Description
Delicious and healthy Parmesan Cauliflower Bites that deliver savory flavor and nutritional benefits, the perfect alternative to traditional snacks.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 large head of cauliflower (approximately 2 pounds), cut into bite-sized florets
- 3 tablespoons olive oil (substitute avocado oil for a higher smoke point)
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (can swap for nutritional yeast for a vegan option)
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder (or 4 fresh garlic cloves, minced for more intense flavor)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (regular paprika works too, but smoked adds depth)
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes for heat
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Wash your cauliflower thoroughly and pat it dry. Cut into bite-sized florets of uniform size.
- In a large bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add cauliflower florets and toss thoroughly to coat evenly.
- Spread the seasoned cauliflower in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving at least 1/4 inch between pieces. Roast for 15 minutes.
- Remove from oven and sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the cauliflower. Return to the oven for 8-10 minutes, until cheese is melted and forms a golden-brown crust.
- Remove from oven and immediately sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley. Let cool for 2-3 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Use freshly grated Parmesan rather than pre-packaged varieties for better melting and flavor.
- Make sure to dry cauliflower thoroughly to achieve crispiness.
- Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet to prevent steaming instead of roasting.
- For vegan option, substitute Parmesan with nutritional yeast.
- Store in an airtight container (slightly vented) for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in an air fryer for 3-4 minutes at 350°F or in a conventional oven for 5-7 minutes at 375°F.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 120
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g
Keywords: parmesan cauliflower bites, healthy snack, low carb appetizer, roasted cauliflower, keto-friendly