These Crispy Parmesan Cauliflower Bites are a delicious and savory treat, perfect as an appetizer or side dish. Coated in a flavorful breadcrumb mixture and baked to golden perfection, they pair beautifully with a creamy garlic dip.
Preparation Time
- Preparation: 20 minutes
- Cooking: 25 minutes
- Total: 45 minutes
Ingredients:
For the Cauliflower:
- 1 medium cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
- 100g Parmesan cheese, grated
- 150g breadcrumbs
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp Italian herbs
- 4 tbsp olive oil
- 100g flour
For the Dip:
- Green onions, finely chopped
- 80g sour cream
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Black pepper, to taste
- Salt, to taste
Instructions:
Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F).
Prepare the Coating:
- In a large bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and Italian herbs.
Dredge the Cauliflower:
- Set up a dredging station with three bowls:
- First bowl: Flour.
- Second bowl: Olive oil.
- Third bowl: Breadcrumb mixture.
- Dip each cauliflower floret into the flour to coat lightly, then into the olive oil, and finally, coat thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture.
Bake the Cauliflower:
- Arrange the coated florets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Drizzle any remaining olive oil over the florets.
- Bake for 25 minutes or until the cauliflower is golden brown and crispy.
Prepare the Dip:
- While the cauliflower bakes, mix the sour cream with finely chopped green onions, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper.
Serve:
- Serve the baked cauliflower hot with the creamy garlic dip on the side.
- Enjoy your crispy, savory treat as a delightful appetizer or side dish!
Serving Suggestions
- Serve as an appetizer with the dip on the side.
- Pair with a fresh salad for a light meal.
- Enjoy as a side dish with your favorite main course.
Cooking Tips
- For extra crispiness, ensure the cauliflower florets are well-coated in the breadcrumb mixture.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste by adding more or less salt, pepper, and herbs.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor.
Nutritional Benefits
- Cauliflower: Rich in vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants.
- Parmesan Cheese: Provides calcium and protein.
- Olive Oil: Contains healthy fats beneficial for heart health.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian: Yes
- Vegan: No (contains Parmesan cheese and sour cream)
- Gluten-Free: No (contains breadcrumbs and flour, use gluten-free alternatives to make it gluten-free)
- Dairy-Free: No (contains Parmesan cheese and sour cream)
- Egg-Free: Yes
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Deliciously crispy and savory cauliflower bites.
- Perfect as an appetizer or side dish.
- Easy to make with simple, flavorful ingredients.
- The creamy garlic dip adds a delightful touch.
- Great for vegetarians and those looking for a nutritious snack.
Conclusion
Enjoy these Crispy Parmesan Cauliflower Bites with Creamy Garlic Dip, a perfect combination of flavors and textures that will delight your taste buds. Whether served as an appetizer or side dish, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Bon appétit!