Name: Grilled Cauliflower Steak With Romesco Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 large head cauliflower (sliced lengthwise through the core into 4 'steaks'); 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; 1 tablespoon olive oil; to taste sea salt; 1/4 cup slivered almonds; 1/2 large tomato (chopped); 1/2 cup roasted red peppers (thinly sliced, packed); 1/2 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (for Romesco sauce); 1 teaspoon garlic (minced); 1/4 teaspoon sea salt (for Romesco sauce); 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin; to taste sliced parsley (for garnish)

Grilled Cauliflower Steak With Romesco Sauce is a vibrant, satisfying dish that brings the best of both worlds: hearty and healthy. Whether you’re looking for a meatless main or a side dish that steals the spotlight, this recipe has you covered. With the nutty, smoky flavor of the Romesco sauce paired perfectly with the tender, caramelized cauliflower steaks, every bite is a celebration of flavor. Perfect for summer barbecues or cozy dinners, this dish is sure to impress everyone at your table.

Top Reasons to Make Grilled Cauliflower Steak With Romesco Sauce

Flavor-Packed: The combination of grilled cauliflower and Romesco sauce creates a delightful medley of flavors, making it a treat for your taste buds.
Nutritious: Cauliflower is packed with vitamins and minerals, making this a healthy choice that doesn’t skimp on taste.
Easy to Make: This dish requires minimal ingredients and steps, making it perfect for both novice cooks and experienced chefs.
Versatile: Serve it as a main course, a side dish, or even as a sandwich filling. The possibilities are endless!
Vegetarian and Vegan-Friendly: This recipe caters to a variety of dietary preferences, making it inclusive for all your guests.

Ingredient List

1 large head of cauliflower, sliced lengthwise through the core into 4 “steaks”
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon olive oil
Sea salt, to taste
1/4 cup slivered almonds
1/2 large tomato, chopped
1/2 cup thinly sliced roasted red peppers, packed
1/2 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (for Romesco sauce)
1 teaspoon garlic, minced
1/4 teaspoon sea salt (for Romesco sauce)
1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
Sliced parsley, for garnish

What You’ll Need (Gear)

Grill or Grill Pan: For that perfect char and smoky flavor on the cauliflower steaks.
Blender or Food Processor: To make the Romesco sauce smooth and creamy.
Cutting Board and Knife: Essential for slicing the cauliflower and chopping ingredients.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: To ensure you get the right amounts of each ingredient.
Serving Platter: To present your beautiful grilled cauliflower steaks.

From Start to Finish: Grilled Cauliflower Steak With Romesco Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Cauliflower Steaks

Start by removing the leaves from the cauliflower head and cutting it into four thick slices. Aim for about 1 to 1.5 inches thick to ensure they hold together on the grill.

Step 2: Marinate the Steaks

In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and a pinch of sea salt. Brush this mixture over both sides of each cauliflower steak, allowing them to marinate for about 10-15 minutes.

Step 3: Grill the Cauliflower

Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the marinated cauliflower steaks on the grill. Grill for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they have nice grill marks and are tender. Remove from the grill and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Romesco Sauce

While the cauliflower is grilling, prepare the Romesco sauce. In a blender or food processor, combine the slivered almonds, chopped tomato, roasted red peppers, 1/2 tablespoon lemon juice, minced garlic, 1/4 teaspoon sea salt, and ground cumin. Blend until smooth, adjusting the consistency with a little water if necessary.

Step 5: Serve

Place the grilled cauliflower steaks on a serving platter. Generously spoon the Romesco sauce over each steak. Garnish with sliced parsley for a fresh touch.

Healthier Substitutions

Use sunflower seeds instead of slivered almonds for a nut-free option.
Replace olive oil with avocado oil for a higher smoke point.
Opt for fresh herbs like basil or cilantro for a different flavor profile.
Swap roasted red peppers with fresh bell peppers for a lighter sauce.

Avoid These Mistakes

Cutting the cauliflower steaks too thin can lead to them falling apart on the grill.
Not preheating the grill properly may result in uneven cooking.
Overcooking the cauliflower can make it mushy; aim for a tender yet firm texture.
Forgetting to season adequately can make the dish bland; don’t skip the salt and lemon juice!

Prep Ahead & Store

You can prepare the cauliflower steaks and the Romesco sauce in advance. Marinate the cauliflower and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before grilling. The Romesco sauce can also be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to a week in the fridge. Just give it a good stir before serving.

Quick Questions

Can I grill the cauliflower steaks in the oven?

Yes! If you don’t have a grill, you can roast the cauliflower steaks in the oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

What other sauces can I serve with grilled cauliflower?

Other great options include tahini sauce, pesto, or even a simple yogurt-based sauce for a creamy contrast.

Is Romesco sauce spicy?

Romesco sauce is generally not spicy; it has a rich, smoky flavor from roasted peppers and nuts. If you prefer some heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While grilled cauliflower is best when fresh, you can prepare the components ahead of time and grill just before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Ready, Set, Cook

Delicious, satisfying, and visually stunning, Grilled Cauliflower Steak With Romesco Sauce is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. The smoky, charred flavor of the cauliflower combined with the nutty, tangy Romesco sauce creates a beautiful harmony of tastes that everyone will love. Serve it at your next gathering, and watch as your guests rave about this delightful dish. It’s a simple recipe that delivers complex flavors, making it a perfect addition to your culinary repertoire. Enjoy your cooking adventure, and don’t forget to share your creations with friends and family!