Cauliflower steaks have gained popularity as a delicious, hearty, and nutritious plant-based dish. This recipe, featuring cauliflower steaks with a creamy garlic tahini topping, elevates the humble cauliflower to a centerpiece dish that is perfect for vegans, vegetarians, or anyone looking to enjoy a nutrient-packed meal. Roasted cauliflower takes on a tender yet crisp texture, while the creamy garlic tahini sauce adds a rich, nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the mildness of the vegetable. This dish is not only flavorful but also packed with health benefits, making it an ideal option for weeknight dinners, entertaining, or special occasions. Whether you’re looking for a healthy alternative to traditional meat-based steaks or a tasty way to enjoy more vegetables, this recipe will satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
For the cauliflower steaks:
– 1 large head of cauliflower
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– ½ teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the creamy garlic tahini topping:
– ¼ cup tahini (sesame seed paste)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2-3 tablespoons water (to thin the sauce as needed)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the Cauliflower Steaks
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Start by removing the outer leaves of the cauliflower and cutting off the bottom stem while keeping the core intact to hold the steaks together.
3. Using a sharp knife, slice the cauliflower into 1-inch-thick steaks. You should get about 2 to 3 full steaks from one head, depending on its size. The smaller pieces that break off can still be roasted alongside the steaks.
Step 2: Season the Cauliflower
1. In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, paprika, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Brush both sides of the cauliflower steaks generously with the spiced olive oil mixture, ensuring they are well-coated for maximum flavor.
3. Place the cauliflower steaks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat for easy cleanup.
Step 3: Roast the Cauliflower
1. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the cauliflower for 20-25 minutes. After the first 15 minutes, carefully flip the steaks to ensure even cooking.
2. Continue roasting until the cauliflower is tender and has developed a golden-brown crust on both sides. The edges should be slightly crispy, which adds a delightful texture.
Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Garlic Tahini Topping
1. While the cauliflower is roasting, prepare the garlic tahini sauce. In a bowl, combine the tahini, minced garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil.
2. Gradually add water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the sauce reaches a smooth, creamy consistency. It should be thick but pourable.
3. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, add more lemon juice for extra brightness or more garlic for a stronger kick.
Step 5: Assemble and Serve
1. Once the cauliflower steaks are done roasting, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a minute.
2. Drizzle the creamy garlic tahini sauce generously over the top of each steak.
3. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro for an extra burst of color and flavor.
4. Serve immediately, and enjoy the delicious combination of crispy, roasted cauliflower and rich, creamy garlic tahini.
Variation:
You can customize this cauliflower steak recipe to suit your taste or dietary preferences:
– Spicy Version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the olive oil mixture before roasting for a kick of heat.
– Herb-Infused Tahini Sauce: Blend fresh herbs such as parsley, cilantro, or dill into the tahini sauce for a herby twist.
– Cheesy Topping: If you’re not vegan, consider adding a sprinkle of parmesan or feta cheese on top of the cauliflower steaks for an extra layer of flavor.
– Middle Eastern Touch: Sprinkle za’atar or sumac over the steaks before roasting for a deeper, more aromatic flavor.
Cooking Note:
For optimal results, ensure your cauliflower steaks are thick enough to hold together during roasting. If they are too thin, they may fall apart and cook unevenly. If your oven tends to cook unevenly, rotate the baking sheet halfway through roasting to avoid burning.
Serving Suggestions:
Cauliflower steaks are incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways:
– As a Main Dish: Serve the cauliflower steaks as the star of the meal, paired with a side of quinoa, couscous, or a fresh green salad for a complete, balanced dinner.
– As a Side Dish: These steaks also work well as a side to complement dishes such as roasted chicken, grilled fish, or lamb for a more substantial meal.
– Over Grains or Greens: For a nutritious grain bowl, serve the cauliflower steaks over a bed of rice or farro and top with extra tahini sauce, avocado, and crunchy nuts.
– In Wraps or Pitas: Slice the cauliflower steaks and tuck them into wraps or pita bread with a bit of tahini, hummus, and pickled vegetables for a Mediterranean-inspired sandwich.
Tips:
– To prevent the cauliflower from sticking to the pan, be sure to use parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
– For extra crispy edges, try broiling the cauliflower steaks for the last 2-3 minutes of roasting. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
– If you want to save time, you can make the tahini sauce a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before using, as it may thicken over time.
