Roasted Cauliflower Steaks Recipe (Vegan & Gluten Free)

Roasted Cauliflower Steaks are a delicious, healthy, and impressive dish that’s perfect for a plant-based main course or a hearty side. With their tender, caramelized edges and savory flavor, these cauliflower steaks are a crowd-pleaser, whether served as part of a dinner party spread or as a simple weeknight meal.

This recipe enhances the natural flavor of cauliflower with spices and a drizzle of olive oil for perfectly roasted steaks that are crispy on the edges and soft on the inside.

Roasted Cauliflower Steaks Recipe

Serves: 2-4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Total Time: 35-40 minutes

Ingredients:

1 large head of cauliflower (preferably organic)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for a smoky flavor)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh lemon juice (optional)
Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cauliflower:

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Remove the leaves from the cauliflower and trim the stem so that the cauliflower can stand upright.
Slice the cauliflower into 1-inch thick “steaks” from the center of the cauliflower head (you should get about 2-3 steaks depending on the size of the cauliflower). You can save the florets that fall off and roast them as well!

2. Season the Steaks:

Place the cauliflower steaks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
Drizzle the olive oil over both sides of the cauliflower steaks, making sure they are evenly coated.
Sprinkle the cumin, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper over the cauliflower steaks. Use a brush or spoon to evenly distribute the spices and oil.

3. Roast the Cauliflower:

Roast the cauliflower steaks in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time.
The steaks should be golden brown with crispy edges and a tender interior when done.

4. Serve:

Once roasted, remove the cauliflower steaks from the oven and drizzle with fresh lemon juice for extra brightness (optional).
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor (optional).

Tips for the Best Roasted Cauliflower Steaks:

Size Matters: Choose a cauliflower with a thick, compact stem so that the steaks hold together better during cooking.
Customization: Feel free to experiment with different spices like curry powder, turmeric, or Italian herbs to suit your taste.
Roasting Tips: For extra caramelization, roast the cauliflower on a higher rack in the oven and check for desired crispiness towards the end.
Serve With: Roasted cauliflower steaks pair wonderfully with a variety of sides like quinoa, couscous, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad.

Why You’ll Love These Roasted Cauliflower Steaks:

Simple & Quick: The recipe only requires a few ingredients and minimal prep time, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Flavorful & Satisfying: The roasting process brings out the natural sweetness of the cauliflower, and the spices add depth and complexity.
Vegan & Gluten-Free: This dish is suitable for a variety of diets, including vegan, gluten-free, and Whole30.
Impressive: Roasted cauliflower steaks look beautiful and are sure to impress guests at your next dinner party.

Roasted Cauliflower Steaks are a simple yet elegant way to enjoy cauliflower, and they’re an excellent alternative to traditional meat steaks. Whether you’re looking for a vegan main dish or a side to accompany your favorite entree, this recipe delivers in flavor and presentation.