Enjoy a delicious and healthy twist on a classic favorite with this Crispy Baked Cauliflower with Creamy Dill Dip! Baked to golden perfection with a chickpea crumb coating and paired with a refreshing dairy-free dill dip, this dish is both nutritious and satisfying. It’s a perfect appetizer, snack, or even a light main course for anyone looking to enjoy a plant-based, gluten-free, and vegan-friendly meal.
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 220 kcal per serving
Ingredients:
For the Cauliflower Florets:
- 1 head of cauliflower
For the Crispy Coating:
- Dry Ingredients:
- 150g (1 cup) chickpea crumbs or breadcrumbs
- 1/2 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1/2 tablespoon Italian herbs
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- 30g (2 tablespoons) dairy-free parmesan or nutritional yeast
- Wet Ingredients:
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
For the Chickpea Flour Batter:
- 100g (1/2 cup) chickpea flour (gram flour)
- Water (amount depends on desired batter consistency)
- Pinch of salt
For the Creamy Dill Dip:
- 250g (1 cup) coconut yogurt or any dairy-free yogurt
- 1-2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cucumber, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh chopped dill
- Black pepper to taste
- Salt to taste
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
Directions:
- Prepare the Cauliflower:
- Break down the cauliflower head into bite-sized florets. Rinse and pat dry.
- Make the Crumb Coating:
- In a bowl, combine the chickpea crumbs or breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian herbs, salt, black pepper, and dairy-free parmesan or nutritional yeast. Mix well to ensure an even distribution of flavors.
- Prepare the Batter:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the chickpea flour and a pinch of salt. Gradually add water, whisking constantly, until you achieve a smooth batter with a consistency similar to pancake batter (neither too thick nor too runny).
- Coat the Cauliflower:
- Dip each cauliflower floret into the chickpea flour batter, allowing any excess to drip off. Then, coat the florets generously in the chickpea crumb mixture, pressing lightly to ensure the coating sticks well.
- Bake the Cauliflower:
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Arrange the coated cauliflower florets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil for extra crispiness.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until the cauliflower is golden brown and crispy.
- Make the Dip:
- While the cauliflower bakes, prepare the creamy dill dip. In a bowl, combine the coconut yogurt, minced garlic, chopped cucumber, fresh dill, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, black pepper, and chili flakes (if using). Mix well to combine. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Serve and Enjoy!:
- Once the cauliflower is crispy and golden, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly. Serve warm with the creamy dill dip on the side. Enjoy this flavorful, healthy, and satisfying dish as an appetizer, snack, or light main course!
Serving Suggestions:
- Pair the crispy baked cauliflower with a side of mixed greens or a fresh salad for a light and balanced meal.
- Add extra lemon wedges on the side for a zesty twist.
- Perfect for serving as a party appetizer or a snack for game nights.
Cooking Tips:
- To make the cauliflower extra crispy, make sure to spread the florets in a single layer on the baking sheet, leaving some space between each piece.
- For a gluten-free option, use chickpea crumbs or gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- To achieve a more intense flavor, marinate the cauliflower florets in the batter for 15-20 minutes before coating with the crumbs.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Cauliflower is a low-calorie vegetable rich in fiber, vitamins C and K, and antioxidants that support immune function and reduce inflammation.
- Chickpea flour is high in protein and fiber, making the batter not only flavorful but also nutritious.
- The dairy-free dill dip is packed with probiotics from the yogurt and vitamins from fresh herbs and cucumber.
Dietary Information:
- Vegan and gluten-free.
- Dairy-free and egg-free.
- Low in carbohydrates and high in plant-based protein and fiber.
Nutritional Facts (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 6g
- Sugars: 5g
- Fat: 8g
Storage Tips:
- Store any leftover crispy cauliflower in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to regain crispiness.
- The creamy dill dip can be stored separately in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Healthy and Delicious: Packed with flavor and nutrients without the need for deep frying.
- Easy to Make: Simple steps that yield fantastic results.
- Versatile: Suitable for various diets, including vegan and gluten-free.
- Perfect for Sharing: A great dish to bring to parties or enjoy with family and friends.
Conclusion:
This Crispy Baked Cauliflower with Creamy Dill Dip is a delightful and nutritious way to enjoy a classic comfort food without the guilt. Baked to perfection and paired with a fresh and tangy dill dip, this dish will satisfy your cravings while keeping things healthy. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or looking for a new plant-based recipe, these crispy cauliflower bites are sure to impress!
10 Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use regular flour instead of chickpea flour?
Yes, but chickpea flour adds a unique flavor and protein content. - Are these bites gluten-free?
Yes, if you use gluten-free breadcrumbs or chickpea crumbs. - Can I use regular yogurt for the dip?
Yes, if you are not vegan or dairy-free, regular Greek yogurt works well. - How can I make the cauliflower spicier?
Add some cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the crumb mixture. - Can I air fry the cauliflower instead of baking?
Yes, air frying works great and can make the cauliflower even crispier. - Can I prepare the cauliflower in advance?
Yes, you can coat the cauliflower in advance and store it in the fridge until ready to bake. - What other dips go well with this?
Try a spicy sriracha mayo or a tangy tahini dressing. - How do I make the dip thicker?
Use less lemon juice or drain the yogurt to remove excess liquid. - Can I add cheese to the cauliflower coating?
Yes, regular or vegan cheese can be added for extra flavor. - How can I make this a full meal?
Serve with a side of quinoa, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.