If you’ve ever wondered how to take humble cauliflower and transform it into something irresistible and hearty, then Ina Garten’s Cauliflower Toast Recipe is about to become your new favorite indulgence. This dish pairs the earthy, caramelized flavor of roasted cauliflower with a luscious blend of Gruyère, Parmesan, and crème fraîche, all nestled atop perfectly toasted country-style bread. It’s comfort food elevated with a touch of elegance and a burst of savory goodness in every bite. Whether you’re serving it as a cozy lunch, a light dinner, or a show-stopping appetizer, this recipe truly showcases how simple ingredients can come together to create pure magic.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Ina Garten’s Cauliflower Toast Recipe lies in its straightforward and essential ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, from the creamy cheeses to the crisp bread and the subtly spicy touch of Dijon mustard. Here’s what you’ll gather:
- 1 small head of cauliflower (cut into florets): The star of the dish, roasting it brings out a nutty sweetness and soft texture.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps the cauliflower brown beautifully and adds richness.
- Kosher salt and black pepper (to taste): Simple seasoning that enhances every ingredient.
- 4 ounces grated Gruyère cheese: Melts beautifully with a slightly sweet, nutty flavor.
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, salty dimension to this cheesy ensemble.
- 2 tablespoons crème fraîche: Brings creaminess and a subtle tang to the mixture.
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard: Gives a gentle kick and depth of flavor, waking up the palate.
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a touch of heat if you enjoy a little spice.
- 4 slices of country-style bread (½ inch thick): The perfect sturdy base that gets deliciously crispy when toasted.
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (for toasting): Used to enhance the bread’s crunch and add a silky finish.
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives (optional): A fresh, mild onion flavor that makes a pretty garnish.
How to Make Ina Garten’s Cauliflower Toast Recipe
Step 1: Roast the Cauliflower
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the cauliflower florets on a sheet pan and drizzle them with olive oil, then season generously with kosher salt and black pepper. Roasting caramelizes the florets, enhancing their natural sweetness and softening them perfectly. Toss the cauliflower once halfway through roasting and let it bake for 20 to 25 minutes until tender and lightly browned. This step is key because the roasted flavor forms the base of your toast topping.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheesy Cauliflower Mixture
Once the cauliflower is roasted and slightly cooled, roughly chop it and transfer it to a medium bowl. Add the grated Gruyère, Parmesan, crème fraîche, Dijon mustard, and red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Mixing these ingredients together creates a wonderfully creamy, flavorful filling with a little zing and a touch of heat. This mixture is where the magic happens, blending these complementary cheese flavors with the roasted veggie to depth and richness you’ll love.
Step 3: Toast and Butter the Bread
Lightly toast your slices of country-style bread until they just start to turn golden. Then, spread a thin layer of unsalted butter on each slice. This step adds a rich, buttery foundation and helps keep the bread slightly crispy after baking, essential for that perfect toast texture balance when you add the topping.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Spoon the cauliflower cheese mixture generously over each slice of buttered toast, mounding it slightly because this toast is meant to be abundant and satisfying. Place your toasts on a parchment-lined baking sheet and slide them into the oven at 400°F. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until the cheeses melt fully and the mixture is bubbly. If you’re craving some extra golden charm, broil the toasts for 1 to 2 minutes at the end, keeping a watchful eye to prevent burning.
How to Serve Ina Garten’s Cauliflower Toast Recipe
Garnishes
For a fresh, visually appealing finish, sprinkle chopped fresh chives on top. The mild onion flavor of the chives contrasts beautifully with the rich, cheesy topping and adds a pop of green that makes your dish picture-perfect. If you like a little extra heat, a small pinch of red pepper flakes can also be added just before serving.
Side Dishes
This cauliflower toast stands well on its own but pairs wonderfully with a light, crisp salad to balance the richness. Consider arugula tossed with lemon vinaigrette or a simple mixed greens salad with a tangy dressing. For a heartier meal, roasted baby potatoes or a bowl of soup—like a delicate tomato bisque—will round out the experience.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress guests, slice the toast diagonally for a rustic, bite-friendly shape. You can also transform the topping into a dip by serving it alongside toasted baguette slices or fresh vegetable crudités. This versatility makes Ina Garten’s Cauliflower Toast Recipe perfect for casual family dinners or elegant entertaining.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store the cauliflower topping separately from the toast in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping them separate prevents the bread from getting soggy and allows you to reheat each component properly.
