Cauliflower Steak (Roasted or Grilled)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cauliflower Steak recipe is not only easy to make but also packed with flavor. The olive oil and spices give the cauliflower a beautiful golden-brown crust when roasted or grilled, while the inside stays tender and juicy. Whether you’re serving it as a meat alternative or just want to enjoy a flavorful vegetable, this dish is sure to impress. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy cauliflower in a new and exciting way!

Ingredients

• 2 heads cauliflower
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp sea salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Roasted Cauliflower Steaks:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare the Cauliflower:
   • Remove the outer leaves of the cauliflower heads. Place the cauliflower on a cutting board and slice each head into about 1-inch thick “steaks” from top to bottom. You can also keep the florets intact if you prefer smaller pieces.
   • Reserve any leftover cauliflower florets for another recipe.
3. Season the Cauliflower:
   • In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, sea salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
   • Brush both sides of each cauliflower steak with the olive oil mixture, ensuring they are well-coated.
4. Roast the Cauliflower:
   • Place the cauliflower steaks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
   • Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the cauliflower is golden brown and tender.

Grilled Cauliflower Steaks:

1. Preheat the Grill:
   • Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. Prepare the Cauliflower:
   • Remove the outer leaves from the cauliflower heads and slice them into 1-inch thick steaks, as you would for roasting.
3. Season the Cauliflower:
   • Brush the cauliflower steaks with the olive oil mixture (olive oil, salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder) to ensure they are evenly coated.
4. Grill the Cauliflower:
   • Place the cauliflower steaks on the preheated grill and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until they have a nice grill mark and are tender but still firm to the bite.
   • Keep an eye on them to prevent burning, and adjust the heat as necessary.
5. Serve:
   • Once cooked, remove from the grill or oven and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe makes approximately 4 servings.
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20-25 minutes for roasting or 10-12 minutes for grilling
• Total Time: 30-35 minutes

Variations

• Add Toppings: You can top your cauliflower steaks with grated Parmesan cheese, fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for extra flavor.
• Spicy Version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes to the seasoning mixture if you like a little heat.
• Marinate the Cauliflower: For a more intense flavor, marinate the cauliflower steaks in the seasoning mix for 30 minutes to an hour before cooking.
• Curry Flavored: Use curry powder instead of paprika for an Indian-inspired twist.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover cauliflower steaks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, place the cauliflower steaks in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or reheat them on the grill for a few minutes to maintain that charred flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen cauliflower for this recipe?

While fresh cauliflower is preferred for the best texture, you can use frozen cauliflower if fresh isn’t available. Just make sure to thaw it thoroughly before cooking.

2. How thick should I cut the cauliflower steaks?

Aim for about 1-inch thick slices. If the pieces are too thin, they may fall apart during cooking, while thicker pieces may take longer to cook.

3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cauliflower steaks and season them in advance. Just refrigerate them until you’re ready to cook.

4. How do I know when the cauliflower steaks are done?

Cauliflower steaks are done when they are golden brown on the outside and tender on the inside. You can test with a fork to make sure they’re tender.

5. Can I add cheese to this recipe?

Yes, you can sprinkle cheese, like cheddar or Parmesan, on top of the cauliflower steaks in the last few minutes of roasting or grilling to melt it.

6. Can I cook cauliflower steaks in an air fryer?

Yes, you can air fry cauliflower steaks. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook the steaks for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.

7. Can I use a cast iron skillet instead of the grill or oven?

Yes, you can cook cauliflower steaks in a cast iron skillet over medium heat. It should take about 4-5 minutes per side until golden and tender.

8. Can I add other vegetables to the recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to grill or roast other vegetables alongside the cauliflower, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots.

9. How can I make these steaks more flavorful?

Marinate the cauliflower in the olive oil and spice mixture for at least 30 minutes before cooking, or add extra seasonings such as cumin, turmeric, or thyme to enhance the flavor.

10. Can I serve cauliflower steaks as a main dish?

Yes, cauliflower steaks make a great vegetarian or vegan main dish, especially when served with a grain like quinoa or rice or a flavorful sauce like tahini or yogurt-based dressing.

Conclusion

This Cauliflower Steak recipe is a simple yet flavorful way to enjoy this nutritious vegetable. Whether roasted or grilled, the cauliflower steaks are perfectly seasoned and offer a satisfying texture that will appeal to both vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. It’s a versatile recipe that you can customize with different seasonings and toppings, making it a great addition to any meal.

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