Description
Crispy Parmesan Cauliflower Bites are a delicious and healthy appetizer featuring tender cauliflower florets coated in a seasoned Parmesan breadcrumb mixture and baked to golden perfection. These bites are perfect for snacking or serving as a flavorful starter, offering a satisfying crunch and savory taste with minimal oil.
Ingredients
Scale
Cauliflower Bites
- 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko recommended)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for drizzling or spraying)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure the cauliflower bites cook evenly without sticking.
- Prepare Coating Mixture: In a shallow bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. This flavorful mixture will give the bites their crispy, savory crust.
- Whisk Eggs: In another bowl, whisk the two large eggs until smooth and consistent, which will help the breadcrumb mixture adhere to the cauliflower.
- Coat Cauliflower: Dip each cauliflower floret into the beaten eggs, ensuring it is fully coated. Then, press the floret into the breadcrumb mixture so the coating sticks well to all sides.
- Arrange and Oil: Place the coated cauliflower florets in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle or lightly spray with olive oil to help them achieve a golden, crispy texture when baked.
- Bake: Bake the cauliflower bites for 20 to 25 minutes, turning them once halfway through cooking. Continue baking until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and serve the bites hot. They are perfect with your favorite dipping sauces such as marinara, ranch, or spicy aioli.
Notes
- For extra crunch, toast the breadcrumbs lightly before mixing with other ingredients.
- These bites are delicious paired with marinara, ranch dressing, or spicy aioli sauces.
- To prepare in an air fryer, cook at 400°F for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through cooking for even crispiness.
