Grilled BBQ Cauliflower: A Smoky Vegetarian Delight for Summer Cookouts

Sweet and Smoky BBQ Cauliflower: A Vegetarian Grilling Sensation

If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing vegetarian option for your next cookout, this bbq cauliflower recipe will become your new go-to side dish. Perfectly charred florets coated in a sweet and savory homemade BBQ glaze deliver incredible flavor in every bite. This smoky plant-based delight brings the beloved barbecue experience to your vegetable game!

Why You’ll Love This BBQ Cauliflower Recipe

There’s something magical about the way cauliflower transforms on the grill. The florets develop a beautiful caramelized exterior while maintaining a tender interior. Paired with our special BBQ seasoning blend, this dish delivers the perfect balance of smokiness, sweetness, and a subtle kick that will have everyone reaching for seconds.

This recipe is:

• Vegetarian-friendly: A perfect meatless option for summer cookouts
• Simple to prepare: Ready in just 35 minutes
• Healthier alternative: All the BBQ flavor with less calories
• Crowd-pleasing: Even cauliflower skeptics will be impressed

Ingredients for Perfect BBQ Cauliflower

• 1 large head cauliflower, cut into thick “steaks” or large florets
• 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon seasoned salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• 2 tablespoons BBQ sauce (plus extra for serving)
• Fresh chopped parsley or cilantro for garnish

How to Make Mouthwatering BBQ Cauliflower

1. Preheat your outdoor grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F). Make sure to oil the grates well to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the cauliflower by removing the outer leaves and trimming the stem. Cut the head into ½-inch thick “steaks” or large florets that won’t fall through the grill grates.
3. In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons olive oil, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, seasoned salt, black pepper, and cayenne (if using). Mix well to create your BBQ seasoning.
4. Brush the cauliflower pieces with the remaining tablespoon of olive oil, then generously coat both sides with the BBQ seasoning mixture.
5. Place the seasoned cauliflower directly on the preheated grill. Cook for 5-6 minutes on each side, or until the cauliflower develops nice grill marks and begins to soften.
6. During the last 2 minutes of cooking, brush the cauliflower with BBQ sauce to create a sticky, caramelized glaze.
7. Remove the grilled cauliflower from the heat and transfer to a serving platter. Drizzle with additional BBQ sauce if desired and garnish with fresh herbs.

Tips for Grilling Perfect BBQ Cauliflower Every Time

Keep those florets intact: Cut your cauliflower thick enough (at least ½ inch) to prevent it from falling apart on the grill.

Oil is your friend: Don’t skimp on oiling both the grill grates and the cauliflower to prevent sticking.

Watch the heat: Cauliflower can burn quickly if your grill is too hot. Medium-high heat allows for perfect caramelization without charring.

Try a grill basket: If you’re worried about smaller florets falling through, a grill basket works wonders.

Add smoke: For an extra smoky flavor, add soaked wood chips to your grill or try using a smoker instead.

Serving Suggestions for Your BBQ Cauliflower

This versatile side dish pairs beautifully with all your favorite summer foods. Serve alongside:

• Grilled veggie burgers or portobello mushrooms
• Classic potato salad or coleslaw
• Corn on the cob
• Baked beans

For a complete plant-based BBQ feast, try this cauliflower as your star protein! It’s substantial enough to be the centerpiece of a vegetarian meal.

Make-Ahead and Storage Instructions

While this bbq cauliflower is best enjoyed fresh off the grill, you can prepare it in advance:

• Make-ahead prep: Cut and season the cauliflower up to 8 hours before grilling. Store in the refrigerator until ready to cook.
• Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: For best results, reheat in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

Variations to Try

The beauty of bbq cauliflower is its versatility. Here are some delicious variations to experiment with:

• Buffalo style: Replace the BBQ sauce with buffalo sauce for a spicy kick
• Teriyaki twist: Use teriyaki sauce instead of BBQ for an Asian-inspired flavor
• Mediterranean: Season with herbs like oregano and thyme, then finish with a squeeze of lemon
• Mexican flair: Add cumin and chili powder to the seasoning mix and serve with lime wedges

Nutritional Benefits of BBQ Cauliflower

Not only is this bbq cauliflower delicious, but it’s also packed with nutrients! Cauliflower is low in calories while being high in vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants. By grilling instead of frying, you’re keeping this dish on the lighter side while maximizing flavor.

Whether you’re a dedicated vegetarian or simply looking to incorporate more plant-based options into your grilling repertoire, this bbq cauliflower recipe delivers big flavor with minimal effort. Fire up the grill and discover your new favorite way to enjoy this versatile vegetable!

Recipe adapted from: Allrecipes – Grilled Cauliflower