Crispy Parmesan Cauliflower Steaks

Looking for a delicious and easy-to-make vegetarian dish? These Crispy Parmesan Cauliflower Steaks are the perfect choice! With their crispy exterior and tender interior, these cauliflower steaks are bursting with flavor and are sure to impress your family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

1. Great flavors: The combination of garlic, paprika, and parmesan cheese creates a savory and delicious coating for the cauliflower steaks.
2. Quick prep time: This recipe comes together in just a few simple steps, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
3. Perfect for meal prep: These cauliflower steaks can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for easy meal prep throughout the week.

Ingredient Notes:

• Cauliflower head: The star of the dish, cauliflower provides a meaty texture and absorbs the flavors of the seasonings.
• Olive oil: Used to coat the cauliflower steaks and help them crisp up in the oven.
• Grated parmesan: Adds a nutty and salty flavor to the cauliflower steaks.
• Garlic, paprika, onion powder, salt, and chili pepper flakes: These seasonings create a flavorful coating for the cauliflower.
• Freshly grated parmesan cheese: Sprinkled on top of the cauliflower steaks for an extra cheesy finish.
• Optional Garnish: Fresh chives, chopped, add a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
• Avocado Dip: Avocado, scallions, lime juice, jalapeño, olive oil, grated parmesan (or nutritional yeast), parsley, water, salt, and pepper combine to create a creamy and zesty dip for the cauliflower steaks.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Slice the cauliflower into 1-inch steaks and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, grated parmesan, garlic, paprika, onion powder, salt, and chili pepper flakes.
4. Brush the cauliflower steaks with the olive oil mixture, making sure to coat them evenly.
5. Bake the cauliflower steaks for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.
6. Sprinkle freshly grated parmesan cheese on top of the cauliflower steaks and garnish with fresh chives.
7. In a blender or food processor, combine all the ingredients for the avocado dip and blend until smooth.
8. Serve the crispy parmesan cauliflower steaks with the avocado dip on the side.

Helpful Tips:

• For extra crispy cauliflower steaks, try broiling them for a few minutes at the end of the cooking time.
• Feel free to customize the seasonings to suit your taste preferences.
• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Expert Tips for the Best Results:

1. Make sure to slice the cauliflower into even steaks to ensure they cook evenly.
2. Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet, as this can prevent the cauliflower steaks from crisping up properly.

Serving Suggestions:

These Crispy Parmesan Cauliflower Steaks pair well with a side salad, roasted vegetables, or a grain dish like quinoa or couscous. Serve them with a glass of crisp white wine or a refreshing cucumber mint lemonade for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Tips:

To store leftovers, place the cauliflower steaks in an airtight container in the fridge. When ready to reheat, place them on a baking sheet and bake in a 350°F oven until heated through. The avocado dip can be stored separately and stirred before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I use frozen cauliflower for this recipe?

• While fresh cauliflower is recommended for the best texture, you can use frozen cauliflower steaks. Just be sure to thaw and pat them dry before seasoning and baking.

1. How can I make this recipe vegan?

• Simply omit the parmesan cheese and use nutritional yeast instead for a vegan-friendly option.

1. Can I grill the cauliflower steaks instead of baking them?

• Yes, you can grill the cauliflower steaks for a smoky flavor. Just make sure to oil the grill grates and cook over medium-high heat for 5-6 minutes per side.

1. Can I make the avocado dip ahead of time?

• The avocado dip can be made up to a day in advance and stored in the fridge. Just give it a stir before serving.

Conclusion:

These Crispy Parmesan Cauliflower Steaks are a delicious and versatile dish that is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation. Try them out for your next meal and enjoy the crispy, cheesy goodness with the creamy avocado dip. Don’t forget to share your feedback and any creative twists you add to this recipe!

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