Lunch

Cauliflower Steak with Chimichurri

Name: Cauliflower Steak with Chimichurri
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Argentinian
Ingredients: 1 large head cauliflower; 3 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp fresh oregano, chopped (or 2 tsp dried oregano); 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil; 2 tbsp red wine vinegar; 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes; Salt and pepper to taste

Bysarra August 10, 2025

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vibrant and satisfying plant-based dish, cauliflower steak with chimichurri offers a perfect balance of hearty texture and zesty freshness. Thick slices of roasted cauliflower are paired with a bright, herb-forward chimichurri sauce for a flavorful main course that is both wholesome and elegant.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is an excellent choice for both vegetarians and meat-eaters seeking a lighter, yet satisfying alternative. The cauliflower develops a rich, roasted flavor with a tender interior and crisp edges, while the chimichurri provides a burst of fresh herbs, garlic, and tangy vinegar. It is simple enough for a weeknight dinner but sophisticated enough to serve at a dinner party.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 large head of cauliflower
Olive oil
Salt
Black pepper
Fresh parsley
Fresh cilantro
Fresh oregano (or dried oregano)
Garlic cloves
Red wine vinegar
Red pepper flakes (optional for heat)

directions

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
Remove the outer leaves of the cauliflower and trim the stem, keeping the head intact.
Slice the cauliflower into thick steaks, about 1 to 1.5 inches wide.
Place the steaks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
Roast in the oven for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and tender.
Meanwhile, prepare the chimichurri by finely chopping parsley, cilantro, oregano, and garlic.
Place the herbs and garlic in a bowl, add red wine vinegar, olive oil, salt, and optional red pepper flakes. Stir well to combine.
Once the cauliflower steaks are cooked, spoon chimichurri generously over the top before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 2–4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

Add lemon zest to the chimichurri for extra brightness.
Substitute cilantro with basil for a different herbal profile.
Add roasted red peppers to the sauce for a smoky-sweet twist.
Grill the cauliflower steaks instead of roasting for a charred flavor.

storage/reheating

Store leftover cauliflower steaks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep chimichurri in a separate container for freshness. Reheat cauliflower in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 8–10 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving as it may soften the texture too much. Chimichurri is best served at room temperature and should not be heated.

FAQs

How thick should I cut the cauliflower steaks?

Aim for slices about 1 to 1.5 inches thick to ensure they hold together during cooking and roast evenly.

Can I make the chimichurri in advance?

Yes, chimichurri can be prepared up to 2 days ahead and stored in the refrigerator.

What can I serve with cauliflower steak?

It pairs well with roasted potatoes, quinoa, or a fresh green salad.

Can I grill cauliflower steaks instead of roasting?

Yes, grilling gives a smoky flavor and beautiful char marks. Brush with oil before placing on the grill.

Is chimichurri always made with cilantro?

No, traditional recipes often use parsley only. Cilantro is an optional addition for extra freshness.

Can I freeze cauliflower steaks?

Cooked cauliflower steaks can be frozen, but their texture may become softer upon reheating.

How do I prevent the steaks from falling apart?

Cut from the center of the cauliflower head and handle gently when flipping.

Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, it is naturally vegan and dairy-free.

Can I use frozen cauliflower?

No, frozen cauliflower is not ideal for this recipe as it tends to become too soft.

How spicy is chimichurri?

It is typically mild, but you can increase spiciness by adding more red pepper flakes or fresh chili.

Conclusion

Cauliflower steak with chimichurri is a flavorful, healthy, and versatile dish that works for any occasion. With its crisp-tender texture and fresh, tangy sauce, it is a plant-based recipe that even meat lovers will enjoy. Whether roasted or grilled, this dish proves that cauliflower can be a satisfying main course full of vibrant flavor

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