Cauliflower Nachos from Cauliflower's feature crispy roasted cauliflower florets topped with melted cheese, fresh jalapenos, diced tomatoes, and a drizzle of tangy sour cream, delivering a flavorful and satisfying twist on traditional nachos.
Equipments
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper (optional)
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Mixing bowl
- Cheese grater
- Oven mitts
- Spoon or spatula
- Serving platter
Ingredients
- 1 large head cauliflower
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1-2 fresh jalapenos
- 2 medium roma tomatoes
- 1/3 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Using a fresh, large head of cauliflower ensures the best texture when roasting the florets crispy for your nachos. The combination of smoked paprika, garlic powder, cumin, and chili powder imparts a smoky and slightly spicy flavor that enhances the dish without overwhelming it. Shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses melt well, creating the perfect cheesy layer atop your cauliflower base. Fresh jalapenos and diced roma tomatoes add a burst of color and heat, so adjust the quantity based on your preferred spice level. Your Cauliflower Nachos from Cauliflower's copycat menu deliver a creative, flavorful alternative to traditional nachos, balancing crispiness, spice, and creaminess in every bite.
Instructions
- Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Line baking sheet with parchment paper (optional).
- Wash and dry cauliflower.
- Cut cauliflower into bite-sized florets.
- Place florets in mixing bowl.
- Add olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper to bowl.
- Toss cauliflower until evenly coated.
- Spread cauliflower in single layer on prepared baking sheet.
- Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until golden and crispy, flipping halfway.
- Meanwhile, shred cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese.
- Slice jalapenos and dice roma tomatoes.
- Remove roasted cauliflower from oven.
- Sprinkle shredded cheeses evenly over roasted cauliflower.
- Return to oven and bake 3-5 minutes, until cheese is melted.
- Transfer cheesy cauliflower to serving platter.
- Top with sliced jalapenos and diced tomatoes.
- Drizzle with sour cream.
- Sprinkle with chopped cilantro (optional).
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
Cauliflower Nachos from Cauliflower's copycat menu feature crispy roasted cauliflower florets topped with melted cheese and fresh toppings for a satisfying snack. If you can't find fresh jalapenos, pickled jalapenos or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add a similar spicy kick. Sour cream can be substituted with Greek yogurt for a healthier alternative that maintains creaminess and tang. Use any shredded cheese blend you prefer if cheddar or Monterey Jack aren't available, keeping the meltability in mind. Your oven temperature and baking time might need slight adjustments depending on the size of cauliflower florets to achieve perfect crispiness.
Tips
Ensure the cauliflower florets are cut evenly to promote uniform roasting and achieve a crispy texture. Tossing the florets thoroughly with olive oil and spices helps the flavors adhere and infuse during roasting. You should watch carefully during the final cheese-melting step to avoid overbaking, which can dry out the cheese. Serve your Cauliflower Nachos immediately after adding fresh toppings and sour cream to preserve texture and flavor balance.
Nutritions
Cauliflower nachos offer a nutritious alternative to traditional tortilla chips, boasting a low-calorie and fiber-rich base from roasted cauliflower florets. The combination of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses adds a good source of protein and calcium, essential for muscle and bone health. Fresh jalapenos contribute capsaicin, which may boost metabolism, while diced tomatoes provide antioxidants like lycopene for heart health. You can enjoy this dish knowing it balances flavorful indulgence with nutrient-packed ingredients.
Storage
Store leftover Cauliflower Nachos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess. Reheat your nachos in a preheated oven at 375degF (190degC) for 5-7 minutes to keep the cauliflower crispy and cheese melted. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the florets soggy and alter the texture of your dish.
Variation or Alternatives
You can swap out cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses for a blend of pepper jack and mozzarella to add a creamier texture and a hint of spice. For a dairy-free variation, try using vegan cheese and coconut-based sour cream to maintain the creamy topping without animal products. Instead of roasting, try air-frying the cauliflower florets for an even crispier texture with less oil. Consider adding a squeeze of fresh lime juice or a sprinkle of smoked sea salt before serving to enhance the tang and depth of flavor.
Allergies
Cauliflower Nachos contain dairy products including shredded cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, and sour cream, which may trigger allergic reactions in individuals sensitive to milk or lactose intolerant. Fresh jalapenos and tomatoes might cause mild irritation or allergic responses in some people with sensitivities to nightshade vegetables. If you have known food allergies, carefully check all ingredients to avoid potential allergen exposure.
Why this recipe?
The Cauliflower Nachos from Cauliflower's restaurant are adored for their crispy roasted cauliflower base, topped with a blend of melted cheeses, fresh salsa, and tangy guacamole, creating a healthy yet indulgent twist on traditional nachos. The dish offers a perfect balance of textures and flavors while delivering a nutritious alternative to typical corn-chip nachos, making it a hit for health-conscious food lovers. Your attempt to recreate the Cauliflower Nachos at home allows you to customize spice levels, fresh ingredients, and toppings, ensuring a personalized and flavorful experience. This recipe satisfies cravings without compromising on nutrition, making it a worthwhile venture for anyone seeking a guilt-free snack.