Description
Mediterranean herb-infused cauliflower steaks showcase robust flavors from Italian and Greek culinary traditions. Robust seasoning and expert grilling techniques deliver a memorable plant-based main course that delights palates.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 large head cauliflower (about 2.5 lbs / 1.13 kg)
- 2 tbsps olive oil
- ½ cup (120 ml) Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp ground cumin
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tbsp ground coriander
- 1 tbsp dry mustard
- 2 tsp chopped fresh oregano
- 2 tsp chopped fresh mint
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp honey
- 1 pinch cayenne
- 1 clove garlic, finely grated
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- Additional mint leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Spice Blend Preparation: Thoroughly mix ground cumin, smoked paprika, ground coriander, dry mustard, onion powder, garlic powder, cayenne, kosher salt, and black pepper in a mixing bowl.
- Grill Preparation: Heat grill to medium temperature, ensuring even cooking surface.
- Cauliflower Cutting: Slice whole cauliflower into four 1-inch thick steaks, using the core as a stabilizing base. Reserve remaining florets for future use.
- Seasoning Process: Coat cauliflower steaks with extra virgin olive oil, then generously apply spice blend, massaging to ensure complete coverage.
- Grilling Technique: Place seasoned steaks on grill, covering with a heat tent to trap moisture. Grill for 7-8 minutes per side, developing caramelized exterior and distinctive char marks.
- Yogurt Sauce Creation: Whisk Greek yogurt with chopped oregano, mint leaves, honey, lemon juice, and minced garlic. Season with salt and pepper to enhance flavor complexity.
- Plating and Finishing: Transfer grilled cauliflower steaks to serving plate, drizzle with herbed yogurt sauce. Garnish with additional fresh mint leaves for visual appeal and aromatic finish.
Notes
- Slice with Precision: Cut cauliflower into uniform 1-inch steaks by keeping the core intact to prevent florets from falling apart during grilling.
- Spice Mastery: Create a complex spice blend in advance, ensuring even coverage and maximum flavor absorption across the entire cauliflower surface.
- Moisture Technique: Use a heat tent (aluminum foil or baking sheet) while grilling to lock in moisture and promote even caramelization without burning.
- Sauce Balance: Whisk yogurt sauce ingredients thoroughly to create a harmonious blend of fresh herbs, tangy lemon, and subtle sweetness that complements the grilled cauliflower.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 22 g
- Fiber: 6 g
- Protein: 7 g
- Cholesterol: 5 mg