Cheesy Baked Cauliflower with Herb-Infused Cream Sauce

Introduction:

This Cheesy Baked Cauliflower with Herb-Infused Cream Sauce is a mouthwatering, comforting dish that elevates the humble cauliflower to a whole new level. Whether you’re looking for a side dish for a special meal or a satisfying vegetarian main, this recipe has it all—rich flavors, creamy textures, and a hint of freshness from the lemon and dill. The baked cauliflower is tender and infused with delicate spices, while the creamy cheese sauce brings the dish to life with a deep, savory flavor. The addition of garlic, Provencal herbs, and nutmeg creates a well-rounded dish that can please any palate. Perfect for cozy family dinners or potluck gatherings, this dish is easy to prepare but impressive in taste and presentation.

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Ingredients:

• 1 medium cauliflower, cut into pieces
• 3 slices of lemon
• Salt, to taste (for boiling water)
• Fresh dill (optional, for boiling water)
• 100 grams of butter
• 3 tablespoons flour
• 250 ml milk
• Salt, to taste (for sauce)
• Black pepper, to taste
• A pinch of nutmeg
• 200 grams hard cheese, grated
• 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
• 1 teaspoon Provencal herbs

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Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Cauliflower

1. Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Add a generous amount of salt to the water along with the 3 slices of lemon and a handful of fresh dill (optional). The lemon adds a slight tang that complements the cauliflower, while the dill brings freshness.
2. Add the cauliflower florets to the boiling water and cook for about 3 minutes. You don’t want to fully cook the cauliflower, just blanch it to maintain its texture.
3. Drain the cauliflower and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Sauce

1. In a medium saucepan, melt the 100 grams of butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the 3 tablespoons of flour and whisk continuously. Cook this mixture (known as a roux) for 1-2 minutes until it starts to turn golden brown. Be careful not to burn the flour.
2. Gradually pour in 250 ml of milk while continuing to whisk. This will create a smooth, thick sauce.
3. Season the sauce with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg to taste. The nutmeg adds a warm, nutty flavor that enhances the creaminess of the sauce.
4. Stir in 200 grams of grated hard cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and velvety.
5. Add the finely chopped garlic and 1 tablespoon of mayonnaise. The garlic adds a punch of flavor, while the mayonnaise contributes extra creaminess and richness.
6. Finally, stir in 1 teaspoon of Provencal herbs. These herbs add a fragrant, earthy flavor that complements the cheese and cauliflower perfectly.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F).
2. Place the blanched cauliflower pieces in a baking dish. Pour the creamy cheese sauce over the cauliflower, ensuring all the pieces are well coated.
3. Top the dish with a little extra grated cheese, if desired, for a crispy golden finish.
4. Bake the cauliflower in the oven for about 20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling.

Cooking Tips:

1. Choosing the Cheese: Hard cheeses like cheddar, Gruyere, or Gouda work best for this recipe. For a sharper flavor, you can also mix in some Parmesan.
2. Blanching the Cauliflower: Blanching the cauliflower for 3 minutes before baking ensures that it remains tender yet firm. Overcooking it during this step could make it mushy after baking.
3. Adding Herbs: If you love herbs, you can experiment with other fresh herbs like parsley or thyme to add even more flavor.
4. Garlic Lovers: For a more intense garlic flavor, you can roast the garlic before adding it to the sauce.
5. Crispy Top: For an extra crispy topping, you can mix some breadcrumbs with olive oil and sprinkle them over the cheese before baking.

Storage Tips:

1. Refrigeration: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 180°C (356°F) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
2. Freezing: This dish can be frozen before baking. After assembling the cauliflower and sauce in the baking dish, cover it tightly with foil and freeze for up to 1 month. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
3. Reheating: Reheating this dish in the microwave can cause the sauce to separate, so it’s best to reheat it in the oven to maintain its creamy consistency.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving):

• Calories: 280 kcal
• Protein: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fat: 20g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sodium: 500mg

This dish is relatively low in carbohydrates and packed with protein and healthy fats, making it a wholesome and filling side dish or main course. The cauliflower adds fiber and vitamins, while the cheese sauce provides essential calcium and protein.