Elevate your vegetable game with this vibrant and healthy Zesty Steamed Cauliflower! Perfectly steamed cauliflower florets are tossed in a citrusy blend of fresh lemon zest and juice, aromatic garlic-infused olive oil, and a hint of heat from crushed red pepper flakes. This light yet flavorful dish is finished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and herbaceous flair. Ready in just 25 minutes, this gluten-free and vegan recipe makes an ideal side dish for weeknight dinners or a lively addition to your holiday table. Bursting with fresh, zesty flavors, this easy-to-make steamed cauliflower is proof that simple ingredients can create extraordinary results!
Wash the cauliflower under cold running water and remove the outer leaves. Cut the cauliflower into florets of roughly equal size.
Peel and finely mince the garlic cloves. Chop the parsley finely. Zest and juice the lemon, keeping them separate.
In a large pot, add 1 cup of water and place a steamer basket or steaming rack inside. Bring the water to a boil over medium heat.
Add the cauliflower florets to the steamer basket, cover the pot with a lid, and lower the heat to medium. Steam the cauliflower for 8-10 minutes or until fork-tender but not mushy.
While the cauliflower is steaming, heat olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
Remove the steamed cauliflower from the pot and transfer it to a large mixing bowl. Drizzle the garlic-infused olive oil over the cauliflower.
Add the lemon zest, lemon juice, chopped parsley, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes to the cauliflower. Toss gently to coat the florets evenly.
Adjust seasoning to taste if necessary and sprinkle with additional parsley or lemon zest for garnish.
Serve immediately as a side dish or enjoy as a light, flavorful main course.
Calories |
438 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 30.0 g | 38% | |
| Saturated Fat | 5.2 g | 26% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.9 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 2106 mg | 92% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 39.0 g | 14% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 14.8 g | 53% | |
| Total Sugars | 13.5 g | ||
| Protein | 13.3 g | 27% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 192 mg | 15% | |
| Iron | 3.9 mg | 22% | |
| Potassium | 2022 mg | 43% | |
*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.