Crispy Parmesan Cauliflower Steaks

Crispy Parmesan Cauliflower Steaks with Avocado Dip

If you’re looking for a healthy yet indulgent dish that’s full of flavor and texture, these Crispy Parmesan Cauliflower Steaks are the perfect answer! Roasted to golden perfection with a crunchy Parmesan crust, these cauliflower steaks are served alongside a creamy avocado dip that’s bursting with fresh and zesty flavors. Whether you’re serving this as a main course or a side, this dish is a delicious and satisfying way to enjoy more vegetables.

Ingredients:

For the Cauliflower Steaks:

• 1 cauliflower head
• ¼ cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon chili pepper flakes
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (for coating)
• Optional garnish: fresh chives, chopped

For the Avocado Dip:

• 1 avocado, halved
• 2 scallions, roughly chopped
• ½ lime, juiced
• 1 jalapeño, deseeded and roughly chopped
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan (or nutritional yeast)
• ¼ cup parsley
• ⅓ cup water
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

Step 1: Prepare the Cauliflower Steaks

1. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Dry the cauliflower head thoroughly, then cut it in half. Slice each half into 1-inch thick steaks. Depending on the size of your cauliflower, you should get about 4 steaks.
3. Transfer the cauliflower steaks to the prepared baking sheet.

Step 2: Season the Steaks

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, 2 tablespoons of grated Parmesan, minced garlic, paprika, onion powder, salt, and chili pepper flakes.
2. Brush the cauliflower steaks generously on all sides with the seasoning mixture.
3. Dip one side of each steak into the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, then place the Parmesan-coated side down on the baking sheet.

Step 3: Bake the Cauliflower

1. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake at 450°F for 10 minutes.
2. After 10 minutes, reduce the oven temperature to 425°F and continue baking for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the cauliflower steaks are golden brown and crispy on the outside. The exact cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your cauliflower steaks.
3. Once done, remove the steaks from the oven and serve with the crispy Parmesan side up. Garnish with freshly chopped chives if desired.

Step 4: Make the Avocado Dip

1. While the cauliflower steaks are baking, prepare the avocado dip. In a mini food processor, combine the avocado, scallions, lime juice, jalapeño, olive oil, Parmesan (or nutritional yeast), parsley, water, salt, and pepper.
2. Blend the mixture until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning to your preference.
3. Transfer the dip to a small bowl and set aside.

Step 5: Serve

Serve the crispy Parmesan cauliflower steaks warm, accompanied by the creamy avocado dip. This dish makes for a satisfying and flavorful meal or a hearty side dish that pairs perfectly with the refreshing dip.

Recipe Details:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
• Total Time: 40-45 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: 320 kcal per serving

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Crispy and Flavorful: The Parmesan crust gives the cauliflower steaks a delicious, golden-brown crunch, while the seasoning adds a depth of flavor.
• Healthy and Satisfying: Packed with fiber and nutrients from the cauliflower and healthy fats from the avocado, this dish is both nutritious and filling.
• Versatile: Serve these cauliflower steaks as a vegetarian main course or pair them as a side with your favorite protein.

Tips for Success:

• Cut Even Steaks: To ensure even cooking, try to slice the cauliflower into equal-sized steaks. Save any smaller florets for another use, like roasting or adding to a stir-fry.
• Customize the Dip: For an extra kick, leave the seeds in the jalapeño, or add more lime juice for a tangier flavor.

These Crispy Parmesan Cauliflower Steaks with Avocado Dip are a tasty and healthy alternative to your typical weeknight meal. With their rich flavor and crunchy texture, they are bound to impress both cauliflower lovers and skeptics alike. Enjoy!

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