Golden Cauliflower(Microwave)
Golden Cauliflower is a cheesy, flavorful microwave dish with a hint of mustard and hot sauce, perfect for quick, satisfying vegetarian meals or side dishes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place the whole washed cauliflower head in a 1 1/2-quart casserole.
- Add water to the casserole.
- Cover and microwave on High for 8 to 9 minutes.
- Melt butter in a 2-cup glass measure.
- Stir in flour, dry mustard, and pepper.
- Gradually add chicken broth while stirring.
- Microwave on High for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring every minute or so.
- Add shredded Cheddar cheese and hot sauce; stir until cheese is melted.
- Pour the cheese sauce over the cooked cauliflower before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier cheese sauce, consider adding a splash of milk or cream while melting the cheese. If you're out of dry mustard, a teaspoon of Dijon mustard can serve as a substitute. You can also experiment with different cheeses, such as Gruyère or Monterey Jack, for varied flavor. This dish can easily be adapted to include cooked bacon or ham for added protein.
Serving Suggestions
This Golden Cauliflower pairs beautifully with Quick Chicken Supper or can be served alongside roasted meats for a hearty meal. For a complete dinner, consider adding a simple green salad or some steamed vegetables. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives can brighten up the presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. You can also place it in the oven at 350°F until heated, which helps maintain the texture of the cheese sauce.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Golden Cauliflower(Microwave) contains roughly 177 calories, with 8g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (88% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (41% of the Daily Value), and iron (37% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. It also contributes 11g 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 instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen cauliflower. Just adjust the cooking time as frozen vegetables may require slightly longer to cook through. Ensure to let it thaw slightly before microwaving to ensure even cooking.
What can I substitute for Cheddar cheese?
If you prefer a different flavor, you can substitute Cheddar with any melting cheese such as Monterey Jack or Gruyère. For a sharper taste, consider using aged Cheddar or a combination of cheeses to enhance the flavor profile.
Is there a vegan alternative for this recipe?
To make this dish vegan, use a cauliflower head and replace the butter with vegan butter or olive oil. For the cheese sauce, consider using a plant-based cheese or nutritional yeast mixed with almond milk to create a creamy texture.
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).