Easy Chimichurri Cauliflower Steak Recipe: Fresh & Zesty Magic

Saucy and vibrant chimichurri brings unexpected magic to this hearty cauliflower steak dish that will surprise even dedicated meat lovers.

Robust flavors dance across thick-cut vegetable slices, creating a meal bursting with Argentine-inspired zest.

Herbs and spices combine in a verdant sauce that transforms simple produce into something extraordinary.

Bold green chimichurri drizzled generously adds complexity and depth to each caramelized slice.

Crisp edges and tender center make this plant-based option a true crowd-pleaser for any gathering.

Minimal ingredients guarantee maximum satisfaction, proving vegetables can be just as exciting as traditional proteins.

You’ll want to make this recipe again and again, trust me.

Why Chimichurri Cauliflower Steak Recipe Packs Big Flavor

• Transform Vegetables: Turn humble cauliflower into a restaurant-worthy main dish that surprises and delights with incredible flavor and presentation.
• Master Simple Techniques: Learn professional roasting methods that create golden, crispy edges while keeping the interior tender and perfectly seasoned.
• Plant-Powered Nutrition: Enjoy a hearty, nutritious vegetarian meal packed with bold herbs, healthy fats, and robust spices that satisfy like a classic protein dish.
• Versatile Crowd-Pleaser: Impress both vegetarian and meat-eating guests with a stunning centerpiece recipe that works for dinner parties, weeknight meals, and special occasions.

Chimichurri Cauliflower Steak Recipe Ingredient Guide

• Cauliflower: A hearty vegetable that serves as the primary steak-like centerpiece of this recipe.
• Olive Oil: A key ingredient that helps create a golden, crispy exterior for the cauliflower steaks.

• Salt, Black Pepper, Red Pepper Flakes: These spices provide a robust and balanced flavor profile to the cauliflower steaks.

• Parsley, Cilantro: Fresh herbs that bring bright, green flavors to the sauce.
• Garlic: Adds a pungent and aromatic depth to the chimichurri.
• Red Wine Vinegar, Extra Virgin Olive Oil: These liquid ingredients create the base and binding for the sauce.
• Lemon Juice: A final bright, acidic touch that enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

How To Make Chimichurri Cauliflower Steak Recipe Easily

Step 1: Warm Up The Oven

Set the oven to 425°F, creating a perfect roasting environment for delicious cauliflower steaks.

Step 2: Prepare Cauliflower

Cut the cauliflower heads by removing outer leaves and slicing thick vertical pieces about 1-inch thick.

Step 3: Coat With Flavor

• Olive oil
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Red pepper flakes

Ensure complete and even coverage of seasonings.

Step 4: Arrange For Roasting

Place seasoned cauliflower steaks on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between slices for even cooking.

Step 5: Roast To Perfection

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through until edges turn golden and crispy.

Step 6: Create Chimichurri Sauce

• Chopped parsley
• Chopped cilantro
• Minced garlic
• Red wine vinegar
• Extra virgin olive oil

Whisk until ingredients combine smoothly.

Step 7: Brighten The Dish

Remove cauliflower from oven and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the steaks.

Step 8: Final Touch

Spoon chimichurri sauce generously over warm cauliflower steaks, covering completely.

Step 9: Serve And Enjoy

Present the herb-infused cauliflower steaks as a stunning plant-based main course, ready to impress.

Tips For Cooking Chimichurri Cauliflower Steak Recipe Right

• Select fresh, firm cauliflower heads with tight, compact florets for the best roasting results.
• Cut thick, uniform steaks to ensure even cooking and prevent crumbling during preparation.
• Drizzle olive oil generously and massage into cauliflower surfaces for maximum flavor absorption and crispy edges.
• Experiment with additional spices like smoked paprika or cumin to enhance the chimichurri's depth and complexity.
• Allow chimichurri sauce to rest for 10-15 minutes before serving to intensify herb and garlic flavors, creating a more robust condiment.

New Takes On Chimichurri Cauliflower Steak Recipe

• Mediterranean Fusion: Replace chimichurri with za'atar seasoning and tzatziki sauce, adding a Greek-inspired flavor profile with yogurt, cucumber, and fresh herbs.
• Spicy Korean Edition: Swap chimichurri for gochujang glaze, incorporating sesame oil, green onions, and toasted sesame seeds for a bold, tangy Korean-style cauliflower steak.
• Smoky Southwest Style: Transform the recipe by using chipotle powder, smoked paprika, and a cilantro-lime crema, creating a southwestern-inspired vegetarian main dish with deep, complex flavors.
• Pesto Power Plate: Replace chimichurri with homemade basil pesto, adding toasted pine nuts and extra parmesan cheese for a rich, herbaceous Italian-inspired version of the cauliflower steak.

