If you love crispy, flavorful, and healthy alternatives to traditional nuggets, these Cauliflower Nuggets are a must-try! Baked to golden perfection, these nuggets are gluten-free, dairy-free, and paleo-friendly, making them perfect for those following a health-conscious lifestyle.
Coated in a flavorful blend of spices, almond flour, and nutritional yeast, these nuggets develop a delightful crunch without the need for deep-frying. Served with a homemade honey mustard dipping sauce, they deliver the perfect balance of savory, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors.
Ready in under 40 minutes, these wholesome bites make a fantastic snack, appetizer, or even a main course. Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or simply looking for a nutritious and tasty recipe, these Cauliflower Nuggets will satisfy all cravings!
Why You Will Love Making This Recipe
- Crispy & Flavorful: Perfectly crunchy on the outside, soft on the inside.
- Healthier Alternative: Baked, not fried, with wholesome ingredients.
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under 40 minutes with minimal effort.
- Gluten-Free & Dairy-Free: Suitable for various dietary preferences.
- Customizable: Add different seasonings or dipping sauces for variety.
- Kid-Friendly: A great way to get kids to enjoy vegetables.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make ahead and reheat for quick snacks!
Ingredients:
For the Cauliflower Nuggets:
- 1 head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
- 1/4 cup paleo or vegan mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup gluten-free flour or almond flour
- 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp turmeric
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
For the Honey Mustard Dipping Sauce:
- 1/4 cup paleo or vegan mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp whole grain mustard
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt & pepper to taste
Equipment Used:
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups & spoons
Directions & Instructions
1. Preheat & Prepare:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Wash and cut the cauliflower into bite-sized florets.
2. Coat the Cauliflower:
- In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with mayonnaise until evenly coated.
- In a separate bowl, mix flour, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, turmeric, salt, and pepper.
- Toss the coated florets in the flour mixture until fully covered.
3. Bake Until Crispy:
- Arrange the cauliflower nuggets on the lined baking sheet in a single layer.
- Bake for 30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and golden brown.
4. Make the Dipping Sauce:
- In a bowl, whisk together mayo, Dijon mustard, whole grain mustard, honey, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
5. Serve & Enjoy:
- Serve the crispy cauliflower nuggets hot with the honey mustard dipping sauce on the side.
Nutritional Information
Per serving:
- Calories: 180
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fat: 8g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 250mg
These Cauliflower Nuggets are packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals while being low in unhealthy fats. The honey mustard sauce adds a hint of sweetness and tanginess, making these a well-balanced, nutrient-dense snack!
Prep Time and Cook Time:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Variations:
- Spicy Version: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce for extra heat.
- Cheesy Flavor: Use vegan parmesan for extra umami.
- BBQ Twist: Swap the honey mustard sauce for BBQ sauce.
- Oil-Free Option: Replace mayonnaise with plant-based milk.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make these nuggets ahead of time?
Yes! Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best crispiness.
2. What dipping sauces work well with these?
Aside from honey mustard, try ranch, BBQ sauce, or tahini dressing.
3. Can I make these nuggets in an air fryer?
Absolutely! Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes, shaking halfway through.
4. Are these nuggets vegan?
Yes! Use vegan mayo and swap honey for maple syrup to keep it vegan-friendly.
Pro Tips By Lyndy
- Cut cauliflower evenly for even cooking.
- Use parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Flip nuggets halfway for even crispiness.
- Double the batch—they disappear fast!
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with fresh veggies and dipping sauce.
- Pair with quinoa or rice for a complete meal.
- Add to salads or grain bowls for extra crunch.
Crispy Cauliflower Nuggets with Honey Mustard Sauce : A Healthy Twist!
If you love crispy, flavorful, and healthy alternatives to traditional nuggets, these Cauliflower Nuggets are a must-try! Baked to golden perfection, these nuggets are gluten-free, dairy-free, and paleo-friendly, making them perfect for those following a health-conscious lifestyle.
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups & spoons
For the Cauliflower Nuggets:
- 1 head of cauliflower (cut into bite-sized florets)
- 1/4 cup paleo or vegan mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup gluten-free flour or almond flour
- 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp turmeric
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
For the Honey Mustard Dipping Sauce:
- 1/4 cup paleo or vegan mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp whole grain mustard
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Preheat & Prepare:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Wash and cut the cauliflower into bite-sized florets.
- Coat the Cauliflower:
- In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with mayonnaise until evenly coated.
- In a separate bowl, mix flour, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, turmeric, salt, and pepper.
- Toss the coated florets in the flour mixture until fully covered.
- Bake Until Crispy:
- Arrange the cauliflower nuggets on the lined baking sheet in a single layer.
- Bake for 30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and golden brown.
- Make the Dipping Sauce:
- In a bowl, whisk together mayo, Dijon mustard, whole grain mustard, honey, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Serve & Enjoy:
- Serve the crispy cauliflower nuggets hot with the honey mustard dipping sauce on the side.
Cut cauliflower evenly for even cooking.
Use parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Flip nuggets halfway for even crispiness.