When it comes to cooking, busy weeknights can be a challenge. But what if you had a simple and delicious recipe that could be prepared in no time? Enter: cauliflower! This versatile vegetable is a staple in many cuisines around the world, and when cooked right, it’s incredibly tasty. From comforting classics like roasted cauliflower to innovative twists like cauliflower pizza crust, there are countless ways to enjoy this humble veggie.
In this article, we’ll explore 20 easy and delicious cauliflower recipes that are perfect for busy weeknights. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a culinary newbie, these simple yet satisfying dishes will become new favorites in no time. So without further ado, let’s dive into our top picks and get cooking!
Garlic Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower
Elevate your roasted cauliflower game with this simple and flavorful recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a side dish for the holidays.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper until well coated.
3. Spread cauliflower mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper in a single layer.
4. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese evenly over the cauliflower.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until cauliflower is tender and caramelized.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Easy Cauliflower Fried Rice
Transform leftover rice into a tasty and healthy meal with this simple recipe! Cauliflower fried rice is a game-changer for those looking to reduce carbs or add more veggies to their diet.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the cauliflower and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Push the cauliflower aside. Crack in the eggs and scramble them until cooked through.
4. Add the onion, garlic, and soy sauce to the pan. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Mix everything together, including the cooked rice.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Creamy Cauliflower Soup
This creamy cauliflower soup is a delicious and comforting twist on the classic vegetable soup. With just a few ingredients, you can create a rich and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 large head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add cauliflower florets, flour, chicken broth, and heavy cream to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until cauliflower is tender, about 20-25 minutes.
5. Purée soup with an immersion blender or regular blender until smooth. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Simple Cauliflower Mash
Simple Cauliflower Mash Recipe
Transform cauliflower into a creamy, comforting side dish with this simple recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup milk or heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, grated cheese, or chopped herbs for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Steam the cauliflower florets until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Drain the cauliflower and return it to the pot. Add butter, salt, and pepper. Mash with a fork or potato masher until smooth.
3. Gradually add milk or heavy cream, stirring until the desired consistency is reached.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If desired, add garlic powder, grated cheese, or chopped herbs for extra flavor.
Cooking Time:
– Steaming: 5-7 minutes
– Mashing and adding liquids: 2-3 minutes
Quick Cauliflower Tacos
In this recipe, we’re taking a creative spin on traditional tacos by swapping out the meat for roasted cauliflower. The result is a flavorful and nutritious dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, diced avocado, sour cream, salsa
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until well coated.
3. Spread the cauliflower mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and lightly browned.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos by placing roasted cauliflower onto tortillas and adding desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Spicy Buffalo Cauliflower Bites
Spicy Buffalo Cauliflower Bites Recipe
Get ready to ignite your taste buds with this addictive snack! Crunchy cauliflower florets smothered in a spicy buffalo sauce will become your new go-to appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into bite-sized florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1/4 cup Frank’s RedHot sauce (or buffalo sauce of choice)
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, butter, Frank’s RedHot sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Spread the cauliflower mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cauliflower is tender and slightly caramelized.
5. Remove from oven and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese (if using). Return to oven for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 22-28 minutes
Serve hot and enjoy the spicy kick!
Easy Cauliflower Pizza Crust
Easy Cauliflower Pizza Crust
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Get creative with this innovative pizza crust recipe that uses cauliflower as the base, making it a healthier and gluten-free alternative to traditional pizza dough.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem.
3. Cut the cauliflower into florets and pulse in a food processor until it resembles rice.
4. Microwave the cauliflower “rice” for 3-4 minutes, stirring every minute, until it’s soft and slightly tender.
5. Allow the cauliflower to cool slightly, then mix with olive oil, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
6. Transfer the mixture to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and shape into a crust.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Serve: With your favorite pizza toppings!
Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole
This casserole combines the natural sweetness of cauliflower with a rich, creamy cheese sauce and a crunchy breadcrumb topping, creating a delightful side dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add cauliflower florets and cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
3. In a separate saucepan, whisk together flour and milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
4. Remove skillet from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
5. Combine cooked cauliflower with cheese sauce and season with salt and pepper.
6. Transfer mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and top with breadcrumbs.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cauliflower and Chickpea Curry
This recipe combines the creamy goodness of chickpeas with the subtle sweetness of cauliflower, all wrapped up in a rich and aromatic curry sauce. Perfect for a quick and easy vegetarian dinner!
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 can coconut milk (14 oz)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add cauliflower and chickpeas to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Pour in coconut milk and bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 15-20 minutes or until cauliflower is tender.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Roasted Cauliflower with Tahini Drizzle
Roasted Cauliflower with Tahini Drizzle Recipe
Summary: Elevate your vegetable game with this flavorful and nutritious roasted cauliflower recipe, perfectly balanced by a creamy tahini drizzle.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 garlic clove, minced (optional)
– Fresh parsley or cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, salt, and any desired garlic. Spread on a baking sheet in a single layer.
3. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until cauliflower is tender and caramelized.
4. Meanwhile, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt.
5. Once cauliflower is roasted, drizzle with tahini mixture and garnish with parsley or cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes
Easy Cauliflower Mac and Cheese
A comforting twist on the classic macaroni and cheese, this recipe adds a nutritious boost from cauliflower. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add cauliflower and cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Sprinkle flour over cauliflower and stir to combine. Gradually add milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
5. Bring mixture to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
6. Stir in cheddar cheese until melted and well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Combine cooked macaroni and cauliflower mixture. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese (optional).
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Cauliflower Rice Stir-Fry
Transform cauliflower into a delicious rice substitute with this simple and healthy recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of mixed vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, carrots, snap peas)
– 1 teaspoon of soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite stir-fry seasonings
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem. Cut into florets.
2. Pulse in a food processor until the cauliflower resembles rice.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
4. Add sliced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Add mixed vegetables, cooked cauliflower “rice,” and soy sauce. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and any desired stir-fry seasonings.
7. Serve hot, garnished with green onions or sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Simple Cauliflower Salad
Transforming humble cauliflower into a vibrant salad that’s perfect for any occasion! This recipe requires minimal effort, but yields maximum flavor and texture.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
4. Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature.
5. In a large bowl, combine roasted cauliflower, parsley, and feta cheese (if using).
6. Toss gently to combine.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Baked Cauliflower Tots
Transform cauliflower into crispy, cheesy bites with this easy recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 1/2 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: additional seasonings such as garlic powder or dried herbs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Spread the cauliflower mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Sprinkle breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese over the cauliflower.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until tender and golden brown.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cauliflower and Broccoli Gratin
A creamy, cheesy gratin that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of cauliflower and broccoli with a rich, buttery sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 cups of broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour
– 1 1/2 cups of grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup of heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the cauliflower and broccoli and cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
3. In a separate saucepan, whisk together the flour and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer the cooked cauliflower and broccoli to a baking dish and pour the cheese sauce over the top.
6. Dot the top with the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Quick Cauliflower Hummus
A twist on traditional hummus, this recipe incorporates cauliflower into the classic dip. Perfect for a quick snack or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 1/4 cup cooked chickpeas
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 1/4 cup tahini
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: paprika for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss cauliflower florets with 2 tablespoons olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 15-20 minutes or until tender.
3. In a blender or food processor, combine roasted cauliflower, chickpeas, garlic, lemon juice, tahini, and salt and pepper to taste. Blend until smooth.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Garnish with paprika if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Easy Cauliflower Steaks
Transform cauliflower into a delicious and healthy “steak” with this simple recipe. Perfect as a side dish or main course, these steaks are flavorful and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite seasonings (e.g., paprika, chili flakes)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower head and remove the leaves and stem.
3. Cut the cauliflower into thick slices, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) wide.
4. In a bowl, toss the cauliflower slices with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well coated.
5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the cauliflower steaks in a single layer.
6. Cook for 20-25 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized.
7. Serve hot, garnished with your favorite seasonings if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cauliflower and Cheese Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines roasted cauliflower with melted cheese for a creamy, satisfying side dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roast the cauliflower in a single layer on a baking sheet with olive oil, onion, and garlic until tender, about 20 minutes.
3. Meanwhile, cut off the tops of the peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
4. Stuff each pepper with roasted cauliflower mixture and top with cheddar and mozzarella cheese.
5. Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until peppers are tender and cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Roasted Cauliflower with Lemon and Herbs
Roasted Cauliflower with Lemon and Herbs: A Bright and Flavorful Side Dish
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 lemon, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper until well coated.
3. Spread the cauliflower mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until cauliflower is tender and caramelized, stirring halfway through.
5. Remove from the oven and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Simple Cauliflower and Potato Soup
A comforting and creamy soup that’s perfect for a cozy evening or a quick lunch. With just a few ingredients, you can create a delicious and nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup milk (or cream)
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the cauliflower and potato in butter until tender.
2. Add the chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
3. Use an immersion blender (or transfer the soup to a blender) to puree the mixture until smooth.
4. Stir in the milk (or cream).
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped chives or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Summary
Discover the versatility of cauliflower with these 20 easy and delicious recipes perfect for busy weeknights. From classic comfort foods like mac and cheese to international flavors like curry and hummus, there’s something for everyone. Try Garlic Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower, Creamy Cauliflower Soup, or Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole. Get creative with Cauliflower Fried Rice, Tacos, and Pizza Crust. Or, keep it simple with Cauliflower Mash, Salad, and Steaks. With these recipes, you’ll never get bored of cauliflower again!