Best Pairings For Chimichurri Cauliflower Steak Recipe

• Complement Cauliflower's Rich Flavors: Explore Perfect Pairings
• – Crisp White Wine Pairing: Select a zesty sauvignon blanc or dry riesling to cut through the herbal chimichurri and complement the roasted cauliflower's earthy notes.
• – Fresh Mediterranean Salad Partner: Toss a light cucumber and tomato salad with feta cheese and olive oil to balance the steak's robust spiciness and provide refreshing contrast.
• – Protein-Packed Quinoa Companion: Serve alongside herbed quinoa pilaf to add protein and create a complete vegetarian meal with complementary textures and Mediterranean-inspired flavors.

Store Chimichurri Cauliflower Steak Recipe Like A Pro

• Refrigerate: Store leftover cauliflower steaks in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Separate chimichurri sauce into a different sealed container to maintain crispness.
• Freeze: Wrap individual cauliflower steaks tightly in plastic wrap, then place in freezer-safe bags. Freeze for maximum 1 month. Thaw overnight in refrigerator before reheating.
• Oven Reheat: Restore crispiness by placing steaks on baking sheet at 375°F for 10-12 minutes. Sprinkle additional olive oil to prevent drying and revive texture.
• Microwave Option: Quick reheat for 1-2 minutes, but expect softer texture. Add fresh chimichurri sauce after warming to boost flavor and moisture.

Chimichurri Cauliflower Steak Recipe Questions Solved

• What makes chimichurri sauce unique?

Chimichurri is a traditional Argentine sauce with bright, tangy flavors from fresh herbs like parsley and cilantro, combined with garlic, vinegar, and olive oil, creating a zesty and vibrant condiment.

• Can I use different herbs in the chimichurri?

While traditional chimichurri uses parsley and cilantro, you can experiment with herbs like oregano or mint to customize the sauce’s flavor profile, but keep the core ingredients consistent.

• How do I ensure my cauliflower steaks don't fall apart?

Use a sharp knife and cut thick, vertical slices from the center of the cauliflower head, keeping the core intact. This helps maintain the steak’s structure during roasting.

Chimichurri Cauliflower Steak Recipe

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4.9 from 38 reviews

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Succulent Chimichurri Cauliflower Steak delivers a bold Argentine-inspired vegetarian centerpiece that celebrates plant-based elegance. Herbaceous green sauce and perfectly roasted cauliflower create a mouthwatering experience you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 2 heads cauliflower
• 4 tablespoons (60 ml) olive oil

Chimichurri Sauce Ingredients:

• 1 cup (240 ml) fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) extra virgin olive oil
• 1/4 cup (60 ml) red wine vinegar
• 4 cloves garlic, minced

Seasoning and Garnish:

• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 lemon, juiced

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 425°F, creating an optimal roasting environment for transforming whole cauliflower into succulent steaks.
2. Carefully trim cauliflower, removing outer leaves and slicing vertically into substantial 1-inch thick planks that maintain structural integrity.
3. Meticulously coat each cauliflower slice with olive oil, ensuring comprehensive surface coverage for enhanced caramelization.
4. Distribute salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes across the steaks, establishing a dynamic flavor profile.
5. Arrange seasoned cauliflower on a parchment-lined baking sheet, positioning slices with adequate spacing to promote even roasting.
6. Roast for 25-30 minutes, rotating midway through cooking process to achieve uniformly golden, crispy exterior edges.
7. Simultaneously craft chimichurri by amalgamating finely chopped parsley, cilantro, minced garlic, red wine vinegar, and extra virgin olive oil in a mixing vessel.
8. Vigorously whisk chimichurri components until herbs and liquid ingredients harmonize into a cohesive sauce.
9. Extract roasted cauliflower from oven and immediately brighten with fresh lemon juice, enhancing overall flavor complexity.
10. Lavishly drench warm cauliflower steaks with prepared chimichurri, ensuring comprehensive herbal coverage.
11. Present immediately as a vibrant, plant-forward culinary centerpiece bursting with aromatic herb infusion.

Notes

• Slice cauliflower carefully to maintain thick, uniform steaks that won’t crumble during roasting.
• Use a sharp chef’s knife and steady cutting technique to create clean, even cuts for perfect presentation.
• Ensure olive oil coverage helps achieve crispy, golden edges and prevents cauliflower from drying out during high-heat roasting.
• Adjust spice levels by increasing or reducing red pepper flakes to suit individual heat preferences.
• Let chimichurri sauce sit for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow flavors to develop and intensify.
• Experiment with alternative herb combinations like adding mint or oregano for unique flavor profiles.
• Transform this recipe into a gluten-free, vegan, and low-carb option that’s nutritious and satisfying.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: Roasting
• Cuisine: Argentinian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 186
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 339 mg
• Fat: 18 g
• Saturated Fat: 2 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 16 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 9 g
• Fiber: 4 g
• Protein: 3 g
• Cholesterol: 0 mg