Description
These Irresistibly Crispy Baked Cauliflower Bites are perfectly seasoned and roasted to golden perfection. Paired with a tangy homemade garlic sauce, they make a delicious and healthy appetizer or snack that’s easy to prepare in under 40 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Cauliflower Bites
- 1 head Cauliflower (cut into bite-sized florets)
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (or favorite oil)
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
- 1 teaspoon Onion Powder
- 1 teaspoon Paprika
- 1 teaspoon Salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper (fresh ground for better flavor)
- 1/4 cup Cornstarch (optional)
Garlic Sauce
- 1/2 cup Mayonnaise (homemade for best flavor)
- 1/4 cup Greek Yogurt or Sour Cream (for tanginess)
- 2 cloves Fresh Garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice (or lime juice)
- 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley (chopped)
- Salt and Pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Preparation Steps: Begin by rinsing and drying the cauliflower thoroughly. Cut the cauliflower into uniform bite-sized florets to ensure even cooking.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.
- Season Cauliflower: In a large mixing bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and cornstarch if using. Make sure each floret is evenly coated with the seasoning mixture.
- Roast Cauliflower: Arrange the seasoned cauliflower florets in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Roast them in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through to ensure even browning and crispiness.
- Prepare Garlic Sauce: While the cauliflower roasts, combine mayonnaise, Greek yogurt or sour cream, minced fresh garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Mix well to create a creamy, tangy garlic sauce.
- Broil for Extra Crispiness: For an extra crispy finish, place the roasted cauliflower under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
- Serve: Remove the cauliflower from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve alongside the garlic sauce for dipping.
Notes
- For an extra crunchy texture, cornstarch is optional but recommended.
- You can substitute Greek yogurt with sour cream based on preference or dietary needs.
- Adjust seasoning and salt according to your taste.
- Keep an eye on the cauliflower while broiling to prevent burning.
- This recipe can be easily made gluten-free by ensuring all ingredients used are certified gluten-free.
- For a vegan version, substitute mayonnaise and Greek yogurt with plant-based alternatives.
