Guests always flock to Cheese Dip Guy. Meanwhile, Carrot Girl (that’s me) missed the memo that she was attending a party, not a detox spa day. Fortunately, despite my irrefutable celery stick ways, my friends still talk to me at social gatherings. I credit this achievement partly to my charm, but mostly to the fact that my veggie trays are usually accompanied by another more indulgent treat to pass as well (like Chicken Satay with Peanut Dipping Sauce or Brownie Bites). I don’t intend to stop bringing vegetables to parties anytime soon—I maintain that it’s nice to have at least one healthy option to buffer the onslaught of processed cheese that will inevitably be present (although I’ve never complained about this Cheese Fondue). Thanks to roasted cauliflower bruschetta, I now have a recipe that both pleases my fellow guests and provides a lighter appetizer alternative (this Greek Layer Dip is another favorite). It’s caramelized, salty-sweet, and delivered on a crispy slice of olive oil toasted baguette. What’s not to like?! Eating vegetables at a party hasn’t been this popular since someone thought to deep fry zucchini (although these baked Zucchini Fries are still my preference).
How to Make Roasted Cauliflower Bruschetta
With its vibrant tomato base, meaty roasted cauliflower topping (see these Cauliflower Tacos), piles of fresh basil, and briny capers, roasted cauliflower bruschetta is so big on flavor, chances are nobody at your party will suspect that it’s good for them too. Cheese Dip Guy, beware—roasted cauliflower bruschetta is poised to steal your place as the party’s most popular attendee.
The Ingredients
Baguette. Sliced thinly, brushed with olive oil, and grilled to golden perfection, baguette rounds serve as the satisfying base to this modern bruschetta recipe.Cauliflower. Roasted simply with olive oil, salt, and pepper the cauliflower sweetens as it caramelizes in the oven and compliments the slightly spicy and acidic tomato sauce. (If you love cauliflower, you will also LOVE these Grilled Cauliflower Steaks).Capers. For a little saltiness to balance the sweetness of the cauliflower.Tomato Sauce. I like to use a fire-roasted tomato sauce for a little heat and smokiness, but feel free to use your favorite variety. You really can’t go wrong.Basil. Add color, freshness, and flavor.
The Directions
Storage Tips
To Store. Once assembled, it is best to eat the bruschetta within a few hours of serving. You may store leftover cauliflower in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
More Party-Ready Appetizer Recipes
Honey Roasted CashewsFeta DipLemon Pepper Wings
