Oven-baked cauliflower is a delicious and healthy dish that’s perfect as a snack, appetizer, or side dish. This recipe features cauliflower florets coated in a flavorful breadcrumb mixture and baked to crispy perfection. The addition of Parmesan cheese and herbs elevates the taste, making it a favorite for everyone.
Ingredients
- 1.3 kg cauliflower
- 150 g panko breadcrumbs
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 100 g flour
- 3 eggs, beaten
- 5 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian herbs
- 2 teaspoons parsley
- 50 g grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.
- Cut the Cauliflower: Wash the cauliflower and cut it into bite-sized florets.
Prepare the Coatings
- Breadcrumb Mixture: In a bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, minced garlic, Italian herbs, parsley, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Flour Mixture: Place the flour in a shallow dish.
- Egg Mixture: In another shallow dish, beat the eggs.
Coat the Cauliflower
- Dredge in Flour: Lightly coat each cauliflower floret with flour, shaking off any excess.
- Dip in Egg: Dip the floured florets into the beaten eggs, ensuring they are fully coated.
- Coat with Breadcrumbs: Roll the egg-coated florets in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to ensure the breadcrumbs adhere well.
Bake the Cauliflower
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the coated cauliflower florets on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
- Drizzle with Olive Oil: Drizzle the florets with extra virgin olive oil to help them crisp up in the oven.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cauliflower is golden brown and crispy, turning once halfway through baking to ensure even cooking.
Serve
- Cool Slightly: Remove the baked cauliflower from the oven and let it cool slightly on the baking sheet.
- Serve: Transfer to a serving platter and enjoy hot. These can be served with your favorite dipping sauce, such as marinara, ranch, or aioli.
Conclusion
Oven-baked cauliflower is a flavorful and crispy dish that’s sure to please everyone. This recipe is easy to prepare and results in a deliciously crunchy exterior with a tender inside. Perfect for any occasion, this baked cauliflower is a great way to enjoy a healthy and tasty snack or side dish. Enjoy!