10+ Steamed Cauliflower Recipes for Deliciously Healthy Meals
Steamed cauliflower is a simple and healthy side dish that can easily complement any meal. It’s a versatile ingredient, and you can prepare it in various ways. Whether you enjoy it plain or with seasonings, learning different steamed cauliflower recipes can add excitement to your cooking routine.
Using fresh cauliflower not only brings a great texture to your dishes but also offers many health benefits. From enhancing your overall nutrition to providing a satisfying crunch, the possibilities are endless. With a few easy recipes, you can make steamed cauliflower a regular part of your meals.
1) Simple Cauliflower with Olive Oil & Herbs
Steamed cauliflower with olive oil and herbs is a quick and healthy side dish. It’s easy to make and full of flavor. You can enjoy it with just a few simple ingredients.
You will need fresh cauliflower, olive oil, and your favorite herbs. Feel free to experiment with seasonings like thyme or rosemary. This dish complements many meals.
To make it, simply cut the cauliflower into florets. Steam them until they are tender, about 5-7 minutes. Then, drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle herbs on top. Toss gently to coat every piece.
It’s a tasty way to add vegetables to your plate.
Ingredients
- 1 medium head of cauliflower
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs (like parsley or thyme)
Cooking Instructions
- Cut the cauliflower into medium-sized florets.
- Steam the florets for about 5-7 minutes until tender.
- Drizzle olive oil over the steamed cauliflower.
- Season with salt, pepper, and herbs.
- Toss gently to coat and serve warm.
2) Parmesan Garlic Steamed Cauliflower
Parmesan Garlic Steamed Cauliflower is a simple and tasty side dish. The combination of garlic and Parmesan gives it a wonderful flavor that everyone will enjoy.
To make this dish, you will need fresh cauliflower, garlic, olive oil, and Parmesan cheese. Steaming the cauliflower helps it stay tender while keeping its vibrant color.
Start by washing and chopping the cauliflower into small florets. Then, steam the cauliflower until it is just tender. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
Next, add minced garlic and a drizzle of olive oil. Toss the mixture until well combined. Finally, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top and serve warm.
Ingredients
- 1 head cauliflower, chopped into florets
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking Instructions
- Wash and chop the cauliflower into florets.
- Steam the cauliflower for 5-7 minutes until tender.
- Add minced garlic and olive oil to the cauliflower.
- Toss to mix well.
- Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and serve warm.
3) Cauliflower with Lemon & Parsley
This simple dish brings out the fresh flavors of cauliflower. It’s great as a side or even a light main dish.
Start by steaming your cauliflower until it’s tender. This usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes. You want it to be bright and still slightly crisp.
Next, prepare a zestful dressing with lemon juice and fresh parsley. This adds a burst of freshness that complements the cauliflower well.
Drizzle the mixture over the steamed cauliflower. If you like, sprinkle some salt and pepper to taste.
Ingredients
- 1 whole head of cauliflower, trimmed
- 3 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking Instructions
- Steam the cauliflower for 5-7 minutes until tender.
- In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, and chopped parsley.
- Drizzle the dressing over the steamed cauliflower.
- Season with salt and pepper before serving.
4) Savory Cauliflower Mash
Savory cauliflower mash is a delicious and creamy side dish. It offers a lighter alternative to traditional mashed potatoes. You can enjoy it with your favorite meat or vegetable dishes.
To make this dish, steam the cauliflower florets until they’re tender. You can use a microwave or a steamer. The key is to ensure they are soft for the best texture.
Next, blend the cauliflower with plant-based butter and Greek yogurt. This creates a rich and velvety texture. Add seasonings like salt, pepper, and herbs for more flavor.
Feel free to adjust the ingredients to suit your taste. This mash is perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
- 1 head cauliflower, cut into florets
- 2 tablespoons plant-based butter
- 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs (optional)
Cooking Instructions:
- Steam the cauliflower florets until tender, about 10 minutes.
- Transfer the cauliflower to a blender.
- Add plant-based butter and Greek yogurt.
- Blend until smooth.
- Season with salt and pepper, and stir in herbs if desired.
5) Crispy Cauliflower Balls with Cheese
Crispy cauliflower balls with cheese make a delightful snack. They are perfect for a party or as a tasty appetizer. You can enjoy these bites cheesy and crunchy, which both kids and adults will love.
To make them, you’ll need cauliflower, cheese, and some simple seasonings. These ingredients come together to create a delicious treat that you can serve hot.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cauliflower florets
- 1 cup shredded cheese (like cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs
- 1/4 cup flour
- 1 egg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying
Cooking Instructions
- Steam the cauliflower florets until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
- Allow them to cool and then mash them in a bowl.
