Hey y’all! If you’re looking for a scrumptious appetizer that’s perfect for game nights, parties, or just a cozy evening in, these Crispy Baked Cauliflower Bites with Garlic Sauce are an absolute winner. They’re crunchy, flavorful, and so easy to make. Plus, they pair beautifully with a creamy garlic sauce that you won’t be able to resist. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This
- Easy to make with everyday ingredients.
- A healthier alternative to fried snacks.
- Perfect for both vegan and non-vegan diets.
- Packed with flavor thanks to the delicious garlic sauce.
- Great for meal prep and stays crispy even after reheating.
Ingredients
- 1 medium cauliflower, cut into florets
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup water
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Garlic Sauce
- 1/2 cup vegan mayonnaise
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
Prepare the Cauliflower
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, water, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Bread the Cauliflower
Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, allowing any excess to drip off. Coat well with panko breadcrumbs and place on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil.
Bake to Perfection
Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the cauliflower is golden brown and crispy.
Make the Garlic Sauce
While the cauliflower bakes, mix the mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, parsley, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until combined. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Notes
- For a gluten-free option, substitute all-purpose flour and panko with gluten-free versions.
- Adjust the spice level by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the batter if you like it spicy. Learn more about spicy cooking here.
- For the best texture, serve the cauliflower bites immediately after baking.
Variations
- Buffalo Cauliflower Bites: Toss the baked cauliflower in buffalo sauce before serving.
- Cheesy Cauliflower Bites: Add nutritional yeast to the batter for a cheesy flavor.
- Asian-Style Cauliflower Bites: Drizzle with soy sauce and sesame seeds after baking.
Required Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
Storage Instructions
Store leftover cauliflower bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 minutes to crisp them up.
Suggested Pairings
- Serve with fresh veggies and hummus for a complete snack platter.
- Pair with a crisp white wine or cold beer.
- Enjoy alongside a fresh salad for a light meal.
Pro Tips
- Ensure the cauliflower is dry before battering for maximum crispiness. Check out tips on drying vegetables here.
- Use a cooling rack on top of the baking sheet for even better airflow during baking.
- Try to evenly coat each floret with batter for the best texture.
FAQ
Can I use frozen cauliflower?
Yes, just make sure to thaw and pat it dry thoroughly before using.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
The recipe is already vegan, using vegan mayonnaise for the garlic sauce.
What if I don’t have panko breadcrumbs?
You can substitute with regular breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes for a crispy texture.