Cauliflower steaks? They sound a bit fancy, right?
T1But we promise they're as fun as they are delicious.
Picture this: we're whipping up dinner, and we decide to swap out our usual meat for these veggie marvels (cauliflower steaks are thick cross-cut slices of cauliflower, Brassica oleracea var. botrytis, typically roasted or grilled until tender).
They make for a perfect centerpiece on our plates. Plus, they soak up flavors like a sponge.
Talk about score!
Whether you're grilling, roasting, or sautéing, these steaks are ready to take on all sorts of sass from our favourite spices and sauces.
We've been amazed at how versatile they are. So let's chat about the best side dishes to serve them with.
Get ready to improve that dinner vibe without breaking a sweat.
Top 13 Side Dishes for Cauliflower Steaks
Here are some tasty ideas to pair with your cauliflower steaks:
1 - Wild Rice Salad
We should all be eating wild rice salad more often. This dish gives a nutty flavor (wild rice is an aquatic grass, not a true rice) that brings life to any meal.
Its chewy texture adds a pop of interest, and you can load it with veggies for that extra crunch.
We love how it goes well with a light vinaigrette. The burst of freshness from herbs and veggies takes it to another level.
Toss in some nuts for a bit of richness, and you've got a side dish that's simply irresistible.
2 - Chimichurri Sauce
Chimichurri sauce is like a flavor party in a jar. We've got that zesty bite from fresh parsley (Petroselinum crispum) alongside a kick from garlic and red pepper flakes.
It's the perfect companion to our cauliflower steaks - see these chimichurri-friendly sides for grilled dishes.
We love how it adds some freshness without being overwhelming. Just drizzle a little on and watch your meal transform like magic!
3 - Roasted Cherry Tomatoes
Roasted cherry tomatoes are a fantastic side dish. They become sweet and juicy with a bit of roasting magic (concentrating their natural umami).
We love how they burst with flavor in your mouth.
A sprinkle of salt and a dash of olive oil go a long way. These little gems add a pop of freshness to any meal.
Toss them in with herbs for a little extra zing.
4 - Lemon Herb Quinoa
We love lemon herb quinoa for its bright zing and upbeat vibe, a flavor that also complements lemony sides for citrus desserts.
The nutty quinoa (a gluten-free seed originating from the Andes) pairs nicely with herbs like parsley and a drizzle of olive oil. It's light yet hearty, making it the perfect companion to our cauliflower steaks.
Nothing like a sprinkle of lemon juice to liven up our meal!
5 - Garlic Roasted Chickpeas
Garlic roasted chickpeas are a crunchy and flavorful side. We love how they turn crispy in the oven with that lovely garlic aroma wafting around.
Coated in olive oil (use about 1 tablespoon olive oil per cup of chickpeas) and seasoned simply with salt, these little bites become addictive.
They pack a savory punch with each bite, perfect for dipping or snacking. Add a sprinkle of paprika for a subtle kick.
These guys are awesome, whether they're chillin' next to our cauliflower steaks, standing alone as a snack, or paired with garlicky sides for rich seafood.
6 - Grilled Portobello Mushrooms
Grilled portobello mushrooms are fantastic. They have a rich, meaty flavor (mature Agaricus bisporus mushrooms) that can easily upstage any protein.
When grilled, they develop a smoky aroma and juicy texture that we love.
A drizzle of balsamic glaze enhances their earthiness. The mushrooms soak it all up, creating an irresistible combo.
Serve them fresh off the grill for a side dish that impresses with minimal effort.
Each bite is a tasty experience we can't resist.
7 - Sweet Potato Fries
Sweet potato fries are a delicious twist on the classic side we all know and love. These fries hit the perfect balance between sweet and salty (sweet potatoes are high in beta-carotene), giving us a comforting snack.
They get crispy on the outside while staying fluffy inside. We love tossing them with spices like paprika and garlic for that extra flair.
Dipping them in a tangy sauce makes them even better. Just thinking about them makes our mouths water!
8 - Pesto Zoodles
Pesto zoodles are a fun spin on your classic pasta dish. We love how they bring a fresh twist by swapping out the carbs for something light and zesty.
The basil pesto adds a punchy herb flavor (Ocimum basilicum) that we find irresistible.
When we toss our spiralized zucchini with that bright green sauce, it's a match made in heaven. Plus, they cook up in no time, making weeknight dinners breeze!
9 - Avocado Salsa
Avocado salsa is a fresh side that brings fun to our meals. Its creamy texture contrasts perfectly with the zing of lime and the heat from jalapeños.
We love how the diced tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum) add brightness and juicy bursts in every bite. It's like a party of flavors celebrating in a bowl.
Serve it alongside anything for a refreshing lift, or just grab a chip and dig in.
10 - Turmeric Roasted Cauliflower
Turmeric roasted cauliflower is a bright side dish that packs in flavour! The earthy and slightly peppery notes of turmeric (Curcuma longa) shine through as the cauliflower roasts.
We appreciate how the golden hue adds a splash of colour to our plate.
The roasting process brings out the natural sweetness of the cauliflower, creating a nice contrast.
A little olive oil and a sprinkle of salt enhance everything without overwhelming the dish.
11 - Spinach and Strawberry Salad
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We love a good spinach and strawberry salad. The sweetness of strawberries plays off the earthiness of fresh spinach (Spinacia oleracea).
This salad adds crunch with some nuts for extra texture.
A drizzle of balsamic vinaigrette pulls everything together. It's a refreshing side that's perfect for summer meals.
Each bite combines the bright flavors of fruit with a hint of creamy feta for richness.
12 - Roasted Red Pepper Hummus
Roasted red pepper hummus is a dip we can't get enough of. It's creamy, with a smoky flavor that really stands out.
The sweetness of the roasted peppers (Capsicum annuum) blends perfectly with tahini and garlic. Each bite gives us that savory kick we crave, making it a great pairing for veggies or pita.
We love how it's a flavorful twist on regular hummus. It certainly makes snacking more exciting!
13 - Parmesan Polenta Fries
Parmesan polenta fries are crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside (polenta is made from coarsely ground cornmeal). We love how they bring a savory cheese flavor that's hard to resist.
They're seasoned just right, with a touch of garlic and a sprinkle of herbs for that extra oomph.
These fries hold their shape well and go well with dips. We can't get enough of that cheesy goodness in every crispy bite!
Perfect as a side or snack anytime.
Andrew Gray is a seasoned food writer and blogger with a wealth of experience in the restaurant and catering industries. With a passion for all things delicious, Andrew has honed his culinary expertise through his work as a personal chef and caterer.
His love for food led him to venture into food writing, where he has contributed to various online publications, sharing his knowledge and insights on the culinary world. As the proud owner of CooksCrafter.com, Andrew covers a wide range of topics, including recipes, restaurant reviews, product recommendations, and culinary tips.
Through his website, he aims to inspire and educate fellow food enthusiasts, offering a comprehensive resource for all things food-related.
