Crispy Cauliflower Herb Nuggets

Name: Crispy Cauliflower Herb Nuggets
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 medium cauliflower, cut into florets; 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably whole wheat); 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 egg, beaten; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil spray; 1/2 cup Greek yogurt; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 teaspoon honey; Salt to taste; 1 teaspoon minced garlic (optional)

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love creating healthy snacks that don’t skimp on flavor, and these Crispy Cauliflower Herb Nuggets are a delightful result. Not only are they packed with nutritious cauliflower, but they also offer a burst of fresh herbs that take them to the next level. I enjoy serving these with a tangy dipping sauce, making them perfect for gatherings or a quick weeknight treat. Plus, they're simple to make, thanks to a quick bake in the oven that leaves them crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.

Created by

Aubrey Collins

Last updated on 2026-01-18T02:34:13.780Z

When I first experimented with cauliflower as a base for snacks, I was pleasantly surprised by how versatile it is. These Crispy Cauliflower Herb Nuggets quickly became a family favorite, and I often revisit the recipe whenever I'm looking for a guilt-free snack. The secret to their crispy texture lies in the light coating of breadcrumbs and a sprinkle of herbs before baking.

While developing this recipe, I tried various herb combinations and found that parsley and dill work wonderfully together, adding a fresh taste. A tip: allow the cauliflower to steam briefly before mixing to retain moisture while still aiming for that crunch. Trust me, these nuggets will have everyone coming back for more!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        A perfect balance of crispy outside and tender inside
Bursting with fresh herb flavors that elevate the dish
Ideal as a healthy snack or appetizer

      

Perfecting the Nugget Shape

When forming the nuggets, make sure they are uniform in size. This ensures even cooking throughout. I recommend using a cookie scoop or your hands to measure about a tablespoon of the mixture for each nugget. Too large of a nugget can result in a crunchy exterior with an undercooked interior. Aim for about 1-inch thick pieces so they cook evenly and achieve that perfect crispy texture.

Another tip for shaping is to compress the mixture firmly as you form the nuggets. This helps them hold their shape during baking. If the mixture feels too loose or crumbly, consider adding a bit more breadcrumbs or a touch of extra egg to create a more cohesive texture.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Crispy Cauliflower Herb Nuggets are not only quick to prepare but also great for meal prep. If you're planning to make them ahead, you can shape the nuggets and refrigerate them for up to a day before baking. Just cover the tray with plastic wrap to keep them fresh. When ready to bake, there's no need to thaw; simply add a few extra minutes to the cooking time until they are golden and crispy.

You can also freeze the nuggets for longer storage. Place the shaped nuggets on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a zip-top bag. When you're ready to enjoy them, bake directly from frozen at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes. This method ensures that the nuggets maintain their original texture and flavor.

Dipping Sauce Variations

While the Greek yogurt dipping sauce adds a creamy, tangy flavor, feel free to switch it up based on your taste preferences. For a spicy kick, mix in some Sriracha or crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce. Adding fresh herbs like chives or cilantro can also enhance the overall freshness and pair beautifully with the herb flavors in the nuggets.

For a dairy-free option, substitute the Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt or make an avocado dip. Simply mash ripe avocado with lemon juice and a bit of garlic, achieving a creamy consistency that's perfect for dipping. These variations allow you to tailor the recipe to different dietary needs while keeping all the zing and excitement of the original.

Ingredients

For the Nuggets

1 medium cauliflower, cut into florets
1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably whole wheat)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg, beaten
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil spray

For the Dipping Sauce

1/2 cup Greek yogurt
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon honey
Salt to taste
1 teaspoon minced garlic (optional)

Instructions

Steps

Prepare the Cauliflower

Steam the cauliflower florets for about 5 minutes until just tender. Allow them to cool slightly, then chop finely.

Mix the Ingredients

In a bowl, combine the chopped cauliflower, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, parsley, dill, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Shape Nuggets

Using your hands, shape the mixture into small nuggets and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Bake Those Nuggets

Spray the nuggets lightly with olive oil and bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.

Prepare the Dipping Sauce

In a small bowl, mix together Greek yogurt, lemon juice, honey, salt, and minced garlic (if using) to create a refreshing dipping sauce.

Serve and Enjoy

Remove the nuggets from the oven and serve warm with the dipping sauce.

Pro Tips

For extra crispiness, consider air frying the nuggets instead of baking them. Also, feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to tailor the flavor to your liking.

Nutritional Benefits of Cauliflower

Cauliflower serves as the star ingredient in this recipe, providing a wide array of nutritional benefits. It’s rich in vitamins C and K, which help support immune health and promote strong bones. Additionally, cauliflower is high in fiber, making it a great choice for digestive health. By incorporating it into these nuggets, you're not only creating a tasty snack but also sneaking in some vegetables that kids and adults will appreciate alike.

The use of whole wheat breadcrumbs contributes additional fiber compared to traditional white breadcrumbs, making these nuggets a more wholesome option. It's a fantastic way to enjoy a comforting nugget experience while still sticking to healthier eating habits.

Serving Suggestions

These nuggets are versatile in their serving options. You can serve them as a party appetizer alongside a variety of dipping sauces, from sweet to savory, to cater to different palates. Consider pairing them with a spicy aioli or a zesty mustard blend for a bit more excitement on your appetizer table.

For a wholesome meal, serve the nuggets over a fresh salad or in a whole-wheat wrap with your favorite fresh veggies and dressing. This turns them into a fulfilling entrée that still feels light and healthy, perfect for lunch or dinner any day of the week.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen cauliflower?

Yes, just ensure you thaw and drain the excess moisture before mixing.

→ How can I store leftovers?

You can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

→ Is there a vegan option for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute the egg with a flaxseed meal mixture or applesauce.

→ What can I serve with these nuggets?

They pair well with a variety of dips such as salsa, barbecue sauce, or even hummus.