Parmesan Cauliflower Bites Recipe

Introduction

Parmesan Cauliflower Bites are a delicious and crispy snack perfect for any occasion. They combine tender cauliflower florets with a crunchy, cheesy coating that everyone will love. Easy to make and baked to golden perfection, these bites are a healthy alternative to fried snacks.

Ingredients

• 1 head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets (about 4 cups)
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• Olive oil spray

Instructions

1. Step 1: Wash and cut the cauliflower into uniform bite-sized florets to ensure even cooking and a perfect crisp on all sides.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, combine grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to create the crispy coating mixture.
3. Step 3: Whisk the eggs in a separate bowl. Dip each cauliflower floret into the egg wash, allowing any excess to drip off before coating.
4. Step 4: Roll each egg-coated floret in the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to help the coating adhere firmly.
5. Step 5: Arrange the coated bites on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Lightly spray with olive oil and bake in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, add a pinch of paprika or chili powder to the coating mixture.
• Serve with your favorite dipping sauce such as marinara, ranch, or a spicy aioli.
• Use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs to make this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets.
• For a cheesier bite, sprinkle a little extra Parmesan on top before baking.

Storage

Store leftover cauliflower bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes to retain crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it may soften the coating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cauliflower for this recipe?

It’s best to use fresh cauliflower for a crispier result. If using frozen, make sure to thaw and drain well to remove excess moisture before coating and baking.

How do I make these bites vegan?

Replace the eggs with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) and use vegan Parmesan-style cheese and breadcrumbs.

Parmesan Cauliflower Bites Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 96 reviews

These Parmesan Cauliflower Bites are a delicious, crispy, and healthy snack or appetizer. Coated in a flavorful mixture of Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and panko breadcrumbs, then baked to golden perfection, they provide a satisfying crunch without the added fat of frying. Perfect for a low-fat, vegetarian-friendly dish, they make a wonderful alternative to traditional fried snacks.

• Author: luca
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Cauliflower

• 1 head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets (about 4 cups)

Coating Mixture

• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste

Others

• 2 large eggs
• Olive oil spray

Instructions

1. Prep the Cauliflower: Wash and cut the cauliflower into uniform bite-sized florets to ensure even cooking and achieve a perfect crisp on all sides.
2. Make the Coating Mixture: In a large bowl, combine grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to create a flavorful, crispy coating mixture.
3. Dip in Egg Wash: Whisk the eggs in a separate bowl. Dip each cauliflower floret into the egg wash, allowing any excess to drip off to help the coating stick better.
4. Coat with Parmesan Breadcrumbs: Roll each egg-coated floret in the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently so the coating adheres firmly, ensuring a crispy texture after baking.
5. Bake Until Golden: Arrange the coated bites on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Lightly spray them with olive oil spray to aid crisping. Bake in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through cooking to ensure even browning, until the bites are golden and crispy.

Notes

• Ensure cauliflower florets are uniformly sized for even cooking.
• Flipping halfway through baking promotes crispness on all sides.
• Using olive oil spray instead of drizzling oil keeps the bites light and less greasy.
• These bites are best served warm for optimal crispiness.

Keywords: Parmesan cauliflower bites, baked cauliflower, crispy cauliflower appetizer, vegetarian snack, healthy finger food