You ever have one of those days where you just crave something crispy, but you also want to feel a little virtuous? These Parmesan Cauliflower Bites are like the surprise twist in a movie you didn’t see coming—unexpectedly delightful.
They’re crunchy, cheesy, and might just be the best thing to happen to cauliflower since, well, ever. Imagine your favorite comfort food, but in veggie form, and a little healthier (or not—who’s counting?
).
Steps
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Cut the cauliflower vertically into 1-inch thick slices and lay them out on a baking sheet. Brush or drizzle olive oil over the slices, then season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Roast the cauliflower in the oven for 15 minutes until they start to brown slightly. Afterward, spoon marinara sauce over the roasted slices and place a slice of fresh mozzarella cheese on top of each.
- Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for another 15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- While the cauliflower bakes, melt butter in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add minced garlic and sauté briefly, then incorporate bread crumbs and stir until they turn golden, about 2 to 3 minutes.
- Once the cauliflower is ready, remove it from the oven and sprinkle with the prepared garlic butter breadcrumbs, fresh basil, and a dash of parmesan cheese. Serve hot with a knife and fork, possibly accompanied by garlic bread.
Ingredients
- 1 head of cauliflower, sliced into 1-inch thick pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 6 ounces fresh mozzarella, sliced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs
- Fresh basil, for garnish
- Grated parmesan cheese, for sprinkling
FAQ
- Can this dish be made ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare the cauliflower slices and the garlic butter breadcrumbs in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, assemble the dish with marinara and cheese, and bake as directed.
- What can I serve with Cauliflower Parmesan to make it a full meal?
- This dish pairs well with a side of pasta, a fresh green salad, or a serving of beans for added substance. A glass of chilled wine like pinot grigio also complements it nicely.
- How do I ensure the cauliflower doesn’t become too mushy?
- To prevent the cauliflower from becoming too soft, make sure to slice it into thick pieces and roast it initially to get a bit of charring and crispy edges before adding the sauce and cheese.
- Is there an alternative to using fresh mozzarella?
- If fresh mozzarella is not available, you can use shredded mozzarella or any other cheese that melts well, such as provolone or fontina.
- Can I make this dish vegan?
- To make a vegan version, use dairy-free cheese alternatives and substitute the butter in the breadcrumbs with olive oil or a plant-based butter. Ensure the marinara sauce is also vegan-friendly.
Tips
- Slice the cauliflower into thick, 1-inch pieces to ensure they can hold plenty of sauce and cheese.
- Roast the cauliflower slices initially to achieve a slightly charred and crispy edge before adding the marinara and cheese.
- Finish with garlic butter breadcrumbs and fresh basil for added texture and flavor.
- Pair with a simple side like pasta, vegetables, or a green salad for a complete meal.
Equipment
- Baking Sheet – Essential for roasting the cauliflower slices.
- Skillet – Needed to make the garlic butter breadcrumbs.
- Pastry Brush – Useful for brushing olive oil on the cauliflower.
- Chef’s Knife – For slicing the cauliflower into thick pieces.
- Cutting Board – To safely slice the cauliflower.
- Oven Thermometer – Helpful to ensure the oven is at the correct temperature.
