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A serving of one cauliflower steak over pesto in a white plate with a knife and fork on the side

Cauliflower Steaks

These Cauliflower Steaks are juicy, tender roasted cauliflower seasoned with garlic, smoked paprika and served with a fresh walnut pesto. They are the perfect healthy vegetarian main or side to any meal! Gluten-free, vegan, dairy-free, low carb, keto, paleo and Whole30 friendly.

Course Side Dish
Cuisine American
Keyword cauliflower steaks, roasted cauliflower
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 101 kcal
Author Kelly

Ingredients

  • 1 large cauliflower head
  • 2 tbsp avocado oil or olive oil
  • ½ tsp Kosher salt or sea salt or to taste
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp onion powder
  • Cracked black pepper to taste

Walnut parsley pesto:

  • 1/2 cup walnuts
  • 1 cup packed fresh parsley
  • ¼ cup vegan parmesan or nutritional yeast
  • 1 garlic clove
  • ½ lemon
  • ¼ cup avocado oil or olive oil
  • ½ tsp salt
  • Cracked black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400F. Grease or line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper for easier clean-up. Set aside.
  2. Remove the outer leaves from the cauliflower and cut the cauliflower into 1.5 inch slices. Place the cauliflower on the baking sheet.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together the oil, salt, pepper, paprika, onion and garlic powder until combined. Brush the seasoning onto the cauliflower steaks.
  4. Place into the oven and roast for 30-35 minutes, or until crispy and golden on the edges, flipping halfway through.

    5 slices of roasted cauliflower steaks on a baking sheet
  5. While the cauliflower is roasting, make the pesto by placing all the ingredients in a food processor and pulse until combined. Taste and adjust seasonings and add a splash of water, only as needed until desired consistency is reached.
    Top view of pesto in a white bowl with a spoon
  6. Remove cauliflower from the oven and allow to cool for 5 minutes. Serve cauliflower steaks with the pesto and enjoy.
    A serving of one cauliflower steak over pesto in a white plate with a fork on the side

Air Fryer Method

  1. If your air fryer requires preheating, preheat to 375F. Place the seasoned cauliflower steaks in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure no to overlap.

    Air Fry for 8 minutes, then use tongs to flip. Air Fry for another 7 minutes or until tender, golden and cooked to your liking.

Grilling Method

  1. Preheat your grill to medium heat. Place the seasoned cauliflower steaks on the grill and cover. Cook for 5-6 minutes then use tongs to gently flip. Cook for another 5 minutes, or until tender, golden and cooked to your liking.

Recipe Notes

*Nutritional info is calculated without the pesto. 

 

How to store and reheat

Leftover cauliflower should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge once it has cooled completely. It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. Reheat your cauliflower in a 350°F oven until it's hot and the cheese is bubbling.

How to freeze

Place the cooled cauliflower on a large baking sheet and freeze it for at least 20 minutes. Then, transfer it to a large resealable freezer bag and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat it straight from frozen according to the following instructions.

When you're ready to reheat your frozen cauliflower, place it in a single layer in your Air Fryer basket. Set the temperature to 365°F and heat the cauliflower for 7-9 minutes, or until it reaches your desired crispiness. You will have to work in batches. Don't let the frozen cauliflower sit at room temperature while you're working through reheating it.

Nutrition Facts
Cauliflower Steaks
Amount Per Serving (1 serving)
Calories 101 Calories from Fat 63
% Daily Value*
Fat 7g11%
Carbohydrates 8g3%
Fiber 3g12%
Sugar 3g3%
Protein 3g6%
* Nutrition facts are provided as a courtesy using the WPRM recipe calculator. It is best to make your own calculations to ensure accuracy. We expressly disclaim any and all liability of any kind with respect to any act or omission wholly or in part in reliance on anything contained in this website. Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.