Cauliflower With Lemon-Tarragon Mayonnaise And Cheese Crust
A flavorful cauliflower dish topped with lemon-tarragon mayonnaise and cheese crust, perfect for those seeking a tangy, herbaceous vegetarian centerpiece or side.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Steam the whole head of cauliflower for about 15 minutes, until barely done.
- Cool slightly.
- Prepare the lemon-tarragon mayonnaise by mixing mayonnaise, lemon juice, lemon peel, Dijon mustard, white pepper, and minced tarragon.
- Apply the mayonnaise mixture over the cooled cauliflower and add a cheese crust on top if desired.
- Bake or broil until the cheese is melted and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of sour cream to the mayonnaise mixture. If fresh tarragon is unavailable, dried tarragon can be used, but reduce the amount to 1 teaspoon. When steaming the cauliflower, ensure it remains slightly firm to prevent overcooking. This recipe pairs beautifully with American recipes like grilled chicken or fish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cauliflower as a main dish or a side alongside roasted meats or a fresh green salad. It pairs well with crusty bread and a glass of white wine. For a complete meal, consider adding a side of Ruth Lyons' Coffee Cake(In Honor Of Hector D. Kirk) for a sweet finish.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover cauliflower can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals, checking frequently to avoid drying it out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cauliflower With Lemon-Tarragon Mayonnaise And Cheese Crust contains roughly 90 calories, with 3g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (19% of the Daily Value) and iron (17% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 5g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen cauliflower for this recipe?
Yes, frozen cauliflower can be used, but be sure to thaw and drain it well before steaming. Frozen cauliflower may require slightly less steaming time, so keep an eye on it to avoid mushiness.
What type of cheese works best for the crust?
A sharp cheddar or a blend of Parmesan and mozzarella works wonderfully for the cheese crust, adding both flavor and a nice golden color. You can also experiment with other cheeses based on your preference.
Can I make the mayonnaise mixture ahead of time?
Absolutely! The lemon-tarragon mayonnaise can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before using it to coat the cauliflower.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).