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 |
1028 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 57.8 g | 74% | |
| Saturated Fat | 9.5 g | 48% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 14.8 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 27 mg | 9% | |
| Sodium | 4371 mg | 190% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 108.9 g | 40% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 29.1 g | 104% | |
| Total Sugars | 29.1 g | ||
| Protein | 31.0 g | 62% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 267 mg | 21% | |
| Iron | 9.8 mg | 54% | |
| Potassium | 2565 mg | 55% | |
*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.