Are you ready to elevate your vegetable game with a dish that’s not only delicious but also visually stunning? Say hello to Parmesan Crusted Cauliflower Steaks! This Italian-inspired recipe transforms humble cauliflower into a gourmet delight that’s crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Perfect as a main dish or a side, these flavorful steaks are sure to impress your family and friends. With just a handful of ingredients and a quick prep time, you can create a culinary masterpiece that will have everyone asking for seconds. Dive into this recipe and discover how to make your meals exciting again!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 1 head cauliflower, sliced into steaks
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Carefully slice the cauliflower head vertically into 1-inch thick steaks, starting from the center. You should get 2-3 whole steaks, with some florets potentially falling off, which can still be roasted.
- In a shallow mixing bowl, combine grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Mix thoroughly to create an even coating mixture.
- Gently brush both sides of each cauliflower steak with olive oil, ensuring complete coverage to help the cheese mixture adhere and promote even browning.
- Carefully press the Parmesan-breadcrumb mixture onto both sides of each cauliflower steak, ensuring a thick and even coating that completely covers the surface.
- Arrange the coated cauliflower steaks on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each piece to allow proper air circulation and even roasting.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the cauliflower is tender and the crust is golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 2-3 minutes. Transfer to serving plates and optionally garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives.
- Serve immediately while hot and crispy, accompanied by a side salad or your preferred dipping sauce.
Tips
- Choose the Right Cauliflower: Look for a fresh, firm head of cauliflower with tightly packed florets. This will ensure your steaks hold together well during cooking.
- Uniform Thickness: When slicing the cauliflower, aim for 1-inch thick steaks. This thickness allows for even cooking and ensures a nice crispy crust without overcooking the inside.
- Don’t Skip the Parchment Paper: Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper not only prevents sticking but also makes cleanup a breeze, allowing you to focus on enjoying your meal.
- Customize Your Coating: Feel free to add herbs or spices to the Parmesan-breadcrumb mixture for an extra flavor boost. Garlic powder, Italian seasoning, or even a pinch of chili flakes can elevate the taste.
- Monitor the Roasting Time: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your cauliflower steaks as they roast. You want them golden brown and crispy, but not burnt!
- Serve Immediately: For the best texture and flavor, serve the steaks right out of the oven while they’re still hot and crispy. Pair them with a refreshing side salad or your favorite dipping sauce for a complete meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 13g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 15mg
