a bowl, combine the finely chopped cherry tomatoes, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, Greek yogurt or sour cream, chopped dill, and Italian herbs.
   2. Mix well until all ingredients are well incorporated.
5. Serve:
   • Serve the baked cauliflower hot, topped with the yogurt sauce.

Serving Suggestions

• This dish can be served as a main course or a side dish.
• Pair with a fresh green salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Cooking Tips

• Ensure the cauliflower is cooked to a tender-crisp texture before baking to avoid overcooking.
• You can adjust the amount of garlic and herbs to suit your taste preferences.

Nutritional Benefits

• High in fiber and vitamins from the cauliflower.
• Rich in calcium and protein from the cheese and yogurt.

Dietary Information

• Vegetarian.
• Can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free flour in the sauce.

Storage Tips

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• This dish is creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor.
• The combination of cauliflower and cheese sauce is comforting and satisfying.
• The yogurt and cherry tomato sauce adds a refreshing and tangy twist.

Conclusion

Enjoy this delicious baked cauliflower with creamy cheese sauce for a satisfying and flavorful meal. Easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Bon appétit!