Description
Keto cauliflower parmesan offers a delightful low-carb alternative to traditional Italian classics. Crispy roasted florets with rich parmesan create a satisfying side dish that lets you enjoy comfort without compromising dietary goals.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 head cauliflower (3 lbs / 1.4 kg)
- 1 cup (240 ml) marinara sauce (no sugar added)
- ¾ cup (85 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup (50 g) grated parmesan cheese
- 3 tbsps extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp sea salt
- ¼ cup fresh basil, cut into ribbons
Instructions
- Preparation: Position oven racks in center and upper third positions, heating to 220°C / 425°F for optimal roasting environment.
- Cauliflower Preparation: Trim the base for stability, remove thick green stems, and slice vertically into 1-inch thick steaks, preserving florets.
- Seasoning and Arrangement: Cover baking tray with parchment paper, arrange cauliflower in single layer, then whisk olive oil, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper into a robust coating mixture.
- Initial Roasting: Brush seasoning generously over both surfaces of cauliflower, ensuring complete coverage, then roast on center rack for 20 minutes to initiate caramelization.
- Cheese Application: Carefully flip cauliflower using metal spatula, sprinkle parmesan cheese across surface, then return to oven for additional 18-20 minutes until edges transform into crispy golden perfection.
- Final Melting Stage: Switch oven to broil setting, spread marinara sauce evenly, distribute mozzarella cheese, and broil 1-3 minutes until cheese melts with light golden hue.
- Serving: Remove from oven, garnish with fresh basil leaves, and serve immediately while temperature and aroma are at peak intensity.
Notes
- Prep Surface Strategically: Slice cauliflower vertically to create sturdy, uniform steaks that maximize caramelization and prevent crumbling during cooking.
- Season Thoroughly: Brush seasoning mixture generously on both sides to ensure deep flavor penetration and even coating across entire surface.
- Monitor Broiling Closely: Watch cheese melting process carefully during final 1-3 minutes to prevent burning and achieve perfect golden color.
- Serve Immediately: Enjoy cauliflower parmesan hot from the oven to maintain crispy texture and maximize aromatic herb and cheese flavors.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 170
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 15mg