Veggie Cauliflower Steak

The Veggie Cauliflower Steak is simple to prepare and can be enjoyed on its own or served alongside any other main dish as a side.

When it comes to satisfying vegetarian meals, few things are as rewarding as a well-prepared cauliflower steak. This innovative dish takes a humble vegetable and transforms it into a hearty and flavourful main course that even meat lovers can enjoy.

By slicing a head of cauliflower into thick steaks and roasting or grilling them with a mix of herbs, spices, and olive oil, you can create a dish that is not only delicious but also visually appealing.

Cauliflower steaks are a versatile option that can be customised to suit a variety of flavour profiles. You can marinate them in a tangy balsamic glaze, coat them in a spicy harissa rub, or simply season them with salt, pepper, and garlic for a more classic taste. Here is my Italian version.

Good to know

Cauliflower is not only a fantastic vegetable but also incredibly versatile in the kitchen. As part of the cruciferous family, it is well known for its impressive health benefits. Rich in essential nutrients such as vitamin C, vitamin K, and folate, cauliflower is a true nutritional powerhouse, helping to support the immune system, strengthen bones, and promote overall well-being.

Naturally low in calories and high in fibre, it’s an excellent choice for those aiming to maintain a healthy weight or improve digestion. It is also packed with antioxidants, which can help reduce inflammation and lower the risk of chronic diseases.

In the kitchen, cauliflower adapts beautifully to a variety of cooking methods—it can be roasted, steamed, mashed, or even transformed into delicious cauliflower rice. This Veggie Cauliflower Steak recipe is a perfect way to bring out all its goodness in one satisfying dish.

Ingredients for 2 servings of Veggie Cauliflower Steak

• 1 cauliflower, cut into slices

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, finely crushed

• 1 fresh thyme stalk (leaves only) or 1 tbsp dried thyme

• 1 tbsp oregano

• 1 tbsp sweet paprika

• 150 g Parmesan cheese, grated

• 2–3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

Let's Jump To The Method

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2. Begin by washing the cauliflower thoroughly under running water.

3. Preheat the oven to 200°C.

4. Trim the green leaves, leaving the cauliflower stem still connected to the crown.

5. Slice vertically into thick pieces measuring about 2 cm in width, ensuring that each piece remains attached to the stem. This is crucial to preserve the steak-like shape. You will, however, have some loose pieces at the ends.

6. Sauté the onion and garlic until just golden, then add the small loose cauliflower pieces and cook for approximately 8 minutes, until very soft. Set aside.

7. In a small bowl, combine olive oil, thyme leaves, oregano, and sweet paprika. Mix well, then add the sautéed onion and softened cauliflower pieces, and finally the Parmesan cheese. Adjust with a little more oil if necessary.

8. Line an oven tray with baking paper.

9. Place the thick cauliflower slices on the tray.

10. Brush the mixture of herbs, Parmesan, and cauliflower pieces over the top and sides.

11. Next, sprinkle a generous portion of grated Parmesan cheese over the “steaks” and drizzle with a little extra virgin olive oil as a final touch.

12. Bake for about 20 minutes, or until the stem feels soft.

    
    

It looks good, and it tastes even better. Buon appetito!

Veggie Cauliflower steak