Directions to follow

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Start by removing the leaves from the cauliflower and trimming the stem while keeping the core intact.
3. Slice the cauliflower head into 3/4–1 inch (2 cm) thick ‘steaks.’
4. Brush both sides of the cauliflower steaks with olive oil and season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
5. Place the seasoned steaks on a lined baking sheet.
6. Roast in the oven for 20–25 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time, until they are tender and golden brown around the edges.
7. In the last 5 minutes of roasting, combine the grated Parmesan, parsley, lemon zest, and optional chili flakes. Sprinkle this mixture over the steaks to allow the cheese to melt and lightly brown.
8. Warm and serve these delectable cauliflower steaks as a side dish or a satisfying vegetarian main course.

Best ways to enjoy it

There are countless ways to elevate your Garlic Parmesan Cauliflower Steaks. Serve them on a vibrant platter with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color. Pair them with a creamy dip, a fresh garden salad, or even alongside grilled meats for a contrast of flavors. They also work beautifully with a side of quinoa or couscous for a complete meal.

Keeping leftovers fresh

If you have leftover Garlic Parmesan Cauliflower Steaks (though it might be hard to resist finishing them), here are some effective storage tips. Allow them to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them back in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to regain their crispy texture. If you’d like to freeze them, wrap the cooled steaks tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Always ensure safe food handling practices are followed!

Helpful cooking tips

• To get perfectly roasted cauliflower, make sure the steaks are cut evenly. This ensures they cook at the same rate.
• Don’t skip the flipping step! Halfway through roasting, flipping them helps achieve that beautiful golden crust on both sides.
• Use fresh or frozen cauliflower, but fresh typically delivers better results in terms of texture and flavor.

Creative twists

For variations, consider trying different spices like curry powder or Italian herbs for a flavor twist. You could also swap in different cheeses such as feta or blue cheese for a bold flavor change. For a healthier version, experiment with air frying instead of roasting. Additional toppings, like a drizzle of balsamic reduction or a sprinkle of nuts, can also enhance this dish in delightful new ways.

FAQs

How long does it take to prepare Garlic Parmesan Cauliflower Steaks?

The preparation and roasting time is around 30 to 35 minutes, making it a quick and easy dish.

Can I make this dish vegan?

Absolutely! Simply substitute the Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast or any vegan cheese alternative.

How should I store leftover cauliflower steaks?

Allow them to cool, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven for best results.

Garlic Parmesan Cauliflower Steaks are sure to be your new favorite vegetable dish—so give this recipe a try and experience the deliciousness yourself!