Baked Cauliflower Parmesan is a delicious vegetarian dish that’s a twist on the classic eggplant or chicken Parmesan.
Baked cauliflower Parmesan offers several benefits, both nutritionally and in terms of taste and versatility:
- Rich in Nutrients: Cauliflower is a highly nutritious vegetable, rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It contains vitamins C, K, and B6, as well as folate, potassium, and manganese. Additionally, it’s low in calories and carbohydrates, making it a great choice for those looking to maintain a healthy diet.
- High in Fiber: Cauliflower is a good source of dietary fiber, which is important for digestive health, maintaining regular bowel movements, and reducing the risk of certain chronic diseases like heart disease and diabetes.
- Protein: While cauliflower itself isn’t a significant source of protein, the addition of eggs and Parmesan cheese in baked cauliflower parmesan boosts its protein content, making it a more filling and satisfying dish.
- Low in Saturated Fat: Baking the cauliflower instead of frying it reduces the amount of saturated fat in the dish, making it a healthier option compared to traditional fried dishes like eggplant parmesan.
- Versatility: Baked cauliflower veggie Parmesan is a versatile dish that can be customized to suit different dietary preferences and needs. It can easily be made gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs, and it can be made vegan by using a plant-based egg substitute and vegan cheese.
- Flavorful: The combination of marinara sauce, Parmesan cheese, and herbs gives baked cauliflower parmesan a delicious flavor profile that appeals to both adults and children. It’s a tasty way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet.
- Satisfying Alternative: This baked Parmesan can be a satisfying alternative to traditional meat-based dishes like chicken or eggplant Parmesan. It provides a similar texture and flavor experience without the meat, making it suitable for vegetarians or those looking to reduce their meat consumption.
Overall, baked cauliflower Parmesan is a nutritious, flavorful, and satisfying dish that offers a range of health benefits and can easily be incorporated into a balanced diet.
Spicy Buffalo Wings with Vegan Blue Cheese Dressing
Baked Cauliflower Parmesan
Yield:
4 servings
Prep Time:
10 minutes
Cook Time:
35 minutes
Total Time:
45 minutes
Baked cauliflower Parmesan is a delicious vegetarian dish that's a twist on the classic eggplant or chicken Parmesan.
Ingredients
- 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
- 2 cups of marinara sauce
- 1 cup of breadcrumbs
- 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for drizzling
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a baking dish with olive oil or non-stick spray.
- In a shallow dish, mix together the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper.
- Dip each cauliflower floret into the beaten eggs, then coat them thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture.
- Place the coated cauliflower florets in the prepared baking dish in a single layer.
- Drizzle olive oil over the cauliflower florets.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender and the coating is crispy and golden brown.
- Remove the baking dish from the oven and pour marinara sauce evenly over the cauliflower.
- Sprinkle shredded Parmesan cheese over the top.
- Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and the cheese is melted.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired before serving.