Cauliflower steaks have become a popular vegetarian and vegan alternative to traditional meaty mains, offering a satisfyingly hearty texture and delicious blank canvas for a variety of flavors. This recipe elevates the humble cauliflower to new heights with a vibrant burst cherry tomato sauce and a generous topping of melted cheese. It's surprisingly easy to make and delivers a restaurant-quality meal without the restaurant-quality price tag.
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe achieves the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors. The naturally sweet cauliflower is complemented by the bright acidity of the cherry tomatoes, creating a harmonious flavor profile. The addition of aromatic herbs and a touch of balsamic vinegar adds complexity and depth, while the melted cheese provides a comforting richness and satisfying finish.
The use of thick cauliflower steaks ensures a substantial and satisfying eating experience, preventing the dish from feeling lightweight or flimsy. This makes it a perfect centerpiece for a weeknight dinner or a sophisticated vegetarian option for a special occasion.
Ingredients:
For the Cauliflower Steaks:
- 1 large head of cauliflower
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
For the Burst Cherry Tomato Sauce:
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Topping:
- ½ cup grated mozzarella cheese (or your preferred melting cheese)
- Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Cauliflower Steaks:
- Remove the leaves and core from the cauliflower. Cut the head into approximately 1-inch thick steaks. Try to keep them as even as possible for uniform cooking.
- Drizzle olive oil over the cauliflower steaks and season generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
Step 2: Roast the Cauliflower Steaks:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the cauliflower steaks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Roast for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until tender and slightly browned.
Step 3: Make the Burst Cherry Tomato Sauce:
- While the cauliflower is roasting, prepare the tomato sauce. Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the cherry tomatoes, balsamic vinegar, oregano, and basil to the saucepan. Season with salt and pepper.
- Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the tomatoes have softened and burst, creating a thick sauce.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake:
- Once the cauliflower steaks are cooked, transfer them to a baking dish.
- Pour the burst cherry tomato sauce evenly over the cauliflower steaks.
- Sprinkle generously with grated mozzarella cheese.
- Bake for another 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy:
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious and flavorful cauliflower steaks!
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the tomato sauce for a spicy kick.
- Herby delight: Experiment with different herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or parsley.
- Cheese variations: Use your favorite melting cheese, such as Gruyere, Parmesan, or Fontina.
- Add protein: Include some roasted chickpeas or grilled halloumi for added protein.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve with a side of quinoa or roasted vegetables for a balanced and satisfying meal.
This recipe is a testament to the versatility of cauliflower. It’s a simple yet impressive dish that is sure to impress your family and friends. Give it a try and enjoy the delicious results!
