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Crispy Baked Cauliflower Steaks

Crispy Baked Cauliflower Steaks

If you are searching for a way to make vegetables the star of the show, these Crispy Baked Cauliflower Steaks are the perfect solution. This recipe takes the viral trend of parmesan-crusted vegetables and applies it to thick, hearty cauliflower slices for a result that is golden, crunchy, and incredibly savory.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 2 steaks
Course: Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 344
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Cauliflower Steaks
  • 1 large head cauliflower
  • 1/4 cup high-quality olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese for the marinade
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon chili pepper flakes
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese for the crust
  • Fresh chives chopped (optional garnish)
Avocado Dip
  • 1 ripe avocado
  • 2 scallions roughly chopped
  • 1/2 lime juiced
  • 1 jalapeño deseeded and chopped
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon grated parmesan or nutritional yeast
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley
  • 1/3 cup water to adjust consistency
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Baking Sheet
  • Pastry Brush
  • Mini Food Processor

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Oven and Cauliflower: Preheat your oven to 450°F. Wash the cauliflower head and dry it thoroughly with a kitchen towel, as moisture is the enemy of crispiness. Slice the head in half, then slice those halves again to create thick, steak-like slabs. Place them on a large baking sheet.
    1 large head cauliflower
  2. Create the Seasoning Rub: In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the 1/4 cup of olive oil, 2 tablespoons of grated parmesan, minced garlic, paprika, onion powder, salt, and chili pepper flakes until well combined.
    1/4 cup high-quality olive oil, 2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese, 2 cloves garlic, 1/2 teaspoon paprika, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon chili pepper flakes
  3. Coat the Steaks: Use a pastry brush to apply the oil and spice mixture generously to the front, back, and sides of each cauliflower steak.
  4. Apply the Parmesan Crust: Spread the 1/2 cup of freshly grated parmesan onto a flat plate. Press one side of each seasoned cauliflower steak into the cheese, then place them parm-side down onto the baking sheet.
    1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
  5. Bake to Perfection: Place the tray in the oven and bake at 450°F for 10 minutes. After 10 minutes, reduce the oven temperature to 425°F and continue baking for 20 to 25 minutes. The exact time will depend on the thickness of your steaks; you are looking for a deep golden-brown crust.
  6. Prepare the Avocado Dip: While the cauliflower roasts, combine the avocado, scallions, lime juice, jalapeño, olive oil, parmesan (or nutritional yeast), parsley, and water in a mini food processor. Blend until completely smooth, adding a splash more water if you prefer a thinner consistency. Season with salt and pepper.
    1 ripe avocado, 2 scallions, 1/2 lime, 1 jalapeño, 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 tablespoon grated parmesan or nutritional yeast, 1/4 cup fresh parsley, 1/3 cup water, Salt and pepper
  7. Serve: Remove the steaks from the oven and serve them crispy-side up. Garnish with fresh chives and serve alongside the avocado dip.
    Fresh chives

Notes

To ensure your steaks turn out perfectly, always use freshly grated parmesan cheese as pre-shaken versions contain anti-caking agents that prevent melting. Additionally, avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure the vegetables roast rather than steam.