Description
Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower is a quick and easy side dish featuring bite-sized cauliflower florets coated in a flavorful mixture of olive oil, Italian breadcrumbs, garlic powder, salt, and Parmesan cheese, then baked to golden perfection. This vegetarian recipe serves as a perfect healthy snack or a tasty alternative to baked chicken nuggets.
Ingredients
Cauliflower
- 7 cups cauliflower florets, cut to bite sized pieces
Coating
- 3 to 4 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup Italian bread crumbs
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/3 cup parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 425 degrees F (220 degrees C). Line a large, rimmed baking sheet with foil and spray liberally with non-stick cooking spray. Set aside.
- Coat Cauliflower with Oil: Combine the cauliflower florets and olive oil in a large zip-close bag. Shake well to ensure all pieces are evenly coated with oil.
- Add Breading Mixture: Add Italian breadcrumbs, garlic powder, salt, and Parmesan cheese to the bag with cauliflower. Shake the bag again until all cauliflower pieces are uniformly coated. Press slightly inside the bag to help the breading adhere.
- Prepare for Baking: Pour the coated cauliflower onto the prepared baking sheet. Spray the tops with additional non-stick cooking spray to promote crispiness.
- Bake First Stage: Bake for 10 minutes in the preheated oven.
- Stir and Continue Baking: After the initial 10 minutes, stir the cauliflower to ensure even browning. Return to the oven and bake an additional 10 minutes or until the cauliflower is golden brown and tender.
- Serve: Remove from oven and serve immediately while hot. Enjoy as a side dish or a vegetarian snack.
Notes
- Use fresh cauliflower florets for best texture; avoid overripe or limp pieces.
- For a gluten-free option, substitute Italian breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Spraying the cauliflower before and during baking helps achieve a crispier crust.
- Adjust garlic powder and salt according to taste preferences.
- This dish can be served with marinara sauce or a dipping sauce of your choice.
