Parmesan Cauliflower Bites: Deliciously Healthy Snack Recipe

Introduction

Parmesan Cauliflower Bites are a delicious and healthy snack that’s crispy, flavorful, and easy to make. These bite-sized treats are perfect for satisfying your cravings without guilt, combining the natural goodness of cauliflower with cheesy, crunchy coating.

Ingredients

• 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil spray or 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Wash the cauliflower under cold water to remove any dirt or impurities.
2. Step 2: Cut the cauliflower into bite-sized florets, aiming for uniform sizes of about 1 to 1.5 inches.
3. Step 3: Place the florets in a large mixing bowl.
4. Step 4: In a separate bowl, whisk the two large eggs until well combined.
5. Step 5: In another bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until evenly distributed.
6. Step 6: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
7. Step 7: Dip each cauliflower floret into the whisked eggs, letting any excess drip off.
8. Step 8: Transfer the egg-coated florets to the breadcrumb mixture and toss until well coated.
9. Step 9: Place the coated florets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them out evenly.
10. Step 10: Drizzle olive oil over the coated cauliflower or spray lightly with olive oil spray.
11. Step 11: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
12. Step 12: Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes to ensure they are golden brown and crispy.
13. Step 13: Let the bites cool for a couple of minutes on the baking sheet.
14. Step 14: Transfer to a serving platter and garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired.
15. Step 15: Serve with marinara sauce or a creamy ranch dip for extra flavor.

Tips & Variations

• Use panko breadcrumbs for an extra crispy texture.
• Try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder for a spicy kick.
• For a gluten-free version, substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed nuts.
• Serve with your favorite dipping sauces to enhance the flavors.
• If you prefer, bake on a wire rack placed over the baking sheet for even crispier results.

Storage

Store leftover Parmesan Cauliflower Bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 8-10 minutes or until heated through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving to keep them from becoming soggy.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cauliflower for this recipe?

Fresh cauliflower works best for this recipe since frozen cauliflower tends to release moisture and can result in soggy bites. If using frozen, make sure to thaw and dry it thoroughly before coating.

Can I make these bites ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the coated cauliflower florets ahead and store them in the fridge for a few hours before baking. For best texture, bake them fresh just before serving.

Parmesan Cauliflower Bites: Deliciously Healthy Snack Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 629 reviews

• Author: Sophie
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

These Parmesan Cauliflower Bites are a deliciously healthy snack that combines crispy, golden-baked cauliflower florets coated in Parmesan cheese and seasoned breadcrumbs. Perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or guilt-free snack, they offer a savory crunch with a touch of herbs and spices, baked to perfection for a wholesome alternative to traditional fried snacks.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Cauliflower Bites Ingredients

• 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil spray or 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Cauliflower: Wash the cauliflower thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt or impurities. Then, cut the cauliflower into bite-sized florets, aiming for uniform pieces about 1 to 1.5 inches to ensure even cooking.
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk the two large eggs until they are well combined and slightly frothy.
3. Combine the Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, mix together the grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper evenly to create the seasoned breadcrumb coating.
4. Coat the Cauliflower: Dip each cauliflower floret into the whisked eggs, allowing any excess egg to drip off. Then transfer the coated florets into the breadcrumb mixture and toss until they are completely and evenly coated.
5. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) to get it ready for baking.
6. Arrange and Oil the Bites: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and evenly space the coated cauliflower florets on it. Lightly spray olive oil over them or drizzle with about 2 tablespoons of olive oil to help with browning and crispiness.
7. Bake the Cauliflower: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the florets for 20-25 minutes. Flip them halfway through the baking time to promote even crisping and browning. Watch carefully during the last few minutes to achieve a golden, crispy texture.
8. Cool and Serve: Once baked, let the cauliflower bites cool for a couple of minutes on the baking sheet. Transfer them to a serving platter, garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired, and serve warm with marinara sauce or creamy ranch dip for an extra burst of flavor.

Notes

• For best results, use panko breadcrumbs as they provide extra crunch compared to regular breadcrumbs.
• Make sure cauliflower florets are similarly sized to ensure even baking and crispiness.
• You can prepare these bites ahead of time and reheat them in the oven to retain crispiness.
• These bites can be served as a healthy appetizer or snack, paired well with your favorite dipping sauces.
• To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs.
• Adjust seasoning according to your taste preference; add chili powder or cayenne for a spicy kick.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Snack
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: Parmesan cauliflower bites, healthy snack, baked cauliflower, crispy cauliflower, vegetarian appetizer