Description
Cauliflower Parmesan Steaks showcase Mediterranean flavors with golden-crusted cauliflower slabs roasted to crispy perfection. Generous Parmesan coating and herb-infused olive oil elevate this plant-based dish, promising a delightful experience you’ll savor with each delectable bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1 large head cauliflower, stem trimmed and cut vertically into 1 inch (2.5 cm) planks
- 1 ½ cups (360 milliliters) marinara sauce
- 1 cup (240 milliliters) shredded mozzarella cheese
Cheese and Seasonings:
- ¼ cup (60 milliliters) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup (6 grams) basil leaves, torn if large
- Crushed red pepper flakes
Oils and Seasonings:
- 3 tablespoons (45 milliliters) extra-virgin olive oil
- Kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C) and prepare a rimmed baking sheet by lightly greasing it with cooking spray or olive oil.
- Cut the whole cauliflower into thick 1-inch (2.5 centimeters) steaks, ensuring each slice maintains its structural integrity with the core intact.
- Carefully brush both sides of each cauliflower steak with olive oil, using a culinary pastry brush to ensure even coverage.
- Generously season the cauliflower steaks with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, focusing on creating an even distribution of seasoning.
- Arrange the cauliflower steaks in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not overlapping to promote even roasting.
- Roast the cauliflower in the preheated oven for approximately 30 to 35 minutes, turning them once halfway through the cooking process to achieve golden-brown edges and tender texture.
- Remove the baking sheet from the oven and spread a generous layer of marinara sauce over each cauliflower steak.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese and half of the grated Parmesan cheese evenly across the sauced steaks.
- Switch the oven to broil and return the baking sheet to the top rack, broiling for 2 to 3 minutes until the cheese becomes bubbly and develops golden-brown spots.
- Transfer the cauliflower Parmesan steaks to serving plates and garnish with remaining Parmesan cheese, fresh basil leaves, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for added heat and flavor.
Notes
- Maximize flavor by cutting thick, uniform cauliflower steaks to ensure even roasting and beautiful presentation.
- Use high-heat roasting technique to develop golden, caramelized edges that enhance the vegetable’s natural sweetness.
- Select fresh, firm cauliflower heads with tight, creamy white florets for the best texture and appearance.
- Brush generously with olive oil to help create crispy, well-seasoned exterior while keeping the inside tender.
- Customize heat levels by adjusting red pepper flakes, making this dish perfect for spice lovers or mild palate preferences.
- Sprinkle fresh basil just before serving to add bright, aromatic freshness that complements the rich, cheesy flavors.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 38 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Roasting, Broiling
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 520 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 10 g
- Cholesterol: 25 mg