Cauliflower Delight with Zesty Mustard Cheese Sauce
Elevate your cauliflower experience with this delectable dish that transforms ordinary cauliflower into a zesty, creamy delight! The combination of tangy mustard and rich mayonnaise creates a mouthwatering sauce that clings to every nook and cranny of the tender cauliflower. Topped with melted cheddar cheese, this dish is not only quick and easy to prepare but also a wonderful way to introduce even the most skeptical eaters to the joys of cauliflower. Serve it as a side dish or a vegetarian main course, and watch it become a new favorite at your table!
6
Servings
N/A
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
cauliflower head
1 (Remove leaves and wash thoroughly.)
mayonnaise
1/2 cup (None)
minced dried onion
1/4 teaspoon (None)
prepared mustard
1 teaspoon (None)
cheddar cheese, shredded
1/2 cup (None)
Instructions
1
Begin by carefully removing the leaves from the cauliflower head and washing it well under running water to eliminate any dirt or impurities.
2
Place the cleaned cauliflower on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with microwave-safe plastic wrap. Be sure it’s secure to trap the steam for cooking.
3
Microwave the cauliflower on High for approximately 13-18 minutes. The cooking time will depend on the size of the cauliflower. Check for tenderness by piercing it gently with a fork. Once tender, remove the plastic wrap carefully to avoid steam burns.
4
In a small mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, minced dried onion, and prepared mustard. Mix well to create a smooth and tangy sauce.
5
Spread the mustard sauce generously over the top and sides of the cooked cauliflower, making sure to coat it evenly.
6
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the sauced cauliflower, allowing it to cover as much as possible.
7
Return the cauliflower to the microwave, this time uncovered, and heat on High for 1 more minute or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8
Once done, remove the cauliflower from the microwave and let it cool slightly before cutting it into wedges for serving.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Cauliflower Delight with Zesty Mustard Cheese Sauce?
It is a vegetable dish that transforms a whole head of cauliflower into a creamy, tangy side or main course using a mustard-mayo sauce and melted cheddar.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe is designed to serve 6 people.
What are the five main ingredients?
The ingredients are a head of cauliflower, mayonnaise, minced dried onion, prepared mustard, and shredded cheddar cheese.
How is the cauliflower cooked?
The cauliflower is steamed in a microwave on a microwave-safe plate covered with plastic wrap.
What is the initial cooking time for the cauliflower?
It should be microwaved on High for approximately 13 to 18 minutes depending on its size.
How do I know if the cauliflower is cooked?
You can check for tenderness by gently piercing the cauliflower with a fork.
What safety precaution should I take after microwaving?
Be very careful when removing the plastic wrap to avoid burns from the trapped steam.
How do I prepare the cauliflower before cooking?
Carefully remove the leaves and wash the head thoroughly under running water.
What goes into the zesty sauce?
The sauce is a mixture of mayonnaise, minced dried onion, and prepared mustard.
How do I apply the mustard sauce?
Spread the sauce generously and evenly over the top and sides of the tender, cooked cauliflower.
When do I add the cheese?
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the cauliflower after it has been coated with the mustard sauce.
How long does it take to melt the cheese?
Microwave the sauced and cheesed cauliflower uncovered for 1 additional minute.
How should the dish be served?
After a brief cooling period, cut the whole cauliflower into wedges for serving.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this dish is categorized as a vegetarian vegetable recipe.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
While the recipe calls for cheddar, you could substitute other melting cheeses like Monterey Jack or Colby.
Is this a quick recipe?
Yes, it is designed as a quick and easy microwave preparation.
What type of mustard is best?
The recipe specifies prepared mustard, which usually refers to standard yellow or Dijon mustard.
Can this be served as a main course?
Yes, it can be served as either a side dish or a vegetarian main course.
Does this recipe require an oven?
No, this recipe is specifically designed for microwave preparation.
What is the purpose of the plastic wrap?
The plastic wrap traps steam, which helps cook the whole cauliflower head evenly and quickly.
Can I use fresh onion instead of dried?
Yes, though you should mince it very finely to ensure it integrates well into the creamy sauce.
Is the cauliflower cooked whole?
Yes, the recipe instructions describe cooking and saucing the cauliflower as a whole head.
What makes the sauce 'zesty'?
The combination of tangy prepared mustard and dried onion provides the zesty flavor profile.
How much mayonnaise is required?
You will need 1/2 cup of mayonnaise for the sauce.
How much cheese is used in the topping?
The recipe calls for 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
Is this a good recipe for picky eaters?
Yes, the creamy and cheesy topping is a great way to introduce cauliflower to skeptical eaters.
What tags are associated with this dish?
Tags include cauliflower, vegetarian, sides, cheese sauce, microwave, and comfort food.
What is the amount of dried onion needed?
The recipe requires 1/4 teaspoon of minced dried onion.
Can I make this in advance?
It is best served fresh while the cheese is melted and the cauliflower is hot.
Should I leave the cauliflower covered when melting the cheese?
No, the instructions state to return it to the microwave uncovered for the final minute.