Description
Thick-cut cauliflower steaks roasted to golden perfection, seasoned with garlic, smoked paprika, and aromatic herbs. This simple yet flavorful recipe serves as a delightful vegetarian main dish or a hearty side that brings Mediterranean-inspired flavors to your table.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 large head cauliflower
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 220°C (428°F) to allow it to heat thoroughly while you prepare the cauliflower.
- Prepare the cauliflower: Remove the outer leaves of the cauliflower, keeping the core stem intact as this helps hold the slices together during roasting.
- Slice into steaks: Carefully cut the cauliflower head into thick slices about 2 to 3 cm wide, creating ‘steaks’. Handle them gently to keep the slices whole.
- Arrange on baking sheet: Lay the cauliflower steaks flat on a large baking sheet, giving space between slices for even roasting.
- Make the seasoning mixture: In a bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, garlic powder, dried oregano, cumin, salt, and black pepper, mixing well to create a flavorful oil blend.
- Brush with seasoning: Generously brush both sides of each cauliflower steak with the oil and spice mixture, ensuring all surfaces are coated.
- Roast the steaks: Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast the cauliflower for 20 minutes, allowing it to start browning and softening.
- Flip and continue roasting: Carefully flip each steak to the other side and roast for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until the cauliflower is tender and beautifully golden.
- Add Parmesan (optional): If using Parmesan, sprinkle it over the steaks during the last 3 to 5 minutes of roasting so it melts and adds a lovely cheesy crust.
- Finish with lemon and parsley: Once roasted, remove the steaks from the oven, drizzle fresh lemon juice on top, and garnish with chopped fresh parsley for brightness and color.
- Serve warm: Plate the cauliflower steaks immediately for the best texture and flavor, optionally pairing with a complementary sauce or salad.
Notes
- Choose a large, firm cauliflower head to ensure the steaks hold together during roasting.
- Outer florets may break off; roast these alongside as tasty vegetable bits.
- Serve with tahini, yogurt sauce, chimichurri, or an extra squeeze of lemon for enhanced flavor.
- For a vegan variation, simply omit the Parmesan cheese.
- Add chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the seasoning mixture for a spicy kick.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Side Dish, Vegetables
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-inspired
