Zesty Buffalo Cauliflower Bites with Creamy Ranch Dip
⏱️ Prep Time: 15 minutes • 🍳 Cook Time: 25 minutes
Elevate classic cauliflower with our Zesty Buffalo Cauliflower Bites, coated in a tangy buffalo sauce for a delightful kick of flavor.
These crispy bites are perfect as a savory appetizer or a crowd-pleasing side dish. Paired with a creamy and indulgent Ranch Dip, this dish is an irresistible treat for meat lovers and vegetarians alike! Enjoy the combination of spicy and crunchy cauliflower bites with the creamy and classic ranch dip, creating a winning flavor combo that will have everyone coming back for more.
Ingredients
🍽️ Servings: 4 • 🔥 Calories/Serving: —
For the Buffalo Cauliflower Bites:
1 large head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
1/2 cup all-purpose flour (or any gluten-free flour if preferred)
1/2 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to desired spiciness)
Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking spray or vegetable oil, for baking
For the Creamy Ranch Dip:
1 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a tangy twist)
1/4 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tablespoon white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon dried chives
Salt and pepper to taste
Steps
Step 1
Preheat the Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease with cooking spray or vegetable oil.
Step 2
Create the Buffalo Batter: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper to create the buffalo batter.
Step 3
Coat the Cauliflower Florets: Add the cauliflower florets to the buffalo batter and toss to coat them evenly.
Step 4
Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the coated cauliflower florets on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each piece to ensure even baking.
Step 5
Bake the Cauliflower Bites: Bake the cauliflower bites in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they become golden and crispy.
Step 6
Prepare the Creamy Ranch Dip: In a separate bowl, combine sour cream (or Greek yogurt), milk, fresh parsley, fresh dill, minced garlic, vinegar, onion powder, dried chives, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create the creamy ranch dip.
Step 7
Serve & Enjoy: Transfer the Zesty Buffalo Cauliflower Bites to a serving platter and drizzle any remaining buffalo sauce over the top for extra flavor. Pair the bites with the Creamy Ranch Dip, and indulge in the perfect balance of spicy and creamy goodness.
Make it your own!
For a little extra heat, add an additional pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the buffalo batter.
Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese or crumbled blue cheese over the cauliflower bites before baking for a rich and indulgent twist.
Toss the cauliflower bites in your favorite store-bought or homemade buffalo sauce for added convenience and a custom level of spiciness.
