Description
Parmesan Cauliflower Bites are a delicious, crispy, and cheesy roasted cauliflower snack. These bites are flavored with garlic, smoked paprika, and Parmesan cheese, then roasted to golden perfection. Perfect as a healthy appetizer or side dish that’s vegetarian and gluten-free.
Ingredients
Scale
Cauliflower Bites
- 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Toss cauliflower with seasonings: In a large bowl, combine the cauliflower florets with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Toss well to ensure every floret is evenly coated with the spices and oil.
- Add Parmesan cheese: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the cauliflower and toss again until the florets are thoroughly coated with cheesy goodness.
- Arrange on baking sheet: Spread the cauliflower in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. This helps the florets roast evenly and get crispy.
- Roast the cauliflower: Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast for 25 to 30 minutes. Flip the florets halfway through to ensure even browning. The cauliflower should be golden brown with crispy edges.
- Optional broil step: For extra crispiness, broil the cauliflower for an additional 2 to 3 minutes at the end of roasting, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve the Parmesan Cauliflower Bites warm as a snack, appetizer, or side dish.
Notes
- For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes before roasting.
- Serve with ranch dressing or marinara sauce for dipping to enhance flavor.
- Broiling for 2–3 minutes at the end of roasting adds extra crispiness but watch carefully to avoid burning.
- This recipe is gluten-free and vegetarian friendly.
