Dairy-Free Spicy Garlic Cauliflower Bites
Get ready to savor the irresistible flavors of Dairy-Free Spicy Garlic Cauliflower Bites, a plant-based twist on a classic appetizer that's perfect for vegans, vegetarians, or anyone seeking a lighter snacking option. Tender cauliflower florets are dipped in a seasoned batter of flour, almond milk, and bold spices like smoked paprika and cayenne pepper before being coated in crisp panko breadcrumbs and oven-baked to golden perfection—no frying necessary! The bites are then tossed in a delectable spicy garlic sauce made with hot sauce, maple syrup, and minced garlic, creating a perfect balance of heat and sweetness. Ready in just 45 minutes and completely dairy-free, these cauliflower bites are ideal for serving as an appetizer, party snack, or game-day treat. Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions for a vibrant presentation and enjoy every crispy, saucy bite!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 head cauliflower
- 0.5 cup all-purpose flour
- 0.25 cup cornstarch
- 0.5 cup unsweetened almond milk
- 0.5 cup water
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 0.5 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 1.5 cups panko breadcrumbs
- olive oil spray
- 0.25 cup hot sauce
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 2 cloves minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Cut the cauliflower head into bite-sized florets and set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Slowly whisk in the almond milk and water until a smooth batter forms.
Place the panko breadcrumbs in a separate shallow bowl or plate.
Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, allowing any excess to drip off, then roll it in the panko breadcrumbs to coat completely. Place the coated florets on the prepared baking sheet.
Lightly spray the cauliflower florets with olive oil spray to enhance crispness.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping the florets halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
While the cauliflower is baking, prepare the spicy garlic sauce. In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the hot sauce, maple syrup, minced garlic, and apple cider vinegar. Stir occasionally and heat until warmed through, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat.
Once the cauliflower is finished baking, transfer it to a large bowl. Pour the spicy garlic sauce over the cauliflower bites and toss to coat evenly.
Serve immediately as a snack or appetizer. Optionally, garnish with chopped parsley or green onions for extra flavor and color.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
885 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 7.4 g | 9% | |
| Saturated Fat | 1.2 g | 6% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.5 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 5427 mg | 236% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 184.0 g | 67% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 18.8 g | 67% | |
| Total Sugars | 44.3 g | ||
| Protein | 30.7 g | 61% | |
| Vitamin D | 1.1 mcg | 5% | |
| Calcium | 409 mg | 31% | |
| Iron | 10.2 mg | 57% | |
| Potassium | 2107 mg | 45% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
