BBQ Roasted Cauliflower Bites

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These BBQ roasted cauliflower bites are the perfect healthy veggie snack or appetizer that you’ll find yourself making again and again. Packed with smoky and tangy flavors, they are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and incredibly easy to whip up. Whether you’re hosting a party, need a quick side dish, or just want a guilt-free snack, this recipe has you covered.

Table of Contents

Chef’s Tips

Uniform florets: Chop the cauliflower into evenly sized florets to ensure they cook evenly.
Extra crispiness: For a crunchier texture, coat the florets with a mix of flour, water, breadcrumbs, and seasonings, bake for 15 minutes, then toss in BBQ sauce and bake again.
Flavor boost: Add garlic powder, onion powder, or smoked paprika to the marinade for a deeper, more complex flavor.
Breadcrumbs: Use panko breadcrumbs for a light, crispy coating.
Topping twist: Sprinkle roughly chopped walnuts on the tray during the final 5 minutes of baking for added crunch and flavor.

Ingredients

1 medium cauliflower head: Cut into bite-sized florets. Cauliflower is the star of this dish, offering a tender texture and a neutral base for the BBQ flavor.
3 tbsp barbeque sauce: Choose your favorite BBQ sauce for the perfect balance of smoky and tangy.
1 tbsp chopped parsley: For a fresh herbaceous finish that brightens the dish.
1 tbsp lemon juice: Adds a subtle tang and enhances the BBQ sauce’s flavors.
Salt and pepper to taste: Balances and elevates the seasoning.

Instructions

Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 450°F while you prepare the cauliflower.
Prepare the marinade: In a large bowl, combine the BBQ sauce, parsley, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Coat the cauliflower: Add the cauliflower florets to the bowl and toss until all the pieces are evenly coated with the marinade. Add more BBQ sauce if necessary to ensure full coverage.
Let it rest: Allow the coated cauliflower to rest for 15 minutes. This helps the flavors seep into the florets.
Bake: Spread the cauliflower evenly on a baking tray. Bake for 15 minutes or until the florets are tender inside.
Flip and finish: Flip the florets over and bake for an additional 5 minutes to achieve a crispy exterior on all sides.
Serve hot: Remove from the oven and serve immediately, garnished with extra parsley if desired.

FAQs

Can I use a different vegetable for this recipe?

Yes, this recipe is versatile! Try it with broccoli, zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers. Just adjust the cooking times based on the vegetable’s density.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover BBQ cauliflower bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. To retain their crispiness, reheat them in the oven at 375°F for 5-7 minutes instead of microwaving.

Can I make this recipe vegan or gluten-free?

This recipe is naturally vegan as long as your BBQ sauce is plant-based. For a gluten-free version, ensure your BBQ sauce and breadcrumbs (if used) are gluten-free.

Can I make the cauliflower bites in an air fryer?

Absolutely! Preheat the air fryer to 400°F and cook the coated cauliflower for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

These BBQ roasted cauliflower bites are a delicious way to add more vegetables to your meals while enjoying a flavorful snack. Perfect for parties, family dinners, or a quick snack, they’ll quickly become a favorite in your kitchen!