Description
This Roasted Cauliflower Steaks recipe features thick, tender cauliflower slices seasoned with a flavorful blend of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika, then roasted at a high temperature to achieve perfectly caramelized edges and a golden brown crust. It’s an easy, delicious way to enjoy cauliflower as a main or side dish, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
Cauliflower Steaks
- 2 heads cauliflower
- 1 teaspoon (5 g) kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ cup (60 ml) olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chopped parsley
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Adjust the oven rack to the lower third position and preheat the oven to 500ºF (260ºC). This high heat is essential to getting those caramelized edges while keeping the cauliflower tender inside.
- Prepare the Cauliflower Steaks: Remove the outer green leaves from the cauliflower heads and trim the stem. Slice each head in half lengthwise through the center, then cut 1½-inch thick steaks from each half. Larger heads may yield 4 to 8 total pieces. Trim off any loose florets not attached to the stem and arrange the steaks on a rimmed baking sheet.
- Make the Seasoning Blend: In a small bowl, combine kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. This simple mix enhances the natural flavors without overpowering them.
- Season the Steaks: Drizzle olive oil on both sides of each cauliflower steak. Evenly sprinkle the seasoning blend on both sides—about ¼ teaspoon per side—to ensure consistent flavor throughout.
- Initial Covered Roasting: Cover the baking sheet tightly with foil and bake for 5 minutes. This step steams the cauliflower to tenderize it before caramelizing.
- Roast Uncovered and Flip: Remove the foil and roast for 10 minutes. Then carefully flip each steak and continue roasting uncovered for 6 to 8 minutes more until a golden brown crust forms.
- Garnish and Serve: Transfer the roasted cauliflower steaks to a serving platter and sprinkle with chopped parsley for a fresh, colorful finish.
Notes
- Use a sharp knife to cut cauliflower steaks cleanly and avoid breaking the florets.
- If your cauliflower is smaller, you may end up with fewer steaks; adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Olive oil can be substituted with avocado oil for a higher smoke point.
- For extra flavor, add a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.
- This recipe works great as a vegetarian main dish or a hearty side.
