Hot Honey Roasted Cauliflower Steaks with Herb Yogurt
Hot Honey Roasted Cauliflower Steaks are a bold, modern vegetarian dish that proves vegetables can be the star of the plate. Thick slices of cauliflower are roasted until golden and caramelized, then brushed with spicy-sweet hot honey that seeps into every crispy edge. Paired with a cool, creamy herb yogurt sauce, this dish hits all the flavor notes — spicy, sweet, savory, tangy, and fresh.
This recipe is inspired by Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavors, where yogurt sauces, herbs, and roasted vegetables shine. It works beautifully as a main for a plant-based meal or as a standout side dish alongside grilled meats, fish, or grain bowls. It’s hearty, visually impressive, and packed with nutrients, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
Total Time: 45–50 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
For the Cauliflower Steaks
1 large head cauliflower
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste)
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
For the Hot Honey
3 tablespoons honey
½–1 teaspoon hot sauce or chili paste
½ teaspoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
For the Herb Yogurt Sauce
1 cup plain Greek yogurt
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 small garlic clove, minced
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh dill or mint, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cauliflower
Remove outer leaves but keep the core intact. Slice the cauliflower vertically into ¾–1 inch thick “steaks.” You should get 2–3 full steaks plus florets (roast those too!).
Step 2: Season
Place steaks on a lined baking tray. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Brush generously over both sides of the cauliflower.
Step 3: Roast
Roast at 425°F (220°C) for 20 minutes. Flip carefully and roast another 10–15 minutes until edges are browned and centers tender.
Step 4: Make Hot Honey
Warm honey slightly (microwave 10 seconds). Stir in hot sauce and vinegar/lemon juice. Taste and adjust heat level.
Step 5: Prepare Herb Yogurt
In a bowl, mix yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, herbs, salt, and pepper. Chill until serving.
Step 6: Finish the Dish
Brush or drizzle hot honey over hot cauliflower right out of the oven. Serve over a spread of herb yogurt or with yogurt on the side.
Tips
Keep the core intact so steaks hold together.
Don’t overcrowd the tray — spacing = crispiness.
High heat is key for caramelization.
Flip gently using a wide spatula.
Roast extra florets — they get extra crispy.
Use full-fat yogurt for best flavor and texture.
Let cauliflower brown deeply — color = flavor.
Add honey after roasting so it doesn’t burn.
Fresh herbs matter — dried won’t give the same brightness.
Serve immediately for best texture.
Variations
Add tahini to yogurt for nuttiness.
Top with pomegranate seeds for sweetness and color.
Add toasted almonds or pine nuts for crunch.
Use maple syrup instead of honey for vegan version.
Sprinkle feta for a Mediterranean touch.
Add cumin and coriander to spice mix.
Drizzle balsamic glaze with the honey.
Serve over quinoa or couscous for a full meal.
Add harissa for smoky heat.
Make wraps with flatbread and veggies.
Q&A
Can I make this vegan?
Yes! Use plant yogurt and maple syrup.
How thick should steaks be?
¾–1 inch so they don’t fall apart.
Can I air fry them?
Yes, at 375°F for about 15–18 minutes.
Why is mine soggy?
Too much crowding or low oven heat.
Can I prep ahead?
Sauce can be made 2 days ahead.
What yogurt works best?
Greek yogurt for thickness.
Can I use frozen cauliflower?
Fresh works best for steak slices.
How spicy is it?
Adjust hot sauce to your taste.
What protein pairs well?
Grilled chicken, lamb, or chickpeas.
How long does it keep?
Up to 3 days refrigerated.
Nutrition (Approx. per serving)
Calories: 220
Protein: 8g
Carbohydrates: 22g
Fat: 12g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 14g
Rich in fiber, antioxidants, probiotics (yogurt), and anti-inflammatory compounds.
Conclusion
Hot Honey Roasted Cauliflower Steaks with Herb Yogurt transform humble cauliflower into a show-stopping dish. The crispy roasted edges, spicy-sweet glaze, and cool herby sauce create a perfect flavor balance that keeps every bite interesting. It’s nourishing, versatile, and impressive enough for guests yet simple enough for weeknights. This is one of those recipes that makes people say, “I didn’t know cauliflower could taste like this!”