Description
Crispy and flavorful Parmesan Cauliflower Bites are a delicious, oven-baked appetizer perfect for a healthy snack or party treat. Coated with a seasoned breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture, these golden cauliflower florets are baked to perfection, offering a satisfying crunch without deep frying.
Ingredients
Scale
Cauliflower & Coating
- 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into florets
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Egg Wash
- 2 large eggs, beaten
Additional
- Cooking spray
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly coat it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Mix Coating: In a large bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until evenly mixed.
- Coat Cauliflower: Dip each cauliflower floret into the beaten eggs to fully coat it. Then, roll the floret in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating adheres well.
- Arrange for Baking: Place the coated cauliflower florets onto the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, making sure they are not touching to allow even cooking and crisping.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. Halfway through the baking time, turn the florets to ensure they brown evenly on all sides and become crispy.
- Cool and Serve: Once golden and crispy, remove the cauliflower bites from the oven and allow them to cool slightly on the baking sheet before serving. This helps the coating set for a perfect crunch.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs.
- You can substitute Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast for a vegan-friendly option.
- Serve with your favorite dipping sauce such as ranch, marinara, or a spicy aioli.
- Ensure cauliflower florets are dry before coating to help the breadcrumb mixture stick better.
- To keep leftovers crispy, reheat in the oven or an air fryer rather than the microwave.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
