Cauliflower steaks are a delicious and hearty vegetarian alternative to traditional meat steaks. Roasted to perfection and topped with a vibrant chimichurri sauce, these cauliflower steaks are full of flavor and make a great side or main dish. This recipe is easy to prepare and packs a punch with the tangy, herb-infused chimichurri sauce. It’s perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner or a special occasion!
Preparation, Cook, and Total Times
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Preparation Time: 15 minutes
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Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
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Total Time: 40-45 minutes
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Servings: 2-4
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Calories per Serving: Approximately 250 kcal
Full List of Ingredients
For the Cauliflower Steaks:
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1 large head of cauliflower
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2 tablespoons oil (olive oil or your preferred cooking oil)
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Salt (to taste)
For the Chimichurri Sauce:
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2 cloves garlic
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2 small shallots
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1 cup fresh parsley, packed
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
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1/2 cup olive oil
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2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Cauliflower
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Start by removing the leaves and trimming the base of the cauliflower head.
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Cut the cauliflower head in half through the core.
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Slice each half into 1 1/2-inch thick steaks, making sure to leave part of the core attached to hold the steaks together. This helps prevent the steaks from falling apart during cooking.
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Save any extra cauliflower florets for other dishes like cauliflower rice, mashed cauliflower, or snacks.
2. Sear the Cauliflower Steaks
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Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
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Once the oil is hot, carefully place the cauliflower steaks into the skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they develop a golden brown crust.
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Season the steaks with salt while they cook, ensuring even seasoning.
3. Roast the Cauliflower
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
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Once both sides of the cauliflower steaks are golden brown, transfer the skillet to the preheated oven.
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Roast the cauliflower for about 15-20 minutes, or until the stems are tender when pierced with a fork.
4. Make the Chimichurri Sauce
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While the cauliflower is roasting, prepare the chimichurri sauce. If using a food processor, add the garlic and shallots and process until finely minced.
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Add fresh parsley, salt, and crushed red pepper flakes. Process until the parsley is finely chopped and well mixed with the garlic and shallots.
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With the processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil and red wine vinegar until the sauce is well combined and slightly emulsified. If you prefer a chunkier sauce, you can mix the ingredients by hand.
5. Finish and Serve
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Once the cauliflower steaks are tender and cooked through, remove the skillet from the oven.
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Transfer the steaks to a serving plate and generously top with the chimichurri sauce. Don’t be shy with the sauce—it adds incredible flavor!
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Serve hot and enjoy!
6. Store and Use Leftover Sauce
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You may have leftover chimichurri sauce, which can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
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Use the leftover sauce as a dressing for salads, a marinade for other vegetables, or a flavorful addition to grilled meats.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
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Calories: 250
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Fat: 22g
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Protein: 3g
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Carbohydrates: 14g
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Fiber: 5g
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Sugars: 5g
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Sodium: 500mg
Note: Nutritional information may vary depending on specific ingredients used.
The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe
Cauliflower steaks have gained popularity as a healthy, plant-based alternative to traditional meat steaks. They are roasted and seasoned to create a crispy, savory texture, while the chimichurri sauce, with its fresh herbs and tangy flavor, adds a punch of flavor to the dish. This dish is inspired by Argentine cuisine, where chimichurri sauce is often used to accompany grilled meats, and is now enjoyed in various vegetarian and vegan recipes.
Reasons Why You’ll Love the Recipe
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Healthy and Flavorful: The cauliflower steaks are packed with nutrients like fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, while the chimichurri sauce adds a zesty, herbaceous kick.
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Simple and Delicious: With just a few ingredients and simple preparation, you can make a restaurant-worthy dish at home.
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Versatile: This dish works great as a main for vegetarians or as a side dish with grilled meats or other vegetables.
Health Benefits
Cauliflower is a nutrient-dense vegetable, rich in fiber, vitamins C and K, and antioxidants. Paired with the fresh parsley and garlic in the chimichurri sauce, this dish promotes good digestion and immune health. The olive oil in the chimichurri sauce provides healthy fats, while the vinegar adds a tangy flavor without extra calories.
Serving Suggestions
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With Grilled Meats: Serve the cauliflower steaks as a side to grilled chicken, steak, or fish.
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As a Main Dish: Serve the cauliflower steaks with a side of quinoa, rice, or roasted potatoes for a satisfying, plant-based meal.
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For a Light Meal: Serve with a fresh green salad to balance the rich flavors of the chimichurri sauce.
Cooking Tips
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Use a Heavy Skillet: A heavy skillet will help sear the cauliflower steaks evenly and get a nice brown crust.
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Don’t Overcook the Cauliflower: Keep an eye on the cauliflower while it’s roasting to ensure it’s tender but not mushy.
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Make Extra Chimichurri: This sauce is so delicious, you’ll want to keep extra on hand for other meals. It’s great on grilled vegetables, meats, or even as a salad dressing.
Variations to Try
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Spicy Chimichurri: Add more crushed red pepper flakes or a small chopped chili pepper for extra heat.
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Lemon Zest: Add lemon zest to the chimichurri sauce for a fresh, citrusy twist.
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Grilled Cauliflower: Instead of searing and roasting, try grilling the cauliflower steaks for a smoky flavor.
Conclusion
These Cauliflower Steaks with Chimichurri Sauce are a perfect combination of savory, smoky, and zesty flavors. The hearty cauliflower steaks pair beautifully with the fresh, tangy chimichurri sauce, creating a satisfying dish that can be served for any occasion. Whether you’re vegetarian, vegan, or just looking for a healthy alternative to meat, this recipe is sure to become a favorite!
10 Comprehensive FAQ Section
1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cauliflower steaks ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the oven before serving.
2. Can I make the chimichurri sauce ahead of time?
Yes, the chimichurri sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
3. Can I make this dish without garlic?
Yes, you can omit the garlic from the chimichurri sauce if you prefer a milder flavor.
4. Can I grill the cauliflower instead of roasting it?
Yes, grilling the cauliflower steaks is a great alternative and adds a smoky flavor.
5. Can I make this dish without the chimichurri sauce?
Yes, you can serve the cauliflower steaks with a simple drizzle of olive oil and lemon juice if you prefer a milder topping.
6. Can I use frozen cauliflower?
Fresh cauliflower is recommended for this recipe, but you can use frozen cauliflower if fresh is unavailable. Just be sure to thaw and drain it well before cooking.
7. How do I know when the cauliflower is done?
The cauliflower should be tender when pierced with a fork, and the edges should be golden brown and crispy.
8. Can I use different herbs in the chimichurri sauce?
Yes, you can experiment with other herbs like cilantro or oregano to change the flavor profile of the chimichurri.
9. Can I make this dish spicy?
Yes, you can add more crushed red pepper flakes or a fresh chili to the chimichurri sauce for extra heat.
10. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover cauliflower steaks and chimichurri sauce in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.