Name: Cauliflower Bites
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Healthy Snack
Ingredients: 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into florets; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version); 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (or gluten-free breadcrumbs); 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 large eggs; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish); Your favorite dipping sauce (ranch, buffalo, or BBQ)

These crispy, golden-brown cauliflower bites are a tasty and healthy snack or appetizer. With a light, flavorful coating and a tender interior, they offer a delicious alternative to traditional fried snacks, while still delivering the satisfying crunch I crave. The combination of garlic, onion, and smoked paprika makes them so flavorful, and they pair perfectly with a variety of dipping sauces.

Ingredients

1 medium head cauliflower, cut into florets

1/2 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version)

1/2 cup breadcrumbs (or gluten-free breadcrumbs)

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

2 large eggs

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Your favorite dipping sauce (ranch, buffalo, or BBQ)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

In a shallow bowl, whisk together the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

In another shallow bowl, whisk the eggs.

Then In a third shallow bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese (if using).

Dip each cauliflower floret into the flour mixture, then the egg, and finally the breadcrumb mixture, making sure each piece is evenly coated.

Place the coated cauliflower bites on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil for an extra crispy texture.

Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the cauliflower bites are golden and crispy.

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with your favorite dipping sauce.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Servings: 4 servings

Variations

For a gluten-free version, swap the all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs for gluten-free alternatives.

Add a little extra heat by sprinkling some cayenne pepper or chili flakes into the breadcrumb mixture.

I sometimes mix in some nutritional yeast for a cheesy, vegan-friendly option.

If you prefer a lighter version, you can skip the Parmesan and keep the recipe dairy-free.

For a different flavor, try adding some dried Italian herbs, like oregano or thyme, to the flour mixture.

Storage/Reheating

If I have any leftover cauliflower bites, I store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I prefer using an oven or air fryer to maintain the crispy texture. I simply pop them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes or air fry them for 5 minutes until they’re heated through and crispy again.

FAQs

Can I make these cauliflower bites in advance?

Yes! You can prep and coat the cauliflower bites ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. This helps save time on the day you plan to serve them.

Can I freeze the cauliflower bites?

Definitely! After coating them, you can freeze the uncooked cauliflower bites on a baking sheet. Once they’re frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag or container and store for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen for 30-35 minutes, flipping halfway through.

How can I make these cauliflower bites spicier?

If you like spice, try adding cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the flour mixture or even sprinkle hot sauce on the bites before serving.

What’s the best dipping sauce for these cauliflower bites?

I love pairing them with ranch, buffalo sauce, or BBQ sauce. But you can get creative! Vegan ranch, blue cheese dressing, or a garlic aioli would be delicious options too.

Can I make these cauliflower bites without eggs?

Yes, you can substitute the eggs with a mixture of ground flaxseed and water or a plant-based egg replacer. This keeps the cauliflower bites vegan-friendly while still helping the coating stick.

Conclusion

These crispy cauliflower bites are a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy and flavorful snack or appetizer. They’re simple to make, customizable, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a tasty treat or a lighter option to satisfy your cravings, I highly recommend giving this recipe a try.

Recipe:

Cauliflower Bites

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Author: Sophia
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Diet: Vegan

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