Are you tired of the same old boring side dishes? Look no further! Steamed cauliflower is a versatile and healthy base that can be elevated with a variety of flavors. In this article, we’ll explore 18 different ways to make your taste buds dance. From classic pairings like garlic and herb to more exotic combinations like turmeric and smoked paprika, there’s something for everyone.
We’ll start by highlighting the simplicity of some of these recipes. Take Garlic Herb Steamed Cauliflower, for example, which requires just a few sprigs of fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon juice. On the other end of the spectrum, you’ll find more complex flavor profiles like Lemon Pepper Steamed Cauliflower, which incorporates a tangy lemon butter and crunchy black pepper.
Garlic Herb Steamed Cauliflower
This recipe transforms cauliflower into a flavorful and nutritious side dish perfect for any meal. The combination of garlic, herbs, and steam brings out the natural sweetness of the cauliflower, making it a delightful addition to your plate.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, bring 2 inches of water to a boil.
2. Add the cauliflower florets, garlic, olive oil, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot.
3. Cover the pot with a lid and steam for 10-12 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender.
4. Remove from heat and let it stand for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Lemon Pepper Steamed Cauliflower
Elevate your cauliflower game with this bright and citrusy recipe! This simple side dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or as a healthy addition to your favorite meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot with a steamer basket, bring 2 inches of water to a boil.
2. Add the cauliflower florets and cover the pot with a lid.
3. Steam for 5-7 minutes, or until tender but still crisp.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
5. Remove the cauliflower from the heat and toss with the lemon mixture.
6. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Turmeric Spiced Steamed Cauliflower
Elevate your mealtime with this flavorful and nutritious recipe that combines the earthy sweetness of cauliflower with the warm, spicy flavors of turmeric. This simple yet impressive side dish is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large steamer basket, place the cauliflower florets.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, turmeric, salt, and black pepper.
3. Pour the spice mixture over the cauliflower, tossing to coat evenly.
4. If using garlic, sprinkle it over the cauliflower.
5. Steam for 10-12 minutes or until tender, but still crisp.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Steamed Cauliflower with Parmesan Cheese
A simple and flavorful side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses. This recipe brings out the natural sweetness of cauliflower while adding a rich, savory note from the Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons of water
– 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: garlic powder or lemon zest for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Fill a pot with 2 inches of water and bring to a boil.
2. Place the cauliflower florets in a steamer basket over the boiling water.
3. Cover the pot with a lid and steam the cauliflower for 5-7 minutes, or until tender.
4. Remove the cauliflower from the heat and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, add garlic powder or lemon zest for extra flavor.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Steamed Cauliflower with Butter and Chives
A simple yet elegant side dish that brings out the natural sweetness of cauliflower. This recipe is a great accompaniment to any meal, whether it’s a holiday feast or a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a pot of water to a boil. Add the cauliflower florets and cover with a lid.
2. Reduce heat to medium-low and steam for 5-7 minutes, or until tender but still crisp.
3. Remove from heat and immediately add the softened butter, stirring gently to coat the cauliflower evenly.
4. Sprinkle chopped chives over the top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Steamed Cauliflower with Tahini Drizzle
This recipe combines the tender sweetness of steamed cauliflower with the creamy richness of tahini sauce, making it a perfect side dish for any meal. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying this flavorful treat in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons tahini
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1/4 cup water
– Salt to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cauliflower and remove any leaves or stems. Break it into florets.
2. Place the cauliflower in a steamer basket over boiling water, leaving room for steam to circulate.
3. Cover and steam for 8-10 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender when pierced with a fork.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the tahini, lemon juice, and water until smooth. Season with salt to taste.
5. Serve the steamed cauliflower drizzled with the tahini sauce and garnished with parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes (steaming) + 2-3 minutes (whisking the tahini sauce)
Steamed Cauliflower with Soy Sauce and Sesame Seeds
This simple recipe brings out the natural sweetness of cauliflower while adding a savory and nutty flavor from soy sauce and sesame seeds. Perfect as a side dish or light lunch, this dish is easy to prepare and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1/4 cup sesame seeds
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cauliflower under cold water and pat dry with a paper towel.
2. Cut the cauliflower into florets and place them in a steamer basket.
3. Steam the cauliflower over boiling water for 5-7 minutes, or until tender but still crisp.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce and sesame oil.
5. Remove the cauliflower from the heat and toss with the soy sauce mixture while sprinkling sesame seeds on top.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Steamed Cauliflower with Smoked Paprika
Elevate your side dish game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the natural sweetness of cauliflower with the smoky depth of paprika.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or steamer basket, add 2 inches of water.
2. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
3. Add the cauliflower florets to the steamer basket.
4. Steam for 5-7 minutes, or until tender but still crisp.
5. Remove from heat and toss with olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Steamed Cauliflower with Curry Powder
Elevate your meals with this easy and aromatic side dish that combines the natural sweetness of cauliflower with the warm, earthy flavor of curry powder.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Place the cauliflower florets in a steamer basket over the boiling water.
3. Cover the pot with a lid and steam for 5-7 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender but still crisp.
4. In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil and curry powder.
5. Remove the cauliflower from the heat and toss it with the curry oil mixture to coat evenly.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Steamed Cauliflower with Cumin and Coriander
This recipe adds a burst of warm, aromatic spices to the simplicity of steamed cauliflower. Perfect as a side dish or added to your favorite salads.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Fill a large pot with 2 inches of water and bring to a boil.
