Crispy Parmesan Cauliflower Steaks are a delicious and healthy vegetarian dish that is perfect for a low-carb meal or as a side to your main course. The cauliflower is sliced into “steaks,” brushed with a savory olive oil and garlic mixture, and then baked until golden and crispy, topped with freshly grated parmesan. For a delightful twist, it is served with a creamy avocado dip that complements the crispy cauliflower perfectly.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Cauliflower Steaks:

• 1 head cauliflower

• 1/4 cup olive oil

• 2 tbsp grated parmesan

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/2 tsp paprika

• 1/2 tsp onion powder

• 1/4 tsp chili flakes (optional)

• 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese

For the Avocado Dip (optional):

• 1 avocado, halved

• 2 scallions, chopped

• 1/2 lime, juiced

• 1 jalapeño, deseeded and chopped

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tbsp grated parmesan (or nutritional yeast)

• 1/4 cup parsley

• 1/3 cup water

• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Dry the cauliflower and slice it into thick “steaks.”

2. Prepare the Garlic-Parmesan Mixture:
   In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, 2 tbsp grated parmesan, garlic, paprika, onion powder, and chili flakes.

3. Coat the Cauliflower:
   Brush the cauliflower steaks with the olive oil and garlic mixture, ensuring the front, back, and sides are covered. Dip one side of each steak into the freshly grated parmesan cheese and place them parmesan-side down on the baking sheet.

4. Bake the Cauliflower:
   Bake for 10 minutes at 450°F, then reduce the temperature to 425°F and bake for another 20-25 minutes, depending on the thickness of the steaks. The cauliflower should be golden and crispy.

5. Make the Avocado Dip:
   In a mini food processor, blend together avocado, scallions, lime juice, jalapeño, olive oil, parmesan (or nutritional yeast), parsley, and water until smooth. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

6. Serve:
   Serve the crispy cauliflower steaks with the avocado dip and enjoy!

Nutrients

• Calories: 344 kcal (with avocado dip)

• Carbohydrates: 16g

• Protein: 9g

• Fat: 29g

• Saturated Fat: 6g

• Fiber: 7g

• Sugar: 4g

These crispy parmesan cauliflower steaks are a fantastic and tasty way to enjoy cauliflower, and the avocado dip adds a creamy and zesty complement to the dish. Enjoy!

The Magic of Cauliflower Steaks

The concept of cauliflower steaks has become increasingly popular in recent years, especially as plant-based diets have gained traction. Slicing cauliflower into thick “steaks” allows the vegetable to take on a hearty, meaty texture while still retaining its nutritious properties. When roasted, the cauliflower develops a crispy exterior while maintaining its natural tenderness inside.

This method of preparation also makes cauliflower steaks an excellent choice for anyone looking to reduce carb intake or follow a gluten-free diet. The rich, savory garlic and Parmesan flavors make this dish a satisfying alternative to traditional meat-based steaks, offering a light yet flavorful option that doesn’t sacrifice taste.

The Importance of Seasoning: Garlic, Parmesan, and Spices

The secret to making cauliflower steaks irresistible lies in the seasoning. The cauliflower is brushed with a mixture of olive oil, garlic, paprika, onion powder, and chili flakes (optional), creating a savory base that infuses the cauliflower with rich flavors. The olive oil ensures the cauliflower becomes golden and crispy during roasting, while the garlic and paprika contribute a fragrant and slightly smoky depth. Onion powder adds a mellow savory element, and the chili flakes bring a gentle heat that balances the richness of the Parmesan.

For the perfect finishing touch, the cauliflower steaks are coated with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. This adds a crispy, cheesy crust that not only enhances the flavor but also gives the cauliflower steaks an appealing golden hue. The Parmesan brings a nutty, umami-packed note to the dish, making each bite even more satisfying.

Perfecting the Texture: Crispy on the Outside, Tender Inside

The key to achieving the perfect cauliflower steak is getting the right balance of crispy exterior and tender interior. After brushing the cauliflower steaks with the garlic-Parmesan mixture, they’re baked at a high temperature of 450°F (230°C) for the first 10 minutes to help them begin to crisp up. Then, the temperature is reduced to 425°F (220°C) for the remaining 20-25 minutes, allowing the cauliflower to continue roasting until it’s golden and crisp on the outside while remaining tender inside.

This two-step cooking process ensures that the cauliflower steaks develop that perfect golden, crispy crust without overcooking and drying out the inside. The result is a dish that is both texturally satisfying and packed with flavor.

The Avocado Dip: Creamy and Zesty

To complement the crispy cauliflower steaks, the creamy avocado dip adds a refreshing and tangy element to the dish. This dip is made with ripe avocado, scallions, lime juice, jalapeño, olive oil, Parmesan (or nutritional yeast for a vegan option), and parsley. The combination of avocado and lime juice creates a creamy base with a bright, zesty finish. The jalapeño provides a mild heat, while the scallions and parsley add freshness and depth.

Blending these ingredients in a mini food processor creates a smooth, velvety dip that pairs beautifully with the crispy cauliflower steaks. The avocado dip serves as the perfect contrast to the rich, savory cauliflower, and its creamy texture enhances each bite. Whether you enjoy it as a dip or drizzle it over the steaks, it’s a delightful addition that takes the dish to the next level.

Serving and Enjoying the Dish

Crispy Parmesan Cauliflower Steaks are versatile and can be enjoyed in several ways. You can serve them as a light main dish for lunch or dinner, or pair them with other vegetables or protein sources for a well-rounded meal. The avocado dip can be served on the side for dipping or spooned generously over the steaks, adding extra flavor and richness.

For a complete meal, serve these cauliflower steaks with a refreshing side salad or grilled vegetables. The contrast of the warm, crispy cauliflower and the cool, creamy avocado dip makes this dish a perfect choice for both casual meals and elegant gatherings.

Conclusion

Crispy Parmesan Cauliflower Steaks with Avocado Dip are a delicious and satisfying dish that highlights the versatility of cauliflower. With golden, crispy steaks brushed with a savory garlic-Parmesan mixture and topped with a creamy avocado dip, this dish is a perfect combination of textures and flavors. It’s a great option for those following low-carb, vegetarian, or gluten-free diets, but it’s also sure to be enjoyed by anyone who loves a hearty, flavorful meal. Whether you’re serving it as a main or as a side, this dish is easy to prepare and full of taste, making it a wonderful addition to your recipe repertoire.