Quick Crispy Baked Cauliflower
If you are in need of a guilt-free crispy crunchy snack or side dish then this Crispy Baked Cauliflower recipe is just the thing for you! No frying, no mess, no guilt, just golden cauliflower tossed in a nicely seasoned batter, baked until gloriously crispy. This dish is for those who love the crunch of fried food but want something healthier. And now, let’s get into why this recipe needs a place at your table.
Why You Will Love Crispy Baked Cauliflower
Crunchy Perfection: Crisp-golden from the outside, tender from the inside. It’s everything you want from a bite in texture.”
- Skinny and Light: Get your fried food fix without the grease or guilt.
- Common Pantry Ingredients: Made with staples you probably already have in your cupboards.
- Personal Preference: Mild — use garlic and paprika — hotter — sprinkle in a touch of cayenne or chili powder.
- One Pot Wonder: Make a great side dish, snack, appetizer or taco stuff. It’s a recipe that works for any occasion!
If you’re hosting a gathering or just meal-prepping for the week, this dish will steal the show.
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients
Full Ingredient List
- 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
- ½ cup all-purpose flour (substitute with gluten-free flour as needed)
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 1 cup cold water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Simple Step-by-Step Directions
- Preheat: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) similar to you to get crispi full cauliflower.
- Prepare Cauliflower: For the cauliflower, cut it into small, evenly-sized florets so that they cook quickly and uniformly.
- Make Batter: In a large mixing bowl, all of the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Gradually whisk in cold water, until you have a smooth batter.
- Coat the Cauliflower: Dip each of the cauliflower florets in the batter. And make sure they are fully coated, but shake off the excess batter.
- Arrange on a baking sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease with olive oil. Arrange battered cauliflower in a single, uncrowded layer.
- Bake: Drizzle with olive oil and bake 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway. The florets should be golden brown and crunchy.
- Garnish & serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley, serve warm and enjoy!
- Extra tip: Broil the cauliflower during the last 2–3 minutes of cooking for extra crispiness
Notes
How to Serve Crispy Baked Cauliflower
That kind of versatility makes this dish a star throughout meals. Here’s how you can enjoy it:
- With Dips: Serve with ranch, spicy mayo or tangy tahini for a flavour boost.
- Side Dish: Serve alongside roasted chicken, veggie burgers or grilled fish for a complete meal.
- Salads: Toss these crispy nuggets into a green or grain salad for a delightful crunch.
- Appetizer: Ready for groups — easy to grab, and oh-so-sating!
- Taco Fillings: Use as a base for delicious veggie tacos with avocado, lettuce, and your favourite salsa.
Pro Tips for the Ultimate Crunch Texture
- Even Coating: You want to lightly coat each floret without bogging down.— perfect crunch
- Air Fryer: Preheat to 400°F (200°C) and cook for 15–20 minutes, shaking halfway through for an even crisp.
- Leftovers: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for 2 days and reheat them in the oven or air fryer to regain crispiness.
- Custom Flavours: Add chili powder, cayenne, cumin, or smoked paprika to the batter for a spicy or smoky flavour twist.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 180
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Cholesterol: 10mg
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use frozen cauliflower?
Yes, but fresh cauliflower is a better bet for texture. If using frozen, thaw thoroughly and rod off to reduce sogginess.
2. Can I make it gluten-free?
Absolutely! Otherwise, make sure you use gluten-free flour and gluten-free baking powder.
3. How can I keep the cauliflower from getting soggy?
Best eaten fresh from the oven, when they have the best crunch. Use the oven or air fryer to reheat leftovers.
4. Can I make it ahead of time?
The batter and cauliflower can be made ahead of time. Store separately in the fridge, then batter and bake as required.
5. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
You can reheat them in an oven or air fryer to regain the crispy texture. Do not microwave or it will become dry.