Cauliflower steaks are thick-cut slabs of cauliflower, roasted until golden and tender, then topped with a bright, zesty chimichurri sauce bursting with herbs, garlic, and chili. This dish is plant-forward, gluten-free, and perfect for a light entrée or hearty side, showcasing just how satisfying vegetables can be when treated with love.
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Yields2 ServingsPrep Time15 minsCook Time35 minsTotal Time50 mins
For the Cauliflower
1large head of cauliflower
2tbspolive oil
½tspsmoked paprika (optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Chimichurri Sauce
1cupfresh parsley (packed)
¼cupfresh cilantro (optional, or more parsley)
2clovesgarlic
½tspred pepper flakes (or to taste)
2tbspred wine vinegar
½cupolive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
Juice of ½ lemon (optional, for added brightness)
Prep the Cauliflower
1
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
Remove the outer leaves of the cauliflower but keep the core intact.
Slice the cauliflower into ¾- to 1-inch thick “steaks.” You’ll get 2–3 full steaks; remaining florets can be roasted alongside.
Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet, brush both sides with olive oil, and season with salt, pepper, and paprika if using.
Roast
2
Roast cauliflower for 30–35 minutes, flipping once halfway through, until golden and tender with crisp edges.
Make the Chimichurri
3
In a food processor or blender, combine parsley, cilantro (if using), garlic, red pepper flakes, and red wine vinegar. Pulse until roughly chopped.
Stream in olive oil and lemon juice, pulsing until you get a slightly chunky sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve
4
Plate roasted cauliflower steaks and spoon chimichurri generously over the top.
Garnish with extra herbs or lemon zest if desired.
Suggested Pairings
5
Serve with quinoa, couscous, or grilled polenta
Pairs beautifully with roasted carrots or a citrusy arugula salad
Add toasted pine nuts or crumbled feta for extra flair
Ingredients
For the Cauliflower
1large head of cauliflower
2tbspolive oil
½tspsmoked paprika (optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Chimichurri Sauce
1cupfresh parsley (packed)
¼cupfresh cilantro (optional, or more parsley)
2clovesgarlic
½tspred pepper flakes (or to taste)
2tbspred wine vinegar
½cupolive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
Juice of ½ lemon (optional, for added brightness)
Directions
Prep the Cauliflower
1
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
Remove the outer leaves of the cauliflower but keep the core intact.
Slice the cauliflower into ¾- to 1-inch thick “steaks.” You’ll get 2–3 full steaks; remaining florets can be roasted alongside.
Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet, brush both sides with olive oil, and season with salt, pepper, and paprika if using.
Roast
2
Roast cauliflower for 30–35 minutes, flipping once halfway through, until golden and tender with crisp edges.
Make the Chimichurri
3
In a food processor or blender, combine parsley, cilantro (if using), garlic, red pepper flakes, and red wine vinegar. Pulse until roughly chopped.
Stream in olive oil and lemon juice, pulsing until you get a slightly chunky sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve
4
Plate roasted cauliflower steaks and spoon chimichurri generously over the top.
Garnish with extra herbs or lemon zest if desired.
Suggested Pairings
5
Serve with quinoa, couscous, or grilled polenta
Pairs beautifully with roasted carrots or a citrusy arugula salad
Add toasted pine nuts or crumbled feta for extra flair