This Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower reinvents ordinary cauliflower by combining it with marinara sauce and gooey gooey mozzarella, creating a plant-based variation reminiscent of Chicken Parmesan. This savory delight is the perfect way to elevate your veggie game for a busy weeknight dinner or any occasion.
Deliciously Cheesy Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower Recipe
Are you searching for a delectable and satisfying vegetable dish that’s quick to prepare and loaded with flavor? This Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower transforms ordinary cauliflower into a culinary masterpiece with a combination of roasted cauliflower, savory marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese.
It’s a plant-based twist of the classic Italian Chicken Parmesan that is always a crowd-pleaser and perfect for any occasion. Incorporate this Parmesan Cauliflower into your cooking repertoire for a delightful, cheesy treat that’s both simple and impressive. Your taste buds will thank you, and your guests will be asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Cauliflower: A versatile and nutrient-packed cruciferous vegetable.
- Avocado Oil or Olive Oil: Adds richness and helps achieve a crispy texture.
- Kosher or Coarse Sea Salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the cauliflower.
- Cracked Black Pepper: Provides a hint of warmth and depth.
- Italian Seasoning: Infuses a medley of aromatic herbs for an authentic taste.
- Marinara Sauce: Choose from your own homemade marinara sauce recipe or your favorite store-bought brand for a burst of tomato goodness.
- Fresh Vegan Mozzarella-Style Cheese: Delivers that irresistible gooeyness. Choose a high-quality brand such as Violife. Regular works too if you’re not dairy-free.
- Seasoned Gluten-Free Panko Crumbs: Adds a delightful crunch (gluten-free or regular).
- Shredded/Grated Dairy-Free Parmesan Cheese: Elevates the dish with its distinct, savory flavor. hoose a high-quality brand such as Violife. Regular works too if you’re not dairy-free.
- Fresh Thyme and Basil: Offers a burst of freshness and herbaceous notes.
- Black Pepper and Chili Flakes: For a final touch of heat and spice.
Instructions: How to make Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower
- Preheat the Oven: Set it to 425 degrees F for optimal roasting.
- Prepare the Cauliflower Steaks:
- Slice the cauliflower into 1-inch thick steaks.
- Place on a baking sheet and generously coat with oil.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Roast to Perfection:
- Roast for 15 minutes until the cauliflower is golden and slightly crispy.
- Spoon marinara sauce onto each steak.
- Sprinkle with parmesan, and top with mozzarella slices.
- Bake for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and irresistible.
Garnish and Serve:- Transfer the cauliflower to a plate or platter.
- Garnish with breadcrumbs, fresh thyme, basil, parmesan, and a sprinkle of chili flakes and black pepper.
Tips for Success:
- Oil: Ensure the cauliflower is well-coated with oil for a crispy exterior.
- Uniform Slices: Aim for consistent 1-inch thick cauliflower slices to ensure even cooking.
- Preheat Thoroughly: Allow the oven to preheat completely for optimal roasting results.
- Crispy Goodness: For an extra crispy texture, broil the cauliflower for a couple of minutes after melting the cheese.
- Seasoning: Customize the seasoning to your liking for a personalized flavor profile.
- Cooking time: Keep an eye on the cauliflower during the final bake to prevent burning.
Serving Suggestions:
- Appetizer Delight: Serve as a tempting appetizer for your next gathering.
- Cauliflower Sandwich: Layer the cheesy cauliflower between bread for a gourmet sandwich.
- Pasta Pairing: Toss the cauliflower with your favorite pasta for a hearty main course.
- Protein: Serve as a flavorful side dish alongside grilled chicken or fish.
- Salad: Pair with a fresh salad for a wholesome vegetarian meal.
Variations and Substitutions:
- Cheese: Experiment with different cheese varieties for a unique twist.
- Gluten-Free: Swap regular panko for a gluten-free alternative.
- Spice: For a spicier kick, increase the amount of chili flakes.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or oregano for diverse flavor profiles.
- Vegan Twist: Use dairy-free cheese and skip the Parmesan for a vegan-friendly option.
- Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle a balsamic reduction over the cauliflower for a sweet and tangy kick.
Storage and Freezer Instructions:
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: To maintain the crunchiness, reheat in the oven rather than the microwave.
- Freezer: To freeze, individually wrap cauliflower steaks and store in a freezer-friendly bag for up to 2 months. If freezing, consider adding the cheese after reheating for better texture.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):
Q: Can I use frozen cauliflower for this recipe? A: While fresh cauliflower is recommended for the best texture, you can use frozen cauliflower, but be sure to thaw and pat it dry before roasting.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time? A: Yes, you can roast the cauliflower ahead of time and add the cheese and toppings just before serving. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes to regain crispiness.
Q: What can I substitute for marinara sauce? A: Try using pesto, sun-dried tomato spread, or a garlic-infused olive oil for a unique twist.
Q: How can I make this dish spicier? A: Increase the amount of chili flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
Q: Can I air fry instead of roasting in the oven? A: Absolutely! Air fry at 375 degrees F, adjusting the time as needed until the cauliflower is golden and the cheese is melted.
Q: What wine pairs well with Parmesan Cauliflower? A: A light, crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a buttery Chardonnay complements the richness of the dish.
More cauliflower recipes you will love:
This Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower reinvents ordinary cauliflower by combining it with marinara sauce and gooey gooey mozzarella, creating a plant-based variation reminiscent of Chicken Parmesan. This savory delight is the perfect way to elevate your veggie game for a busy weeknight dinner or any occasion.
- 1 large head cauliflower , stem trimmed and sliced into 1-inch thick slices
- 2 tbsp avocado oil or olive oil
- kosher or coarse sea salt , to taste
- cracked black pepper , to taste
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 cup marinara sauce of choice
- 6 —8 ounces fresh dairy-free mozzarella-style cheese , sliced (such as Violife - regular works too if you're not gluten-free)
- 2-3 tbsp seasoned gluten-free panko crumbs , you can also use finely crushed gluten-free / grain-free crackers mixed with a little bit of Italian seasoning - regular panko crumbs work too if you're not gluten-free
- 2-3 tablespoons shredded / grated dairy-free parmesan cheese , for topping (such as Violife - regular works too if you're not gluten-free)
- a little bit of fresh thyme , for topping
- fresh basil , for topping
- a tiny bit of black pepper , for garnish
- a tiny sprinkle of chili flakes . for topping (leave out if sensitive to spice)
- Slice the cauliflower from the top down, into 1-inch thick slices. Place the cauliflower on a baking sheet. Drizzle or brush with oil, coating the steaks well. Season / sprinkle with salt, black pepper and Italian seasoning evenly over the slices, rubbing into the steaks if needed.
- Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F.
- Roast the cauliflower for 15 minutes. After 15 minutes, spoon some marinara sauce (about 3-4 tbsp) on each cauliflower steak, sprinkle with parmesan then top with 1-2 mozzarella slices. Bake for 15 more minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and melted.
- Remove the cauliflower from the oven and transfer to a large plate / platter.
Garnish with breadcrumbs, fresh thyme, fresh basil, a sprinkle of parmesan and a tiny bit of chili flakes and black pepper.
How to store: Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
How to freeze: Freeze the cabbage steaks individually in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They'll keep well for up to three months.
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