Description

Crispy Cauliflower Bites are a healthy and flavorful alternative to traditional fried snacks. With a crispy, golden crust and a tender interior, these baked cauliflower bites are the perfect appetizer, snack, or side dish. Coated in a savory breadcrumb mixture and baked to perfection, they’re light yet satisfying and can be paired with your favorite dipping sauces for extra flavor.

Ingredients

1 medium cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
1/2 cup all-purpose flour (or chickpea flour for a gluten-free version)
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (Panko for extra crunch or gluten-free breadcrumbs)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 large eggs
2 tablespoons olive oil (for drizzling or spraying)
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

For Dipping Sauce (Optional):

1/2 cup ranch dressing, tahini, or your favorite dipping sauce

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Instructions

Prepare the Cauliflower: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it. Cut the cauliflower into bite-sized florets.
Blanch the Cauliflower (Optional): For extra tenderness, blanch the cauliflower in boiling water for 2-3 minutes and immediately transfer it to ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain well.
Coat the Cauliflower: Set up a breading station with 3 bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Dip each cauliflower floret into the flour, then the egg, and finally coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
Arrange on the Baking Sheet: Place the breaded cauliflower florets in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle or spray with olive oil.
Bake: Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

Cheesy: Add more Parmesan or mozzarella to the breadcrumbs for a cheesy flavor.Spicy: Spice it up with chili powder, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce in the breadcrumbs.Vegan: Use a flax egg and swap Parmesan for nutritional yeast or a dairy-free cheese alternative.Sweet & Spicy: Add honey and chili flakes for a sweet and spicy flavor.Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes to maintain crispiness.