Baked Whole Cauliflower Mayonnaise Cheese Recipe
Dive into the delicious world of the Baked Whole Cauliflower Mayonnaise Cheese Recipe, a dish that's not only easy to prepare but also brings a burst of creamy, cheesy goodness to your table. Ideal for those on a low-carb or vegetarian diet, this recipe transforms the humble cauliflower into a mouth-watering centerpiece.
Brief Description of the Recipe
The Baked Whole Cauliflower Mayonnaise Cheese is a culinary delight that coats a whole head of cauliflower with a rich blend of mayonnaise, cheese, and spices, then roasts it to perfection. This dish is celebrated for its simplicity and the way it enhances the natural flavors of cauliflower with a creamy, tangy, and cheesy topping.
Cultural or Historical Context
Cauliflower has risen to fame in the low-carb and vegetarian communities for its versatility and health benefits. This particular preparation, with mayonnaise and cheese, is a modern take that caters to the desire for comforting, hearty dishes without the guilt.
Ingredients List for the Baked Whole Cauliflower Mayonnaise Cheese
- 1 lb cauliflower
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup Cheddar cheese, grated
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, vegetarian, grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce (such as Franks)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Preparation Instructions
- Preheat your oven.
- Prepare the cauliflower by removing the outer leaves and trimming the stalk.
- Boil the cauliflower briefly to soften.
- Create the cheese and mayonnaise mixture.
- Cover the cauliflower in the mixture and roast until golden.
- Serve with garnishes like chopped chives for an added touch.
Storage and Reheating
To store, place any leftovers in the refrigerator, covered tightly with foil or in an airtight container. It lasts up to 3 days and can be reheated in the oven for best results, preserving its crispy exterior and creamy interior.
Nutritional Information
Each serving contains approximately 208 calories, with 10 grams of protein, 15 grams of fat, and 10 grams of carbohydrates. It's a dish that balances indulgence with health, providing a good source of vitamins and minerals from the cauliflower.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use different types of cheese? Yes, you can experiment with various hard cheeses to find your preferred taste.
- Is homemade mayonnaise necessary? While homemade mayonnaise is recommended for its flavor and lack of added sugars, store-bought mayonnaise can be used as a convenient alternative.
- Can this recipe be made spicy? Adjust the heat by increasing the amount of hot sauce, or adding spices like chili powder to the cheese mixture.
In conclusion, the Baked Whole Cauliflower Mayonnaise Cheese recipe is a testament to the versatility of cauliflower, making it a must-try for anyone looking to add a low-carb, nutritious, yet utterly delicious dish to their repertoire. Whether you're catering to vegetarians, low-carb enthusiasts, or simply looking for a new way to enjoy cauliflower, this recipe is sure to impress.
Original recipe by Angela Coleby on Keto Vegetarian Recipes.