Baked Cauliflower with Cheese and Herb Sauce

Baked Cauliflower with Cheese and Herb Sauce

Table of Contents

Ingredients

For the Cauliflower:

  • Cauliflower: 1, divided into florets
  • Lemon: 3 slices
  • Fresh Dill: 2 sprigs
  • Hard Cheese: Amount to taste, grated (e.g., Parmesan)
  • Semi-Hard Cheese: Amount to taste, grated (e.g., Cheddar or Gruyère)
  • Rosemary: To taste
  • Salt: To taste

For the Sauce:

  • Butter: 150 g (5.3 oz)
  • Milk: 250 ml (8.5 fl oz)
  • Flour: Around 2 tablespoons, to thicken the sauce
  • Salt: To taste
  • Black Pepper: To taste
  • Nutmeg: To taste
  • Garlic: 4 cloves, minced

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cauliflower

  • Divide the Cauliflower: Start by dividing the cauliflower into florets. Cut the florets into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
  • Cook the Cauliflower: Place the sliced cauliflower in a tall pot with plenty of water. Add 3 slices of lemon and 2 sprigs of fresh dill. These additions will infuse the cauliflower with a fresh, zesty flavor. Cover the pot with a lid and cook for 5 minutes until the cauliflower is slightly tender but still firm.

2. Prepare the Sauce

  • Melt the Butter: In a saucepan, melt 150 g of butter over low heat. Once melted, add 2 tablespoons of flour and stir continuously to create a smooth roux. This will thicken the sauce.
  • Add Milk and Seasonings: Gradually pour in 250 ml of milk while whisking to avoid lumps. Continue to cook on low heat, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens.
  • Season the Sauce: Season the sauce with a pinch of saltblack pepper, and a dash of nutmeg for warmth. Add the minced garlic and continue to cook for another 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

    3. Assemble the Dish

    • Drain the Cauliflower: Once the cauliflower is cooked, drain it thoroughly and place it in a baking dish.
    • Add the Cheese and Sauce: Sprinkle a generous handful of grated hard cheese (like Parmesan) over the cauliflower. Add a pinch of rosemary for an aromatic touch. Pour the prepared sauce evenly over the cauliflower.
    • Top with More Cheese: Sprinkle a handful of grated semi-hard cheese (like Cheddar or Gruyère) over the top. This will melt beautifully and form a golden crust.

    4. Bake the Cauliflower

    • Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F).
    • Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.

    5. Serve

    • Serve Hot: Remove the baked cauliflower from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. This dish is best enjoyed hot, with the cheese bubbly and the cauliflower tender.

    Nutrition Information

    • Servings: 4
    • Calories: Approximately 350 kcal per serving
    • Protein: 12g
    • Fat: 28g
    • Carbohydrates: 14g
    • Fiber: 4g
    • Sugar: 5g
    • Sodium: 600mg

    This Baked Cauliflower with Cheese and Herb Sauce is a delicious and satisfying dish that brings out the best in simple ingredients. The combination of creamy sauce, melted cheese, and tender cauliflower makes it a perfect choice for a cozy dinner. Enjoy this dish with your loved ones, and watch it quickly become a new favorite in your household!

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