Experience the classic flavors of Italian cuisine with a modern twist in this Vegetarian Vitello Tonnato. A creative, plant-based take on the traditional dish, this recipe swaps veal for perfectly roasted cauliflower steaks, showcasing their tender texture and caramelized edges. The creamy tonnato-inspired sauce features a blend of protein-packed chickpeas, zesty capers, vegan mayonnaise, and bright lemon juice, delivering bold, savory flavors without the use of animal products. Ready in under an hour, this dish is ideal as a vibrant appetizer or light main course, and its beautiful presentation makes it perfect for entertaining. Garnished with fresh parsley and extra capers, itβs a delightful fusion of wholesome ingredients and gourmet flair that will charm both vegetarians and omnivores alike.
Preheat your oven to 400Β°F (200Β°C).
Cut the cauliflower into thick steaks or large florets, depending on your preference.
Place the cauliflower pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Brush both sides of the cauliflower with olive oil, then season with salt and black pepper.
Roast the cauliflower in the oven for 30-35 minutes, flipping once midway through, until golden brown and tender.
While the cauliflower is roasting, prepare the tonnato sauce. In a food processor or blender, combine the cooked chickpeas, vegan mayonnaise, lemon juice, capers, Dijon mustard, garlic clove, and water. Blend until smooth and creamy. Add additional water, 1 teaspoon at a time, if needed, to achieve a pourable consistency.
Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper, as needed.
Once the cauliflower is done roasting, let it cool slightly.
Arrange the cauliflower on a serving platter, then generously drizzle the tonnato sauce over the top.
Garnish with chopped parsley and extra capers, if desired.
Serve warm or at room temperature as an appetizer or a light main course.
Calories |
279 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 14.6 g | 19% | |
| Saturated Fat | 2.3 g | 11% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.9 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 7 mg | 2% | |
| Sodium | 1090 mg | 47% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 31.8 g | 12% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 8.8 g | 31% | |
| Total Sugars | 8.8 g | ||
| Protein | 9.4 g | 19% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 84 mg | 6% | |
| Iron | 2.6 mg | 14% | |
| Potassium | 841 mg | 18% | |
*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.