Grilled cauliflower

Grilled cauliflower, brushed with melted butter and topped with parmesan cheese, offers a nutty flavor and crispy texture. This simple method delivers a healthy and delicious side dish perfect for barbecues or light mains.

21 Feb 2026
Cook time 40 min
Prep time 5 min

Ingredients:

1 head cauliflower
1/2 cup salted butter
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese

Grilled cauliflower is a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional grilled vegetables or meat. Its slightly nutty flavor, combined with the richness of butter and the savory notes of parmesan cheese, makes it a crowd-pleaser for any meal. Whether you're looking to impress your guests at a barbecue or simply want a nutritious side dish, this recipe is both simple and flavorful.

Instructions:

1. Preparation:
- Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat.
- While the grill is heating, wash the cauliflower thoroughly and remove any green leaves. Cut the cauliflower into thick slices or "steaks," about 1/2 to 1 inch thick, to ensure they hold together during grilling.

2. Melt the Butter:
- In a small saucepan over low heat or in a microwave-safe dish, melt the salted butter until it is fully liquid. Be careful not to burn the butter, especially if you are using a microwave.

3. Season the Cauliflower:
- Brush each cauliflower steak generously with the melted butter, making sure to coat all sides.
- Sprinkle the grated parmesan cheese evenly over the buttered cauliflower steaks. The cheese will add a delicious, crispy texture once grilled.

4. Grilling the Cauliflower:
- Place the cauliflower steaks directly on the preheated grill.
- Grill the cauliflower for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are tender and have a nice charred appearance. Adjust the time as needed depending on the thickness of your slices and the heat of your grill.
- Use a spatula to carefully turn the cauliflower steaks over halfway through grilling.

5. Serving:
- Once the cauliflower is nicely grilled and tender, remove it from the grill and place it on a serving plate.
- Optionally, you can garnish with a sprinkle of extra parmesan cheese or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for added flavor.

6. Enjoy:
- Serve the grilled cauliflower steaks immediately while they are hot. They make a great side dish or can be enjoyed as a light vegetarian main course.

With just a few simple ingredients and some easy-to-follow steps, grilled cauliflower can become one of your go-to dishes. Its unique flavor and the savory blend of butter and parmesan provide a delightful experience for your taste buds. Perfect as a side dish or a main course for vegetarian meals, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy your perfectly grilled cauliflower!

Grilled cauliflower FAQ:

What is the best grilling time for cauliflower steaks?

Grill the cauliflower steaks for about 5-7 minutes on each side. This should achieve a tender texture with a nice char. Adjust the time based on the thickness of your slices and the heat of your grill.

How do I know when the grilled cauliflower is done?

The grilled cauliflower is done when it's tender and has a charred appearance. You can test it with a fork; it should pierce the cauliflower easily without being mushy.

Can I store leftover grilled cauliflower?

Yes, store any leftover grilled cauliflower in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a microwave or on the grill to regain some of its original texture.

What can I substitute for salted butter in this recipe?

You can substitute salted butter with unsalted butter, but you may want to add a bit of salt to taste. Olive oil can also be used as a dairy-free alternative.

What type of grill works best for this recipe?

A gas or charcoal grill works well for grilling cauliflower. Ensure the grill is preheated to medium-high heat for best results.

Tips:

- Ensure that your grill is preheated to medium-high heat before adding the cauliflower. This will help to achieve the perfect char and prevent sticking.

- Cut the cauliflower into even-sized florets to ensure they cook uniformly. This helps avoid some florets being undercooked while others are overcooked.

- Melt the salted butter in a saucepan over low heat. Use a brush to coat the cauliflower evenly, which helps in achieving a golden-brown crust.

- Place the cauliflower on the grill and cook for about 8-10 minutes on each side or until tender and charred. Rotate and flip the florets frequently to avoid burning.

- Sprinkle the grated parmesan cheese over the cauliflower during the last few minutes of grilling to allow it to melt and adhere to the florets. This step ensures maximum flavor.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 270kcal
Protein 4.54g
Carbohydrates 7g
Fiber 2.56g
Sugar 2.61g
Fat 24g

Grilled cauliflower