This oven-baked cauliflower dish is a quick and easy recipe that transforms simple ingredients into a creamy, flavorful side dish. Coated in a rich mixture of sour cream, cheese, and spices, the cauliflower florets become tender and deliciously golden. It’s perfect for a light dinner, as a side, or even as a tasty snack. Let’s get started with this simple yet delicious recipe!
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Cauliflower: 1.3 lbs (600 g), separated into bite-sized florets
- Egg: 1 large
- Sour Cream: 5.3 oz (150 g)
- Salt: to taste
- Black Pepper: to taste
- Dried Garlic: to taste
- Cheese: 1.8 oz (50 g), grated
- Olive Oil: as needed for greasing
Yield: 4-6 servings
Total Time: 35 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Cauliflower
- Separate the Florets: Start by cutting the cauliflower into small, bite-sized florets. This ensures that they cook evenly and are easy to eat.
2. Boil the Cauliflower
- Blanch the Cauliflower: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cauliflower florets and blanch them for 1 to 2 minutes. This quick boil will slightly soften the cauliflower, making it tender without losing its crunch.
- Drain and Cool: Drain the cauliflower and let it cool slightly while you prepare the creamy mixture.
3. Prepare the Creamy Mixture
- Mix Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together 1 egg, 5.3 oz (150 g) of sour cream, 1.8 oz (50 g) of grated cheese, a pinch of salt, a dash of black pepper, and some dried garlic. Mix until smooth and well combined.
4. Combine Cauliflower and Creamy Mixture
- Coat the Cauliflower: Add the blanched cauliflower florets to the creamy mixture. Gently fold the cauliflower into the mixture, making sure each piece is well-coated.
5. Grease the Baking Dish
- Grease the Dish: Generously grease a baking dish with olive oil. This prevents the cauliflower from sticking and makes for easy cleanup.
6. Bake the Cauliflower
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the cauliflower and creamy mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
7. Baking Time
- Preheat and Bake: Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F). Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. Check occasionally; the dish is ready when the cauliflower is golden brown and the top is slightly crispy.
8. Serve and Enjoy
- Serve Warm: Remove the baked cauliflower from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. It’s best enjoyed warm, straight from the oven, as a side dish or a light meal.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving, Based on 6 Servings)
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Protein: 5 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Sugars: 3 g
- Total Fat: 8 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 45 mg
- Sodium: 150 mg
Tips for the Best Oven-Baked Cauliflower
- Blanching: Blanching the cauliflower helps to soften it slightly, ensuring that it bakes evenly and absorbs the flavors of the creamy mixture.
- Cheese Choice: Use a flavorful cheese like cheddar, Parmesan, or Gruyère for extra taste. You can also add more cheese on top before baking for a golden, cheesy crust.
- Customize Seasonings: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your taste. Adding herbs like thyme, rosemary, or fresh parsley can elevate the flavor profile of the dish.
This simple oven-baked cauliflower recipe is a great way to enjoy vegetables in a delicious and creamy way. With its crispy, cheesy top and tender cauliflower florets, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation. Enjoy baking and sharing this easy and nutritious dish!
