Grilled Garlic Cauliflower Steaks

These Grilled Garlic Cauliflower Steaks are a healthy, flavorful alternative to meat steaks. Marinated in a savory garlic soy sauce and grilled to crispy perfection, they’re topped with melted cheese and fresh herbs for a delicious, satisfying dish. Whether served as a main course or a side, these cauliflower steaks are sure to impress with their smoky flavor and tender texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish offers all the charred, smoky goodness of a grilled steak, but in a lighter, plant-based form. The cauliflower steaks are marinated in a mouthwatering garlic soy sauce with a blend of spices, then grilled to perfection with crispy edges and a tender interior. The cheese melts beautifully on top, adding richness, while the fresh herbs bring a burst of flavor. It’s a versatile dish that’s perfect for vegetarians, vegans (with dairy-free cheese), or anyone looking to try something new and healthy.

Ingredients

• 1 medium head of cauliflower, sliced about ½” thick

• ¼ cup oil (olive oil or vegetable oil)

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce

• ½ teaspoon dried thyme (or herbs of choice)

• ½ teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning

• ½ teaspoon chili powder

• ½ teaspoon onion powder

• Kosher salt, to taste

• Black pepper, to taste

• ½ cup cheese (feta, cotija, parmesan, cheddar)

• 2 tablespoons minced parsley or cilantro

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

Directions

1. Preheat the Grill:

• Preheat your grill to medium-high to high heat. Scrape the grill grates to ensure they are clean.

2. Prepare the Marinade:

• In a bowl, combine the oil, minced garlic, soy sauce, dried thyme, lemon pepper seasoning, chili powder, and onion powder. Whisk the ingredients together to make a marinade.

3. Marinate the Cauliflower:

• Brush the marinade on both sides of the cauliflower steaks. Sprinkle with kosher salt and black pepper to taste.

4. Grill the Cauliflower:

• Gently place the marinated cauliflower steaks on the preheated grill. Cook for about 2-4 minutes per side, or until the edges are charred and crispy. Flip the steaks carefully to prevent them from falling apart.

5. Add the Cheese:

• Remove the cauliflower steaks from the grill and place them on a platter. While the cauliflower is still hot, immediately sprinkle with your choice of cheese so it can melt.

6. Garnish and Serve:

• Garnish with freshly minced parsley or cilantro and serve hot.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 servings

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 10 minutes

• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Cheese Options: Feel free to use any cheese you prefer! Feta, cotija, parmesan, or cheddar all work well, depending on your taste. For a dairy-free version, try using vegan cheese.

• Spicy Kick: For extra heat, add more chili powder or sprinkle with red pepper flakes before grilling.

• Herb Variations: Instead of thyme, you can use rosemary, oregano, or even a mix of your favorite herbs.

• Roasted Cauliflower Option: If you prefer, you can roast the cauliflower steaks in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes until tender and crispy around the edges.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover cauliflower steaks can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat the cauliflower steaks in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes, or until warmed through. If you like, you can broil them for an additional minute or two to re-crisp the edges.

FAQs

1. Can I use cauliflower florets instead of steaks?

Yes, you can use cauliflower florets, but the cooking time may vary. They’ll need less time on the grill, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.

2. Can I make this recipe without a grill?

If you don’t have a grill, you can make these cauliflower steaks in a grill pan on the stovetop or roast them in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes.

3. Can I make the marinade ahead of time?

Yes, the marinade can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

4. Can I make this dish spicy?

Yes, if you prefer a spicy kick, add more chili powder, cayenne pepper, or some chopped fresh chili to the marinade.

5. Can I use a different seasoning instead of the ones listed?

Definitely! You can adjust the seasonings to your taste. Try using smoked paprika for a different flavor or adding some garlic powder for extra richness.

6. What type of cheese should I use?

You can use any cheese you like! Feta, cotija, parmesan, or cheddar are great options, but feel free to experiment with your favorites.

7. Can I serve this as a main dish?

Yes, these grilled cauliflower steaks make a great vegetarian main course. You can serve them with a side of rice or quinoa for a complete meal.

8. Can I use frozen cauliflower?

Fresh cauliflower will yield the best results for this recipe, but you can use frozen cauliflower in a pinch. Just be sure to thaw it thoroughly and dry it before grilling to avoid excess moisture.

9. How do I prevent the cauliflower steaks from falling apart on the grill?

To keep the cauliflower steaks intact, make sure to cut them thick enough (about ½ inch) and handle them gently when flipping. Use a grill pan or a well-oiled grill grate to help with the process.

10. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the cauliflower steaks and marinade ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for a few hours before grilling. This will allow the flavors to soak into the cauliflower for an even richer taste.

Conclusion

These Grilled Garlic Cauliflower Steaks are a flavorful and healthy alternative to meat steaks, perfect for anyone looking for a lighter, plant-based option. The smoky char from the grill, combined with the rich, savory marinade, makes this dish a satisfying and mouthwatering option for any meal. Whether served as a main course or a side, these cauliflower steaks are sure to be a hit!

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