- Add the cheese, bread crumbs, flour, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Form the mixture into small balls.
- Heat oil in a pan over medium heat (about 350°F or 175°C).
- Fry the balls until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes.
- Drain on paper towels and enjoy!
6) Herb-Infused Steamed Cauliflower
Herb-infused steamed cauliflower is a quick and tasty side dish. You can customize it with your favorite herbs for extra flavor. This recipe makes a delicious addition to any meal.
Start by chopping a head of cauliflower into florets. Steam the florets until they are tender, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes.
While the cauliflower steams, mix olive oil with herbs like parsley, thyme, and rosemary. Once the cauliflower is ready, drizzle the herb mixture over it.
Season it with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm and enjoy the fresh flavors!
Ingredients
- 1 head of cauliflower
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh herbs (parsley, thyme, rosemary)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking Instructions
- Chop the cauliflower into florets.
- Steam the florets for 8-10 minutes until tender.
- In a bowl, mix the olive oil and herbs.
- Drizzle the herb mixture over the steamed cauliflower.
- Season with salt and pepper, and serve warm.
7) Quick Cauliflower Bites
Quick cauliflower bites are a fun and simple snack. They are easy to prepare and make for a tasty treat at any time. You can enjoy them as an appetizer or with your favorite dipping sauce.
To make these bites, start by cutting cauliflower into florets. Coat the florets with olive oil and season them with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. For a spicy twist, you can add hot sauce too.
Roast the cauliflower in the oven at 475°F (245°C) until they are crispy and golden. This usually takes about 25 minutes. Remember to toss them halfway through for even cooking!
Ingredients
- 1 head of cauliflower
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Optional: hot sauce
Cooking Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C).
- Cut the cauliflower into florets.
- In a bowl, mix florets with olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Spread them on a baking sheet.
- Roast for about 25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
8) Cauliflower with Lemon Zest
This dish brightens up your meal with fresh flavors. Steamed cauliflower paired with lemon zest is a simple yet delicious side.
Start by steaming your cauliflower until tender. This usually takes about 10 minutes. The warm cauliflower will absorb the refreshing taste of the lemon.
After steaming, drizzle some olive oil over the cauliflower. Add in the lemon zest for a burst of citrus flavor. Mix it gently to coat all the pieces.
You can also sprinkle some Italian seasoning for added taste. This dish works well with various main courses. Enjoy your tasty cauliflower with lemon zest as a healthy side!
Ingredients
- 1 small head of cauliflower
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (zest from 1/2 lemon)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking Instructions
- Trim and cut the cauliflower into florets.
- Steam the florets for about 10 minutes.
- In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon zest, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Toss the steamed cauliflower in the mixture gently.
- Serve warm.
9) Buttered Cauliflower with Seasoning
Buttered cauliflower is a simple and tasty side dish. It pairs well with many meals and is quick to prepare. You’ll love how the butter enhances the flavor of the cauliflower.
To make this dish, start by steaming the cauliflower until it’s tender. This usually takes about 6-8 minutes. Once cooked, place it in a bowl and add melted butter.
For seasoning, sprinkle in salt, pepper, and garlic powder. You can also add some grated parmesan cheese for extra flavor. Toss everything together until the cauliflower is well coated.
This dish can also be garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for added freshness.
Ingredients
- 1 head cauliflower, cut into florets
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Grated parmesan cheese (optional)
Cooking Instructions
- Steam the cauliflower florets for 6-8 minutes until tender.
- Transfer the steamed cauliflower to a bowl.
- Add the melted butter, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Toss to coat the cauliflower evenly.
- If desired, sprinkle with grated parmesan cheese before serving.
10) Microwave-Cooked Cauliflower Mash
Microwave-cooked cauliflower mash is a quick and healthy alternative to traditional mashed potatoes. It is low in carbs and easy to make.
Start by cutting fresh cauliflower into small florets. Place these florets in a microwave-safe dish. You can use a Pyrex dish for best results.
Cover the dish with a lid or plate. Microwave on high for about 12 minutes. Keep an eye on it to ensure the cauliflower is tender.
Once cooked, mash it using a potato masher or fork. You can season it with salt, pepper, or your favorite herbs for added flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 medium head of cauliflower
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking Instructions
- Cut the cauliflower into small florets.
- Place florets in a microwave-safe dish and cover.
- Microwave on high for 12 minutes.
- Mash the cooked cauliflower.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.