Description
These Roasted Parmesan Cauliflower Bites are a crispy, flavorful side dish or snack featuring tender cauliflower florets roasted to golden perfection and coated with savory Parmesan cheese. Perfectly seasoned with garlic, onion powder, and freshly ground black pepper, these bites are healthy, easy to prepare, and make a delicious low-carb alternative to traditional snacks.
Ingredients
Scale
Cauliflower and Seasonings
- 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Toppings and Garnish
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.
- Prepare the Cauliflower: Wash and thoroughly dry the cauliflower head. Cut it into bite-sized florets so they cook evenly and are easy to eat.
- Season the Cauliflower: Place the cauliflower florets in a large mixing bowl. Add olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Toss well, ensuring each floret is evenly coated with the seasoning mixture for maximum flavor.
- Roast the Cauliflower: Arrange the seasoned cauliflower florets in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Place in the preheated oven and roast for 20-25 minutes, flipping the florets halfway through cooking to ensure they brown evenly. Roast until the florets are golden and crispy around the edges.
- Add Parmesan: Remove the roasted cauliflower from the oven. While still hot, immediately sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the florets. Toss gently so the cheese melts and coats each piece, adding a savory, cheesy crust.
- Garnish and Serve: Optionally, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the cauliflower bites for added color and freshness. Serve warm as a tasty side dish, a healthy snack, or an appetizer alongside your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
- You can substitute Parmesan with a vegan cheese alternative to make this recipe dairy-free.
- For extra crispiness, broil for 1-2 minutes after adding the Parmesan cheese, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- Cauliflower can be seasoned with additional spices such as smoked paprika or chili flakes for a different flavor profile.
- This dish pairs well with ranch dressing, garlic aioli, or marinara sauce for dipping.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven to maintain crispness.
