Golden Crispy Cauliflower Bites

 

Yields: 3-4 servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes

Ingredients

For the Cauliflower Bites:

• 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp onion powder

• 1 tsp paprika

• ½ tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• 1 cup milk (or plant-based alternative)

• 2 cups Panko breadcrumbs

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra savoriness)

• Olive oil spray

For the Dipping Sauce (Optional):

• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt

• 2 tbsp sriracha (adjust to taste)

• 1 tbsp honey

• 1 tbsp fresh lime juice

• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Heat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

2. Prepare the Cauliflower: Chop the cauliflower into evenly sized florets to ensure they all cook and crisp up at the same time.

3. Make the Batter: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Gradually whisk in the milk until you have a smooth, thick batter.

4. Create the Crunchy Coating: In a separate shallow bowl, combine the Panko breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan (if using).

5. Coat the Florets: Working one at a time, dip a cauliflower floret into the batter, allowing any excess to drip off. Then, transfer it to the Panko mixture and roll, pressing gently to ensure an even, generous coating. Place the coated floret on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining florets, arranging them in a single layer with a little space between each.

6. Bake to Perfection: Lightly spray all the coated florets with olive oil. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are deeply golden brown and crispy.

7. Make the Dipping Sauce: While the cauliflower bakes, stir together all the sauce ingredients in a small bowl until smooth. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

8. Serve: Enjoy the cauliflower bites immediately while they're hot and crispy, with the cool, creamy dipping sauce on the side.