Herb-crusted cauliflower and leek ‚Äòcheese‚Äô

Table of contents

Herb-Crusted Cauliflower and Leek ‘Cheese’

This Herb-Crusted Cauliflower and Leek ‘Cheese’ is a delightful twist on a classic comfort dish. The creamy, cheesy sauce pairs perfectly with the tender cauliflower and leeks, while the herb crust adds a satisfying crunch. It’s a perfect dish for those looking to enjoy a comforting meal with a gourmet touch.

Serving Size and Yield

Serves 4-6 people

Preparation and Cooking Time

Preparation Time: 20 minutes

Cooking Time: 40 minutes

Total Time: 60 minutes

Ingredients

1 medium cauliflower, cut into florets
2 leeks, sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 tablespoons butter
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
1 cup grated cheddar cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare a large pot of boiling salted water. Add the cauliflower florets and cook for 5 minutes until just tender. Drain and set aside.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced leeks and sauté for 5 minutes until soft. Remove from heat and set aside.
Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute.
Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens.
Add the cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to the sauce. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
Combine the cauliflower and leeks in a baking dish. Pour the cheese sauce over the vegetables and mix gently to coat.
Mix the breadcrumbs, parsley, and thyme in a small bowl. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the top of the cauliflower and leek mixture.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Additional Notes

For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free breadcrumbs. You can also add a pinch of nutmeg to the cheese sauce for an extra layer of flavor.