Prep Time:
10 minutes
Cooking Time:
25 minutes
Total Time:
35 minutes
Nutritional Information:
– Calories: Approximately 230 per serving
– Protein: 5 grams
– Sodium: 200 milligrams (depending on how much salt is used)
FAQs:
Q: Can I use a different vegetable instead of cauliflower?
A: Absolutely! This tahini topping pairs well with roasted broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or even roasted eggplant. You can experiment with different vegetables while keeping the same seasoning and sauce.
Q: Is tahini sauce gluten-free?
A: Yes, tahini is naturally gluten-free since it is made from ground sesame seeds. Just ensure that any additional ingredients, like spices or condiments, are also gluten-free if needed.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: You can prepare the tahini sauce in advance and refrigerate it, but the cauliflower steaks are best enjoyed fresh from the oven. However, you can reheat the steaks in the oven or on a skillet to crisp them back up before serving.
Q: What if I don’t have tahini?
A: If you don’t have tahini, you can substitute it with almond butter or sunflower seed butter for a similar creamy consistency. Keep in mind that the flavor will vary slightly.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store any leftover cauliflower steaks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the oven to restore their crispiness. The tahini sauce can also be stored separately in the fridge for about 5 days.
Conclusion:
Cauliflower steaks with creamy garlic tahini topping are a delicious, healthy, and versatile dish that can cater to a variety of dietary needs and preferences. The simplicity of roasted cauliflower combined with the rich, nutty, and garlicky tahini sauce makes this meal satisfying and packed with nutrients. Whether you’re looking to reduce your meat consumption, try something new, or prepare a special dish for guests, this recipe is sure to impress. With easy preparation steps and room for customization, cauliflower steaks are a wonderful addition to your cooking repertoire. Enjoy them as a main course or a side dish, and don’t forget to savor the creamy garlic tahini sauce that ties everything together perfectly.
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Cauliflower Steaks with Creamy Garlic Tahini Topping
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients
Ingredients:
For the cauliflower steaks:
– 1 large head of cauliflower
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– ½ teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the creamy garlic tahini topping:
– ¼ cup tahini (sesame seed paste)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2-3 tablespoons water (to thin the sauce as needed)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cauliflower Steaks
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Start by removing the outer leaves of the cauliflower and cutting off the bottom stem while keeping the core intact to hold the steaks together.
3. Using a sharp knife, slice the cauliflower into 1-inch-thick steaks. You should get about 2 to 3 full steaks from one head, depending on its size. The smaller pieces that break off can still be roasted alongside the steaks.
Step 2: Season the Cauliflower
1. In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, paprika, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Brush both sides of the cauliflower steaks generously with the spiced olive oil mixture, ensuring they are well-coated for maximum flavor.
3. Place the cauliflower steaks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat for easy cleanup.
Step 3: Roast the Cauliflower
1. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the cauliflower for 20-25 minutes. After the first 15 minutes, carefully flip the steaks to ensure even cooking.
2. Continue roasting until the cauliflower is tender and has developed a golden-brown crust on both sides. The edges should be slightly crispy, which adds a delightful texture.
Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Garlic Tahini Topping
1. While the cauliflower is roasting, prepare the garlic tahini sauce. In a bowl, combine the tahini, minced garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil.
2. Gradually add water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the sauce reaches a smooth, creamy consistency. It should be thick but pourable.
3. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, add more lemon juice for extra brightness or more garlic for a stronger kick.
Step 5: Assemble and Serve
1. Once the cauliflower steaks are done roasting, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a minute.
2. Drizzle the creamy garlic tahini sauce generously over the top of each steak.
3. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro for an extra burst of color and flavor.
4. Serve immediately, and enjoy the delicious combination of crispy, roasted cauliflower and rich, creamy garlic tahini.
Notes
For optimal results, ensure your cauliflower steaks are thick enough to hold together during roasting. If they are too thin, they may fall apart and cook unevenly. If your oven tends to cook unevenly, rotate the baking sheet halfway through roasting to avoid burning.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: Approximately 230 per serving
- Sodium: 200 milligrams (depending on how much salt is used)
- Protein: 5 grams