Healthy Cauliflower Steaks

This is a beautiful and simple recipe for roasted cauliflower that transforms it into a satisfying main or side dish, seasoned to perfection and lightly melted with cheese for that indulgent-yet-healthy touch.

Ingredients:

• 1 large head of cauliflower, leaves and stem trimmed

• 3-4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (or avocado oil)

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• ½ teaspoon paprika (smoked paprika is great for a deeper flavor)

• ½ teaspoon sea salt

• ¼ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper

• 1 cup shredded low-moisture mozzarella or provolone cheese

• Garnish:

  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

  • 1 tablespoon fresh chives, finely chopped

  • Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

  • Coarse sea salt (optional, for a final flourish)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cauliflower: Pre-heat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Stand the cauliflower on its stem and, using a sharp knife, slice it vertically into 1-inch thick "steaks." You should get 3-4 good center steaks. Use any extra florets for roasting separately.

2. Make the Seasoning: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, sea salt, and black pepper.

3. Season and Roast: Lay the cauliflower steaks in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Brush both sides of each steak with the prepared seasoning mixture. Place in the pre-heated oven and roast for 15 minutes.

4. Flip and Continue Roasting: Remove from the oven, carefully flip each steak over, and roast for another 10-15 minutes, or until the edges are nicely caramelized and the stalks are tender when pierced with a fork.

5. Add the Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top of each cauliflower steak. Return to the oven and roast for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling. For a touch of color, you can broil for the final 30 seconds (watch closely!).

6. Garnish and Serve: Transfer the roasted steaks to a serving plate and garnish with fresh chopped parsley and chives. Add red pepper flakes and a pinch of coarse sea salt if desired, and enjoy!