Cauliflower steaks are a game-changer. They're hearty, satisfying, and just plain delicious. We've all grown up knowing cauliflower as a side dish, but now, it's time to let it take the spotlight. It's no longer the underdog of the vegetable world, but the main course, the main event, the showstopper.
Here's a recipe that will change the way you look at this humble vegetable. It's a versatile dish that can be tweaked to your taste and dietary preferences, and is sure to impress your guests.
Why This Recipe Works
The first thing to love about this recipe is its simplicity. Cauliflower steaks involve minimal ingredients and steps, making it an easy meal to put together. You probably already have all you need right in your kitchen. And while it's simple, it's also packed with flavor. Roasting cauliflower enhances its natural sweetness, and adding spices or a marinade elevates it to a whole new level. You can experiment with your favorite flavors, be it tangy, spicy, or herbaceous.
Secondly, this recipe is a winner because of its health benefits. Cauliflower is a nutrient-dense vegetable, rich in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. It's low in calories, making it a fantastic choice for those keeping an eye on their intake. It's also versatile for many dietary preferences – it's naturally gluten-free, can be easily made vegan or vegetarian, and fits well into low-carb and keto diets. By cooking it as a steak, you get a satisfying, filling dish without the heaviness of meat. These cauliflower steaks are not just a healthy alternative; they're a delicious choice in their own right. With this recipe, you're getting the best of both worlds - flavor and nutrition.
Ingredients
Cauliflower:You'll need one large head. Choose one that's heavy for its size with a clean, creamy white color and no blemishes. A substitute could be broccoli, although it has a different flavor profile.
Olive Oil: Used for roasting the cauliflower, adding a wonderful rich flavor. You can also use avocado oil as a substitute.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are ideal for a pungent, aromatic flavor. In a pinch, you could use garlic powder or granulated garlic.
Lemon: Its juice adds a brightness to balance the earthiness of the cauliflower. You could substitute with apple cider vinegar for a tangy alternative.
Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and your choice of herbs/spices (like paprika or cayenne pepper). If you're out of seasonings, simple salt and pepper will suffice.
Tips
- Use a sharp knife to cut the cauliflower into thick "steaks", keeping the stem intact to hold the slices together.
- Don't discard the leftover cauliflower florets after slicing the steaks. They can be roasted alongside the steaks or saved for another dish.
- Roast your cauliflower at a high temperature to get a nice char and enhance its natural flavors.
- Experiment with your favorite spices and herbs to make this dish your own.
- Flip the steaks carefully during roasting to ensure they cook evenly and don't fall apart.
How to Serve
Cauliflower steaks make a versatile main or side dish, able to complement a wide variety of meals due to their hearty texture and mild flavor. They're particularly useful in vegan or vegetarian meals as a meat substitute, providing a satisfying bite that can stand up to robust flavors.
- Serve them alongside a green salad for a light, healthy meal.
- Pair with a flavorful sauce or chimichurri to brighten the dish and add complexity.
- For a heartier meal, serve the cauliflower steaks on a bed of cooked grains like quinoa or rice, or with a side of mashed potatoes.
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Cauliflower Steaks
Ingredients
- 1 large head of cauliflower
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt pepper
- Your choice of herbs/spices
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Cut the cauliflower into 1-inch thick steaks.
- Mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, and lemon juice.
- Brush both sides of each cauliflower steak with the olive oil mixture, then season with salt, pepper, and your chosen spices.
- Place the cauliflower steaks on a baking sheet and roast for about 15 minutes. Carefully flip and roast for another 15 minutes, or until tender and golden.
Nutrition
Notes
- Use a sharp knife to cut the cauliflower into thick "steaks", keeping the stem intact to hold the slices together.
- Don't discard the leftover cauliflower florets after slicing the steaks. They can be roasted alongside the steaks or saved for another dish.
- Roast your cauliflower at a high temperature to get a nice char and enhance its natural flavors.
- Experiment with your favorite spices and herbs to make this dish your own.
- Flip the steaks carefully during roasting to ensure they cook evenly and don't fall apart.