Description

If you’re looking for a crispy, flavorful, and healthy alternative to fried snacks, this Crispy Baked Cauliflower is the perfect dish! Coated in a golden, crunchy Parmesan and panko crust, these cauliflower bites are baked to perfection without the need for excess oil. The result? A deliciously crispy texture with a light and airy crunch!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Baked 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 fresh parsley, chopped
100 g Parmesan cheese, grated
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste

For the Tangy Dipping Sauce (Optional):

200 g sour cream
100 g yogurt
Some fresh parsley, chopped
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Lemon juice to taste

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Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: Prepare the Coating

In a large bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs, minced garlic, Italian herbs, chopped parsley, grated Parmesan, salt, and black pepper.

Step 3: Set Up the Breading Stations

Place flour in a shallow bowl.
Beat eggs in a second bowl.
Keep the breadcrumb mixture in a third bowl.

Step 4: Coat the Cauliflower

Dip each cauliflower floret into the flour, shaking off excess.
Then, coat it in beaten eggs, ensuring full coverage.
Finally, roll it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to help the coating stick.

Step 5: Bake Until Crispy

Arrange the coated florets on the prepared baking sheet.
Drizzle with olive oil for extra crispiness.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.

Step 6: Make the Tangy Dipping Sauce (Optional)

In a small bowl, mix sour cream, yogurt, chopped parsley, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice.
Stir until smooth and adjust seasoning to taste.

Step 7: Serve & Enjoy!

Remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley.
Serve immediately with the dipping sauce on the side.

Notes

Extra Crispiness Tip: Bake the florets on a wire rack placed over the baking sheet for even crisping.
Make it Spicy: Add cayenne pepper or paprika to the breadcrumb mixture for extra heat.
Dairy-Free Option: Skip the Parmesan or use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
Air Fryer Option: Cook at 200°C (400°F) for 15-20 minutes, shaking halfway.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Snack
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American