Parmesan Cauliflower Bites
Parmesan Cauliflower Bites are a delicious and healthy snack that balances a crispy, cheesy coating with tender cauliflower. These easy-to-make bites offer a satisfying crunch and flavor without guilt, making them perfect as a savory snack, appetizer, or party treat. Packed with fiber and vitamins, they provide a nutritious alternative to traditional fried snacks, suitable for kids and adults alike.
- Author: Gloria
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 30-35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Main Ingredients
- 3 cups cauliflower florets (bite-sized)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (regular or gluten-free)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Olive oil or cooking spray (for crisping)
- Prepare the Cauliflower: Rinse and cut the cauliflower into bite-sized florets. Pat them very dry with a towel to remove any excess moisture, which helps the coating stick better and prevents sogginess.
- Make the Coating Mix: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, grated Parmesan, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until the mixture forms a thick, even batter capable of coating the florets well.
- Coat the Florets: Dip each cauliflower floret into the coating mixture, pressing gently to ensure the Parmesan and breadcrumbs adhere evenly on all sides for a thorough coating.
- Bake or Air Fry: Arrange the coated florets in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet or in an air fryer basket. Lightly spray with olive oil to enhance crispiness. Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes or air fry for approximately 15 minutes, until the bites turn golden brown and crunchy.
- Serve Warm: Allow the bites to cool for a couple of minutes after cooking to maximize their crunch and enjoy the melty, cheesy texture.
Notes
- Dry the cauliflower thoroughly to allow the coating to stick properly.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best melting and crisping results.
- Do not overcrowd the baking sheet or air fryer basket to ensure even cooking and maximum crunch.
- Adjust cooking times based on your oven or air fryer model to avoid burning or undercooking.
- Let the bites rest on a wire rack after cooking to prevent steam from making them soggy.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 10-12 bites)
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: Parmesan, cauliflower, bites, healthy snack, crispy, gluten-free, appetizer, vegetarian