Freezing
The cauliflower mixture freezes well. Place it in a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to 2 months. Toast the bread fresh before using the topping to maintain wonderful texture. Thaw the mixture overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat the toast by placing it in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes until warmed through and the cheese topping bubbles again. Alternatively, use a toaster oven. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the bread chewy and the topping less appetizing.
FAQs
Can I use a different cheese instead of Gruyère?
Absolutely! Sharp white cheddar or even fontina are wonderful substitutes that melt well and bring their own unique flavor profile. The key is to choose a cheese that melts smoothly and complements the nuttiness of the roasted cauliflower.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
This recipe can easily be gluten-free by swapping out the country-style bread for your favorite gluten-free bread variety. The cauliflower and cheese topping are naturally gluten-free, so it’s a great option if you’re accommodating gluten sensitivities.
Can I make this vegan?
To make this recipe vegan, substitute the cheeses with plant-based alternatives, use vegan crème fraîche or a cashew cream, and swap butter for olive oil or a vegan spread. Keep in mind the flavor and texture will vary slightly but can still be delicious.
What can I serve with Ina Garten’s Cauliflower Toast Recipe for a full meal?
Pair the toast with a fresh green salad or a bowl of hearty soup for a balanced meal. Roasted vegetables, grain salads, or light protein such as grilled chicken or fish also work well alongside this cheesy, veggie-forward toast.
Does the red pepper flakes spice it up a lot?
Not at all! The red pepper flakes add just a gentle warmth and subtle kick. You can easily omit them if you prefer a milder flavor or adjust the quantity to suit your palate.
Final Thoughts
Ina Garten’s Cauliflower Toast Recipe is truly a culinary gem that reminds us how simple ingredients can come together to create something soulful and satisfying. Whether you’re serving it on a quiet weeknight or bringing it to a gathering, this recipe combines comfort, elegance, and bold flavor in a way that’s hard not to love. Give it a try, and you’ll find yourself reaching for it time and time again—it’s just that good!
Print
Ina Garten’s Cauliflower Toast Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course, Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Ina Garten’s Cauliflower Toast is a delicious and cheesy vegetarian recipe featuring roasted cauliflower combined with Gruyère, Parmesan, and a creamy Dijon mustard dressing, served atop lightly toasted country-style bread. This flavorful dish is perfect for a light lunch, dinner, or an elegant appetizer.
Ingredients
Roasted Cauliflower:
- 1 small head of cauliflower, cut into florets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste
Cheese Mixture:
- 4 ounces grated Gruyère cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons crème fraîche
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Toast and Garnish:
- 4 slices country-style bread, ½ inch thick
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, for toasting
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives (optional)
Instructions
- Roast the Cauliflower: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the cauliflower florets on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with kosher salt and black pepper. Roast for 20–25 minutes, tossing once halfway through, until the cauliflower is tender and lightly browned. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
- Prepare the Cheese Mixture: Transfer the roasted cauliflower onto a cutting board and roughly chop it. In a medium bowl, combine the grated Gruyère, Parmesan, crème fraîche, Dijon mustard, and red pepper flakes if using. Gently fold in the chopped cauliflower until well mixed.
- Toast the Bread: Lightly toast the slices of country-style bread. Spread each slice with a thin layer of unsalted butter while warm.
- Assemble the Cauliflower Toasts: Spoon the cauliflower and cheese mixture generously over each slice of buttered toast, mounding slightly for a hearty topping.
- Bake the Toasts: Place the prepared toasts on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes, or until the cheese mixture is melted and bubbly. For a nicely browned top, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the toasts from the oven, sprinkle with chopped fresh chives if desired, and serve warm as a delicious appetizer or light meal.
Notes
- For a gluten-free version, substitute the country-style bread with gluten-free bread slices.
- If Gruyère cheese is unavailable, sharp white cheddar can be used as an alternative.
- This recipe makes an excellent vegetarian lunch, light dinner, or party appetizer.
