Baked Cauliflower Fritters

Baked cauliflower fritters are a great alternative that are lighter and less caloric compared to the fried version. Here is the recipe to prepare them with an Italian touch that never hurts.

Ingredients

• 1 medium cauliflower
• 2 eggs
• 80 g of grated Parmesan cheese
• 100 g of breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons of wheat flour
• 1 clove of minced garlic (optional)
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste
• Nutmeg (optional)
• Extra virgin olive oil

Preparation

1. Preheat the oven to 200°C.
2. Clean the cauliflower by removing the leaves and cutting it into florets. Wash the florets under running water.
3. Steam the cauliflower until it is tender but not mushy, about 15 minutes.
4. Once cooked, transfer the cauliflower to a bowl and mash it with a fork or potato masher until a coarse texture is obtained.
5. Add the beaten eggs, Parmesan, minced garlic (if using), flour, and half of the breadcrumbs. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg if desired. Mix well until the mixture is homogeneous.
6. Form balls with the mixture and roll them in the remaining breadcrumbs to coat completely.
7. Arrange the fritters on a baking tray lined with parchment paper and drizzle with a stream of extra virgin olive oil.
8. Bake in the oven for about 20-25 minutes or until they are golden and crispy, turning them halfway through cooking.

You can serve the baked cauliflower fritters with a Greek yogurt sauce or tzatziki to add a fresh and slightly sour note that goes well with the sweetness of the cauliflower.

Fun Fact

Cauliflower is a very versatile vegetable rich in nutrients; in the Mediterranean, it has been consumed since ancient times, and today it is highly appreciated in Italian cuisine for its ability to adapt to different dishes, from side dishes to savory pies.