Easy Roasted Cauliflower Steaks with Chimichurri

Vegan dishes are always healthy and flavorful meals. Cauliflower is a perfect ingredient for a vegan recipe. It creates a vibrant, herbaceous dish with a hint of smokiness. This is a popular choice among vegetarians, vegans, and even omnivores looking for tasty plant-based meals.

Popularity of Cauliflower Steaks with Chimichurri

Today, Cauliflower Steaks with Chimichurri can be found in cookbooks and trendy restaurants.This dish is a hearty, plant-based option that appeals to meat-eaters as well as those following a vegan or vegetarian lifestyle.

Ingredients:

• For the Cauliflower Steaks:
  • 1 large head of cauliflower, sliced into thick steaks
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Optional: paprika or cumin for extra flavor
• For the Chimichurri Sauce:
  • 1 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 2 tbsp fresh oregano (or 1 tbsp dried)
  • 3-4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/2 cup olive oil
  • 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cauliflower Steaks:
   • Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
   • Slice the cauliflower into 1-inch thick steaks, keeping the core intact to hold them together.
   • Brush each side with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and any optional spices.
   • Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
2. Roast the Steaks:
   • Roast the cauliflower in the oven for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and tender.
3. Make the Chimichurri Sauce:
   • In a bowl, combine the parsley, oregano, minced garlic, red wine vinegar, and olive oil. Add red pepper flakes if desired, and season with salt and black pepper.
   • Mix well and let it sit for a few minutes to meld the flavors.
4. Serve:
   • Drizzle the chimichurri sauce over the hot cauliflower steaks and serve immediately.

Total for a Serving:

• Calories: ~100-160 kcal
• Fat: 5-12 g (from olive oil in chimichurri)
• Carbohydrates: 12-17 g (mostly from cauliflower)
• Protein: 3-5 g
• Fiber: 5-7 g

Tips for Perfect Cauliflower Steaks:

• Even Slicing: Use a sharp knife and try to cut the steaks as evenly as possible to ensure they cook uniformly.
• Flavor Variations: Feel free to experiment with the chimichurri by adding other fresh herbs like cilantro or mint for a twist.
• Grill Option: For a smoky flavor, you can grill the cauliflower steaks instead of roasting them. Just brush them with oil and grill each side for 3-5 minutes until golden.
• Make it Spicy: Add more red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño to the chimichurri for an extra kick.
• Marinating Option: You can marinate the cauliflower steaks in olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and spices for 15-20 minutes before roasting or grilling to enhance the flavor.