Football season has kicked off which means it’s tailgating time! When we think of tailgating food, the usual fare often comes to mind in the form of burgers, hot dogs and wings. While they’ll always have a special place in our hearts, we all know they’re not exactly the healthiest options. With so many football parties to look forward to, friends and family can definitely appreciate more diet-friendly yet delicious alternatives. Say hello to the buffalo chicken wing’s cooler, slimmed down cousin: Buffalo Cauliflower Bites! Bite-sized, spicy morsels that are packed with tons of flavor, these are closest thing anyone will get to this tailgating classic. And it’s vegetarian too! Serve them with your favorite ranch or blue cheese dip and we’ll promise you that you’ll be munching on these all football season long!
Cauliflower is truly a magical vegetable that tends to be overlooked in the produce department. While its plain and white blob-like shape and raw sulfurous, bitter flavor may not be the most appealing, once cooked, cauliflower transforms into something sweeter, nuttier and worth a second glance. Its unique texture and ability to absorb flavors make them as a wonderful alternative to carbs such as with cauliflower rice and cauliflower pizza crust. You can also roast them in the oven to help bring out a deeper, caramelized flavor or simply steam them for a healthy side dish.
Buffalo Cauliflower Bites
Yields: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 head of organic cauliflower, chopped into florets
- 1/2 cup of water
- 1/2 cup of flour
- 1/2 cup of buffalo hot sauce
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
- 2 tablespoons of butter, melted
1. Preheat the oven to 450 degrees. Lightly grease a large baking sheet with cooking spray.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the water, flour, garlic powder, salt and black pepper. Add the cauliflower and coat the florets with the batter.
3. Place the cauliflower florets evenly onto the baking sheet and bake for about 15 to 20 minutes until lightly browned.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together the buffalo hot sauce and butter. Then, add the cauliflower florets to the bowl and coat evenly.
5. Once again, place the cauliflower florets to a greased baking sheet and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
6. Remove from the oven and allow to cool for at least 15 minutes before serving. Serve with a side of ranch or blue cheese dip.