2. Reduce heat to a simmer and place a steamer basket over the pot.
3. Add the cauliflower florets to the steamer basket and cover with a lid.
4. Steam for 5-7 minutes, or until tender but still crisp.
5. While the cauliflower is steaming, mix the olive oil, cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
6. Remove the cauliflower from the heat and toss with the spice mixture to coat.
7. Serve hot, garnished with lemon wedges or chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Steamed Cauliflower with Chili Flakes
Add a kick to your steamed cauliflower with this simple recipe that combines the natural sweetness of cauliflower with the heat of chili flakes.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Fill a large pot with 2 inches of water and bring to a boil.
2. Reduce heat to medium-low and place a steamer basket over the water.
3. Add the cauliflower florets to the basket, cover with a lid, and steam for 8-10 minutes or until tender.
4. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, salt, black pepper, and chili flakes.
5. Remove the cauliflower from the heat and toss with the spicy oil mixture.
6. If using garlic, sprinkle over the cauliflower and toss to combine.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Steamed Cauliflower with Balsamic Glaze
Elevate a simple side dish into a flavorful accompaniment to your favorite meals. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of steamed cauliflower with the tangy depth of balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze (homemade or store-bought)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the cauliflower florets and steam for 8-10 minutes, or until tender.
3. Remove the cauliflower from the heat and drain excess water.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, salt, and pepper.
5. Pour the balsamic glaze over the steamed cauliflower, tossing to coat.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
7. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Steamed Cauliflower with Olive Oil and Garlic
This recipe brings out the natural sweetness of cauliflower by steaming it to perfection, then enhancing its flavor with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of garlic. It’s a quick and easy side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cauliflower and remove any leaves or stems.
2. Cut the cauliflower into florets and place them in a steamer basket over boiling water.
3. Steam the cauliflower for 5-7 minutes, or until it’s tender but still crisp.
4. Remove the cauliflower from the heat and drizzle with olive oil.
5. Sprinkle minced garlic over the cauliflower and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Steamed Cauliflower with Fresh Dill
Elevate your vegetable game with this simple and flavorful side dish, perfect for accompanying any meal. The bright flavor of fresh dill pairs beautifully with the tender cauliflower.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons water
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Fill a medium saucepan with 2 inches of water and bring to a boil.
2. Reduce heat to a simmer and place a steamer basket over the boiling water.
3. Add cauliflower florets, cover with a lid, and steam for 5-7 minutes or until tender.
4. Remove from heat and stir in butter until melted.
5. Sprinkle chopped fresh dill and season with salt to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional dill if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Steamed Cauliflower with Coconut Milk and Lime
Elevate your cauliflower game with this simple and flavorful recipe, perfect for a light and healthy side dish or snack. The creamy coconut milk and tangy lime juice add a rich and refreshing dimension to the tender steamed cauliflower.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cauliflower florets under cold water, pat dry with a paper towel.
2. In a large steamer basket, combine the cauliflower and 2 tablespoons of water.
3. Steam over boiling water for 8-10 minutes or until tender.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the coconut milk, lime juice, and olive oil.
5. Remove the cauliflower from the heat and pour the coconut-lime mixture over the top.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Steamed Cauliflower with Ginger and Scallions
A flavorful and healthy side dish that combines the natural sweetness of cauliflower with the pungency of ginger and scallions. This simple recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a tasty accompaniment to your favorite meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 4-5 green scallions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons water
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: 1 tablespoon soy sauce or olive oil for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cauliflower florets under cold running water, then pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a large steamer basket, combine the cauliflower, grated ginger, and sliced scallions.
3. Place the steamer basket over boiling water, cover with a lid, and steam for 8-10 minutes or until the cauliflower is tender.
4. Season with salt to taste. If desired, drizzle with soy sauce or olive oil for added flavor.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Steamed Cauliflower with Mustard Sauce
This recipe brings together the tender crunch of steamed cauliflower and the tangy zip of mustard sauce, making for a quick and flavorful side dish. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can create a delicious accompaniment to your favorite meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup of whole-grain mustard
– 2 tablespoons of heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cauliflower and remove any leaves or stems.
2. Cut the head into florets and place in a steamer basket.
3. Steam the cauliflower for 8-10 minutes, until tender but still crisp.
4. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
5. Add the mustard, heavy cream, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth.
6. Serve the steamed cauliflower with the mustard sauce spooned on top. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Steamed Cauliflower with Roasted Red Pepper Dip
This recipe brings together the tender sweetness of steamed cauliflower and the smoky flavor of roasted red pepper dip, making it a perfect side dish for any meal.
Ingredients:
For the Steamed Cauliflower:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons water
– Salt to taste
For the Roasted Red Pepper Dip:
– 2 large red bell peppers
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1 teaspoon smoked paprika for added depth
Instructions:
1. Steam the cauliflower florets in a steamer basket over boiling water for 5-7 minutes or until tender.
2. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Roast the red bell peppers for 30-40 minutes, turning occasionally, until charred and blistered.
3. Remove the roasted peppers from the oven and peel off the skin. Place them in a blender with the remaining dip ingredients and blend until smooth.
4. Serve the steamed cauliflower with the roasted red pepper dip.
Cooking Time:
– Steaming time: 5-7 minutes
– Roasting time: 30-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your cooking game with these 18 mouth-watering steamed cauliflower recipes! From classic garlic herb and lemon pepper, to international-inspired flavors like turmeric spiced and curry powder-infused, there’s something for everyone. Plus, unique combinations like parmesan cheese, tahini drizzle, and smoked paprika will take your meals to the next level. Whether you’re a health enthusiast or just looking for a tasty side dish, these recipes are sure to please.
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