Looking for a tasty, vegetarian-friendly dish that’s both hearty and packed with flavor? These Savory Cauliflower Steaks with a Parmesan crust are sure to impress. Roasted to perfection with a blend of spices, garlic, and a crispy parmesan topping, this dish offers a delicious and satisfying alternative to traditional steaks. Whether you’re looking to reduce your meat intake or want to serve up something fresh and creative, these cauliflower steaks are ideal for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Plus, they’re simple to prepare and bursting with flavor!
Ingredients:
For the Cauliflower Steaks:
- 1 large head of cauliflower
- 1/4 cup olive oil (60 ml)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- A pinch of black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 3 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (20g)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Cauliflower:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Remove the green leaves from the cauliflower and trim the stem, but leave enough of the core intact so the head stays together.
- Slice the cauliflower into thick “steaks” about 1 to 1.5 inches wide. You should get 2-3 large steaks from the center, while the outer sections may break into florets (you can roast these along with the steaks).
- Season the Cauliflower:
- In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder to form a flavorful seasoning oil.
- Brush both sides of the cauliflower steaks generously with the seasoned olive oil mixture, ensuring they are well coated.
- Roast the Cauliflower:
- Place the cauliflower steaks on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, leaving space between them to allow for even roasting.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, then carefully flip the steaks using a spatula.
- After flipping, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top of each steak.
- Crisp and Finish:
- Continue roasting the cauliflower steaks for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cauliflower is golden brown and tender, and the Parmesan has melted and crisped up into a delicious crust.
- If you like extra crispiness, you can switch to the broil setting for the last 2-3 minutes, but keep a close eye to avoid burning the cheese.
- Serve:
- Once done, remove the cauliflower steaks from the oven and let them rest for a couple of minutes.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice for an added burst of freshness. Pair with a side salad, quinoa, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
Conclusion:
These Savory Cauliflower Steaks with a Parmesan Crust offer a satisfying and flavorful vegetarian option that rivals any traditional steak. The cauliflower turns tender on the inside while developing a crispy, cheesy outer layer that’s irresistibly good. With the perfect balance of spices and garlic, this dish is sure to become a favorite, whether you’re cooking for yourself or impressing guests with a creative twist on a classic ingredient. It’s wholesome, delicious, and easy to make—what’s not to love?