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Cheesy Stuffed Cauliflower with Tuna and Vegetables


  • Author: Olivia
  • Total Time: 45mins

Description

If you’re looking for a flavorful, nutritious, and hearty dish that’s also visually appealing, this Cheesy Stuffed Cauliflower with Tuna and Vegetables is the perfect choice. Packed with a mix of colorful vegetables, aromatic spices, and melty cheese, this recipe turns a humble cauliflower into a delicious main course or a standout side dish. The addition of tuna adds a dose of protein, making it a well-rounded meal that’s satisfying and wholesome.


Ingredients

For the Roasted Cauliflower:

  • Cauliflower: 1 whole head
  • Olive oil: ~1/4 cup (60 ml)
  • Salt: 1 teaspoon
  • Black pepper: A pinch
  • Paprika: 1 teaspoon
  • Garlic powder: 1 teaspoon
  • Parmesan cheese: ~3 tablespoons grated (20 g)

For the Filling:

  • Onion: 1 medium, finely diced
  • Carrot: 1 medium, grated
  • Olive oil: 3 tablespoons
  • Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
  • Black pepper: A pinch
  • Garlic powder: 1 teaspoon
  • Dried parsley: 1 teaspoon
  • Canned tuna: 1 can (80 g), drained (optional)
  • Mozzarella cheese: 100 g, shredded
  • Chopped parsley: For garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Your Oven:
    • Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
  2. Clean and Season the Cauliflower:
    • Remove the green leaves and trim the stem of the cauliflower so it can sit flat.
    • Place the cauliflower in a large pot and blanch it in boiling water for 5-7 minutes. This will help soften it slightly and reduce cooking time. After blanching, drain and pat dry.
  3. Coat with Seasoning:
    • In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
    • Rub this mixture all over the cauliflower, ensuring it’s evenly coated. This will give it a flavorful crust once roasted.
  4. Sprinkle Parmesan Cheese:
    • Place the cauliflower on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
    • Sprinkle the top with grated Parmesan cheese.
  5. Roast the Cauliflower:
    • Roast in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender and golden brown on the outside.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

  1. Sauté the Vegetables:
    • While the cauliflower is roasting, heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until soft and translucent.
    • Add the grated carrot and continue cooking for another 3-4 minutes.
  2. Season the Filling:
    • Season the mixture with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and dried parsley. Stir well to combine.
    • If using tuna, add it to the pan and break it up with a spoon. Cook until everything is well combined and heated through. Remove from heat.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

  1. Fill the Roasted Cauliflower:
    • Carefully remove the roasted cauliflower from the oven. Using a small knife, gently create small cavities in the cauliflower florets, making room to spoon in the filling.
    • Spoon the vegetable and tuna mixture into the gaps, trying to stuff it as much as possible.
  2. Add Mozzarella Cheese:
    • Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella over the filled cauliflower, allowing it to melt and bind the filling together.
    • Return the cauliflower to the oven and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  3. Garnish:
    • Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh, vibrant touch.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

  • Slice the cauliflower into wedges and serve hot. Enjoy the combination of roasted, cheesy goodness with the savory filling inside.
  • Prep Time: 15mins
  • Cook Time: 30mins