Savory Cheesy Cauliflower Delight
This Savory Cheesy Cauliflower Delight transforms the often-overlooked cauliflower into a stunning centerpiece for any meal. Coated with a creamy, cheesy sauce, this dish surprises even the most skeptical cauliflower haters. Its unique whole presentation makes it an ideal option for entertaining guests, while the combination of mayonnaise, cheese, and spices creates a rich, flavorful experience. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it's also a crowd-pleaser that pairs perfectly with any main course. Your guests will be asking for this recipe long after the meal is over. Enjoy this delightful dish that proves cauliflower can be fun and delicious!
6
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
medium cauliflower head
1 (whole, cleaned)
water
1/4 cup (for steaming)
mayonnaise
1/2 cup (none)
onion powder
1 teaspoon (none)
mustard
1 teaspoon (none)
salt
1/4 teaspoon (none)
shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup (for topping)
Instructions
1
Start by thoroughly cleaning the cauliflower, removing any leaves while keeping the head intact.
2
In a microwave-safe dish, add the cleaned cauliflower and the water. Cover the dish tightly and microwave on high for 9 minutes or until the cauliflower is tender.
3
While the cauliflower is steaming, prepare the cheesy topping by combining mayonnaise, onion powder, mustard, salt, and cheddar cheese in a mixing bowl. Stir until well blended.
4
Once the cauliflower has steamed, carefully remove it from the microwave and let it cool for a minute.
5
Spread the mayonnaise mixture generously over the entire head of cauliflower, making sure to coat it evenly, similar to frosting a cake.
6
Return the topped cauliflower to the microwave and heat for an additional 1 to 1.5 minutes until the cheese melts and the sauce is warmed.
7
Serve warm as a stunning side dish or a unique centerpiece for your dining table.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Cheesy Cauliflower Delight?
It is a dish that transforms a whole cauliflower head into a flavorful centerpiece by coating it in a creamy, cheesy mayonnaise-based sauce.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe makes approximately 6 servings.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this dish is categorized as vegetarian.
What are the primary ingredients?
The main ingredients include a medium cauliflower head, water, mayonnaise, onion powder, mustard, salt, and shredded cheddar cheese.
How long do I need to steam the cauliflower in the microwave?
The cauliflower should be microwaved on high for about 9 minutes or until it is tender.
How much water is needed for steaming?
You will need 1/4 cup of water to steam the cauliflower in a microwave-safe dish.
What is in the cheesy topping sauce?
The sauce is made by blending 1/2 cup of mayonnaise, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1 teaspoon of mustard, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
How do I prepare the cauliflower before cooking?
Thoroughly clean the cauliflower and remove any leaves while ensuring the head remains intact.
Should the dish be covered while microwaving?
Yes, the microwave-safe dish should be covered tightly during the initial 9-minute steaming process.
How do I apply the cheese mixture to the cauliflower?
Spread the mixture generously and evenly over the entire steamed head of cauliflower, much like frosting a cake.
How long is the second microwave step?
After applying the topping, microwave it for an additional 1 to 1.5 minutes until the cheese melts.
Can I serve this as a centerpiece?
Yes, its unique whole presentation makes it an ideal centerpiece for a dining table or special event.
What type of mustard is used?
The recipe calls for 1 teaspoon of standard mustard.
What type of cheese works best?
Shredded cheddar cheese is recommended for its flavor and melting properties.
Is this recipe easy to follow?
Yes, it is tagged as an easy recipe and primarily uses a microwave for preparation.
What should I do if the cauliflower isn't tender after 9 minutes?
Microwave it in small increments until it reaches your desired level of tenderness.
Can I use frozen cauliflower?
The recipe specifically calls for a medium whole cauliflower head for the best presentation.
Is onion powder necessary?
Yes, 1 teaspoon of onion powder is used to provide the savory flavor profile.
How much salt is included?
The recipe uses 1/4 teaspoon of salt.
Does this dish have a high level of difficulty?
No, it is a simple side dish that uses basic kitchen techniques like mixing and microwaving.
What is the serving size for this dish?
The serving size is not specified, but the recipe is intended to serve 6 people.
Can I make this for guests?
Absolutely, it is specifically tagged for 'entertaining' and 'company'.
Is the cauliflower chopped before cooking?
No, the cauliflower is kept whole for its stunning presentation.
What makes the sauce creamy?
The combination of mayonnaise and melted cheddar cheese creates the rich, creamy texture.
Can I use this as a comfort food?
Yes, it is tagged as a comfort food due to its cheesy and savory nature.
How should the cauliflower be served?
It should be served warm, either as a side dish or a unique centerpiece.
Does the recipe require an oven?
No, this is a microwave-based recipe.
What is the first step in the instructions?
The first step is cleaning the cauliflower and removing the leaves while keeping the head intact.
How much mayonnaise is needed?
You will need 1/2 cup of mayonnaise for the topping.
What flavor profile does this dish have?
It has a savory, cheesy, and rich flavor profile thanks to the mustard, onion powder, and cheddar.