Baked cauliflower tastes better than meat! This crispy roasted cauliflower is simply delicious and easy to make. With a golden brown breaded exterior and a tender interior, this dish is sure to convert even the biggest vegetable skeptics. The cauliflower pairs perfectly with a fresh, tangy sauce that enhances its flavor. Enjoy this delightful dish!
Preparation Time
- Preparation: 15 minutes
- Cooking: 25 minutes
- Total: 40 minutes
Ingredients:
For the Cauliflower:
- 1 kg cauliflower, cut into florets
- 150 g panko breadcrumbs
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 100 g flour
- 3 eggs, beaten
- 5 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian herbs
- Some parsley, chopped
- 100 g Parmesan cheese, grated
- A little bit of salt
- Black pepper
For the Sauce (optional):
- 200 g sour cream
- 100 g yogurt
- Parsley, chopped
- Salt
- Pepper
- Lemon juice
Instructions:
Prepare the Cauliflower:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (392°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cut the cauliflower into bite-sized florets.
- In a large bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, minced garlic, Italian herbs, chopped parsley, grated Parmesan cheese, a little bit of salt, and black pepper.
- Set up a breading station with three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with the breadcrumb mixture.
Bread the Cauliflower:
- Dredge each cauliflower floret in the flour, shaking off any excess.
- Dip the floret into the beaten eggs, ensuring it is fully coated.
- Roll the floret in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to adhere the crumbs.
Bake the Cauliflower:
- Place the breaded cauliflower florets on the prepared baking sheet.
- Drizzle the olive oil evenly over the florets.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until the cauliflower is golden brown and crispy.
Prepare the Sauce (optional):
- In a small bowl, combine the sour cream, yogurt, chopped parsley, salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice.
- Mix well and adjust seasoning to taste.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve the crispy baked cauliflower hot, straight from the oven.
- Pair with the optional sauce for a refreshing dip.
- Garnish with additional chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Tips
- Ensure the cauliflower florets are evenly sized for consistent cooking.
- For extra crispiness, you can toast the panko breadcrumbs in a dry pan before using them.
- If you prefer a spicier flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture.
Nutritional Benefits
- Cauliflower: Low in calories, high in fiber, and rich in vitamins C and K.
- Olive Oil: Provides healthy fats beneficial for heart health.
- Parmesan Cheese: Adds protein and calcium.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian: Yes
- Vegan: No (contains eggs and Parmesan cheese)
- Gluten-Free: No (use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour to make it gluten-free)
- Dairy-Free: No (contains Parmesan cheese)
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll love this Crispy Baked Cauliflower for its irresistible texture and flavor. The combination of a crunchy, golden exterior with a tender interior makes it a perfect side dish or snack. Plus, the fresh, tangy sauce adds an extra layer of deliciousness.
Conclusion
Enjoy this Crispy Baked Cauliflower, a dish that proves vegetables can be as satisfying as meat. With its simple preparation and delightful taste, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Serve it with the optional sauce for an extra burst of flavor. Bon appétit! 😋