Parmesan Cauliflower Bites
Parmesan Cauliflower Bites are a crispy, cheesy snack that transforms simple cauliflower into a golden, flavorful treat. Perfect for healthy snacking or entertaining, these bites combine nutritious cauliflower with the rich, savory taste of parmesan cheese for an easy-to-make appetizer that everyone will love.
- Author: Nina
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh cauliflower florets (bite-sized pieces)
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil or cooking spray (for greasing)
- Prep the Cauliflower: Begin by washing and drying the cauliflower florets thoroughly. Cut into bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking and consistent bite sizes.
- Steam and Drain: Lightly steam the cauliflower until tender but not mushy. Then drain any excess moisture by pressing the florets in a clean kitchen towel, which helps the coating stick better.
- Mix the Coating: In a large bowl, combine grated parmesan, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly to create a flavorful crust mixture.
- Bind the Bites: Beat the eggs in a separate bowl, then dip each cauliflower floret into the egg, coating it well before rolling it in the parmesan-breadcrumb mixture.
- Bake to Perfection: Place the coated florets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased. Bake in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 20 minutes, turning halfway through to achieve perfect golden crispness.
Notes
- Make sure the cauliflower is very dry before coating to get the crispiest bites.
- Press the breadcrumb mixture firmly onto the florets for a better crust.
- Use panko breadcrumbs for a lighter, crunchier texture.
- Bake on a wire rack set on the baking sheet to allow heat circulation and crisp edges all over.
- Serve immediately for the best crunch.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe (approx. 6-8 bites)
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: Parmesan cauliflower bites, healthy snack, cheesy cauliflower, baked cauliflower, vegetarian appetizer