Cauliflower Parmesan Steaks: A Veggie Delight!
In today’s culinary adventure, we’re diving into a dish that’ll make even the staunchest veggie skeptics swoon! Cauliflower has been having a moment in the culinary world, and for good reason. It’s versatile, nutritious, and when done right, absolutely delicious. This recipe for Cauliflower Parmesan Steaks is a perfect example of how this humble vegetable can shine as a main dish. Let’s explore how to transform a simple head of cauliflower into a mouth-watering and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 large head cauliflower, stem trimmed and cut vertically into 1″ planks
- 3 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
- Kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 1 1/2 cups marinara sauce
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan, divided
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup basil leaves, torn if large
- Crushed red pepper flakes
Directions:
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 38 minutes
Total Time: 48 minutes
Calories per Serving: 290
Servings: 4
Step 1: Preheat your oven to a fiery 425°F (220°C). Take your cauliflower planks and lay them out on a rimmed baking sheet. Gently brush each side with the olive oil, which will help them roast to perfection. Season generously with salt and pepper to bring out the cauliflower’s natural flavors.
Step 2: Send your cauliflower on a roasting journey in the oven. Flip them once halfway through to ensure even caramelization. After about 35 minutes, they should be tender and golden—a testament to their readiness for the next delicious phase.
Step 3: Now, it’s time for the crowning glory. Remove the cauliflower from the oven and top each steak with a hearty spoonful of marinara sauce. Sprinkle the mozzarella and half of the Parmesan over the top. This cheesy duo will bring a beautiful melt and a savory punch.
Step 4: Switch your oven to broil. Return the sheet to the oven and broil the cauliflower steaks for about 3 minutes. Watch as the cheese bubbles and turns golden in spots, transforming into a picture-perfect finish.
Serving Suggestion: Plate your cauliflower steaks while they’re warm. Garnish with the remaining Parmesan, fresh basil leaves, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a little kick. This dish not only looks stunning but also packs a flavor punch that will leave everyone at the table reaching for seconds.
The Culinary Takeaway:
Cauliflower Parmesan Steaks offer a fantastic way to enjoy a meat-free meal without sacrificing flavor or satisfaction. It’s a dish that’s both comforting and elegant, proving that vegetarian options can stand proudly in the spotlight. Whether you’re a vegetarian or just looking to incorporate more veggies into your diet, this recipe is sure to delight.
Enjoy the process and the meal, and remember, the best part about cooking is making it your own. Feel free to tweak the spices and herbs to suit your taste. Happy cooking!
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Cauliflower Parmesan Steaks
- Total Time: 48 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
Description
Cauliflower Parmesan is a delightful twist on the classic Parmesan dish, swapping out traditional chicken for hearty slices of cauliflower. This vegetarian alternative is smothered in a rich, savory marinable sauce, topped with a melty mozzarella and Parmesan cheese blend, and finished with a sprinkle of fresh basil and a dash of red pepper flakes. It’s a dish that offers both comfort and a burst of flavor, perfect for those who enjoy a meat-free meal without sacrificing depth or satisfaction.
Not only is this dish a treat for the taste buds, but it’s also incredibly easy to prepare, making it ideal for a weeknight dinner. With its elegant presentation, the Cauliflower Parmesan also serves as a wonderful option for entertaining guests. Whether you’re looking to impress or just want to enjoy a simple, healthy meal, this recipe is sure to delight.
Ingredients
1 large head cauliflower, stem trimmed and cut vertically into 1” planks
3 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
Kosher salt
Freshly ground black pepper
1 1/2 c. marinara sauce
1/4 c. freshly grated Parmesan, divided
1 c. shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 c. basil leaves, torn if large
Crushed red pepper flakes
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat oven to 425°F. Arrange cauliflower in a single layer on a rimmed baking sheet and brush both sides with oil. Season with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Roast, flipping once, until cauliflower is tender and golden, about 35 minutes. Remove from oven and top each cauliflower steak with marinara sauce. Sprinkle with mozzarella and half of the Parmesan.
Step 3: Switch oven to broil and broil cauliflower until cheese is bubbly and golden in spots, about 3 minutes. Serve with remaining Parmesan, basil leaves, and red pepper flakes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 38 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 290 Kcal