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Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower Bites Recipe

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4.1 from 5 reviews

These Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower Bites are a quick and easy vegetarian side dish that delivers crispy, golden-brown cauliflower with a flavorful Parmesan and breadcrumb coating. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or a delicious side that can also stand in as a healthier alternative to baked chicken nuggets.

Ingredients

Cauliflower

  • 7 cups cauliflower florets, cut to bite-sized pieces

Coating

  • 3 to 4 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 cup Italian bread crumbs
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese, grated

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large, rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil and spray it liberally with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking and make clean-up easier.
  2. Coat Cauliflower with Olive Oil: Place the cauliflower florets in a large zip-close bag. Add 3 to 4 tablespoons of olive oil, seal the bag, and shake well to ensure each piece is evenly coated with oil, which helps the coating stick and promotes browning.
  3. Add Seasonings and Breadcrumbs: Open the bag and add the Italian bread crumbs, garlic powder, salt, and grated Parmesan cheese. Seal the bag again and shake vigorously, pressing gently to help the breading adhere evenly to the cauliflower florets.
  4. Arrange and Spray for Crispiness: Pour the coated cauliflower onto the prepared baking sheet, spreading them out in a single layer. Spray the tops of the florets with additional non-stick cooking spray to enhance crispness during roasting.
  5. First Bake Cycle: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10 minutes to start the cooking process and begin browning the coating.
  6. Stir and Continue Baking: After 10 minutes, remove the baking sheet and stir the cauliflower to ensure even cooking and browning on all sides, then return to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the florets are golden brown and tender.
  7. Serve: Once done, remove from the oven and serve hot. These make a delicious side or snack! Enjoy your Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower Bites.

Notes

  • You can substitute Italian bread crumbs with gluten-free bread crumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.
  • For extra flavor, add some freshly chopped parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.
  • Make sure the cauliflower pieces are evenly sized for uniform cooking.
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan for best flavor and melting quality.
  • Do not overcrowd the baking sheet to ensure the cauliflower crisps up nicely instead of steaming.