Crispy Cheesy Roasted Cauliflower Bites

Ingredients

For the cauliflower

• 1 large head cauliflower, cut into florets
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp paprika
• ½ tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp salt
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

Creamy dipping sauce

• ½ cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
• 2 tbsp mayonnaise
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 small garlic clove, minced
• 1 tbsp chopped parsley or dill
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• Pinch of salt

 Instructions

1. Preheat oven: Heat to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Prepare cauliflower: Wash and dry the cauliflower thoroughly, then cut into medium-sized florets.
3. Season: Toss cauliflower with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
4. Add cheese: Mix in the Parmesan and mozzarella, making sure the florets are well coated.
5. Roast: Spread cauliflower in a single layer. Roast for 20–25 minutes, turning once halfway through.
6. Make it extra crispy: Broil for 1–2 minutes at the end, watching carefully, until the cheese is golden.
7. Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh parsley.
8. Make the dip: Mix Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, garlic, herbs, salt, and pepper.
9. Serve: Serve the hot crispy cauliflower bites with the creamy dip.

 Quick Details

• Prep: 10 minutes
• Cook: 20–25 minutes
• Total: 30–35 minutes
• Servings: 4

Approximate Nutrition Per Serving

• Calories: 250–300 kcal
• Protein: 12–15 g
• Carbohydrates: 14–18 g
• Fat: 17–20 g
• Fiber: 4–5 g

 Nut & Allergen Information

• Peanuts: None
• Tree nuts: None
• Dairy: Yes — Parmesan, mozzarella, and Greek yogurt/sour cream
• Egg: May be present in mayonnaise
• Gluten: Naturally gluten-free, but check seasoning and mayonnaise labels
• Soy: Check packaged mayonnaise/cheese labels

 Q&A

Q: Can I make these in an air fryer?
Yes. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for about 12–16 minutes, shaking halfway through.

Q: Can I use only Parmesan?
Yes. Parmesan will give a crispier, more browned coating.

Q: Can I use frozen cauliflower?
Yes, but thaw and dry it very well first to prevent sogginess.

Q: How do I make them extra crispy?
Dry the cauliflower thoroughly, avoid overcrowding the tray, and use the broiler briefly at the end.

Q: Can I make them without the dip?
Yes. They are delicious on their own or served with marinara or another dipping sauce.