This dish is abstract art on a plate. Picture a series of golden-brown cauliflower slices laying on a bed of Mediterranean green pesto, chunks of molten mozzarella decorating its surface. Every slice is adorned with halved cherry tomatoes, their bright red skin providing a blow of color potency. All garnished with fresh basil leaves, dark and emerald.

Roasted Cauliflower Steak Pizzaiola

Name: Roasted Cauliflower Steak Pizzaiola
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 large head of cauliflower cut into 1-inch thick slices; 2 cups cherry tomatoes halved; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 cup fresh basil pesto; extra virgin olive oil; fresh basil leaves for garnish; sea salt and ground black pepper to taste

Bold, Italian, cauliflower-centric fusion

Category Main Course

Prep 15 minutes

Cook 30 minutes

Style Italian

Technique Roasting

Diet Friendly Vegetarian

Daily recipe · August 18, 2023

A little about this dish

This is a delightful recipe that reflects Italian cuisine's hearty warmth while keeping a keen eye on seasonal vegetables. Our star ingredient, cauliflower, shines in this dish, and you will love its rich flavor profile elevated through roasting. The balance of melted mozzarella and pesto adds an Italian flair, while the cherry tomatoes bring a burst of youthful vibrancy.

Ingredients (for 4)

Large head of cauliflower — 1 — cut into 1-inch thick slices
Cherry tomatoes — 2 cups — halved
Shredded mozzarella cheese — 2 cups
Fresh basil pesto — 1 cup
Extra virgin olive oil —
Fresh basil leaves — — for garnish
Sea salt and ground black pepper — — to taste

Preparation

Step 1 — 🌡️🔥📄

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2 — 🥦🖌️🧂

Brush both sides of the cauliflower slices with olive oil. Season with salt and pepper, then place them onto the baking sheet.
Step 3 — 🔥⏲️🥦

Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the cauliflower becomes tender and slightly browned.
Step 4 — 🌿🧀🍅

Spread pesto evenly over cauliflower slices, then sprinkle with shredded mozzarella and cherry tomatoes.
Step 5 — 🧀🔥⏱️

Return the baking tray to the oven and broil for 3-5 minutes, or until cheese is melted to your liking.
Step 6 — 🌿🍽️😋

Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

A final fox tip

For a dairy-free version, replace mozzarella with a vegan cheese that melts well. Don't underestimate the cauliflower's thickness; one-inch slices ensure they can stand up to roasting without falling apart. Use children-friendly tasks in this recipe like spreading pesto or sprinkling mozzarella on the cauliflower slices.