Ingredients & Substitutions
Here I explain the best ingredients for steaming cauliflower what each one does in the recipe, and substitution options. For measurements, see the recipe card.
Basic Steamed Cauliflower:
Cauliflower – You’ll need a whole head of cauliflower. Remove the leaves and cut into florets. You can also use bagged florets to save time, but make sure to cut any larger pieces to match the smaller ones. Butter – You can use olive oil or avocado oil, but I think butter gives the best flavor in this steamed cauliflower recipe. You do you! Sea Salt & Black Pepper Water
Optional Flavor Boosters:
Garlic Powder – If you prefer, you can substitute it with 4 cloves of minced fresh garlic. Grated Parmesan Cheese – My fave topping for steamed cauliflower! I recommend it for an extra layer of savory flavor. Lemon Wedges – For a bright and zesty finish. You could also zest your lemon and stir into the dish if you like. Fresh Parsley – You can omit, or use other fresh herbs, like cilantro, chives, or dill. You can also add a sprinkle of Italian seasoning for a combination of herbs.
How To Steam Cauliflower
This section shows how to make steamed cauliflower, with step-by-step photos and details about the technique, to help you visualize it. For full instructions with amounts and temperatures, see the recipe card.
How Long To Steam Cauliflower?
Steam cauliflower for 5-8 minutes, or until fork tender. The time will vary depending on the size of your cauliflower florets and how soft you want them. (I think 6 minutes is perfect!) The water should be just below the basket, not submerging it, to prevent overcooking and nutrient loss.
Storage Instructions
Store: Keep steamed cauliflower in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Meal prep: Cut the cauliflower into florets and store in an airtight container in the fridge until ready to cook. You can also just steam cauliflower ahead and store for later! Reheat: Place the cauliflower in a microwave-safe bowl, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in the microwave in 30-second intervals, until warm. Freeze: Steamed cauliflower freezes very well! Cool completely, transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag, and store in the freezer for up to 12 months.
What To Serve With Steamed Cauliflower
You can serve this 10-minute side dish with almost any of my healthy dinner recipes, but here are a few ideas to get you started: Leftover steamed cauliflower is perfect for making mashed cauliflower, crisp tender cauliflower gnocchi, cauliflower soup, or a cauliflower casserole.
Chicken – Try Cornish hen for a gourmet meal, or for a casual pairing, tender Crock Pot chicken thighs or even a whole chicken in the Crock Pot. Seafood – I recently made a flounder recipe to pair with steamed cauliflower for an easy weeknight meal, and it was everything I imagined… in record time for a dinner meal. But if you want to get fancy, crab legs with lemon butter sauce taste amazing with this dish! Roast – For a comforting meal, pair this easy side with a rump roast or a tri tip roast. Pork – Make Crock Pot pork chops in a savory onion gravy, perfectly stuffed pork chops, or whip up some quick and easy air fryer pork chops.
More Easy Cauliflower Recipes
I have tons of cauliflower recipes, because this veggie is so tasty and versatile! Here are a few of my favorites: Please enter your first name for your account. Your saved recipe will also be sent to your email. Nutrition info does not include optional ingredients.
