Cauliflower Nuggets (Vegan, Gluten-Free)

The flavor is amazing, and they are perfect as an appetizer or smothered with your favorite sauce as a main course!

Also, try Baked Tofu Nuggets.

Feeling for some delicious cauliflower nuggets? These are full of flavor and also coated with gluten-free breading. My family enjoyed this recipe very much.

It is easy to make! I left the yeast flakes as optional for those who are on a yeast-free diet but yeast flakes really enhance the flavor!

Ingredients For Cauliflower Nuggets

• Cauliflower Florets: The star of the dish, cauliflower florets are cut from the head of the cauliflower and serve as a nutritious and versatile base. They have a mild, slightly nutty flavor that adapts well to various seasonings, making them perfect for nuggets.
• Vegan Mayonnaise: This egg-free alternative to traditional mayonnaise adds creaminess and binds the other ingredients together. It helps in creating a moist texture inside the nuggets while allowing the outer coating to crisp beautifully.
• Gluten-Free Flour: A key ingredient for those avoiding gluten, this flour is used to help form the outer crust of the nuggets. It provides structure and ensures they hold together during cooking.
• Nutritional yeast flakes: These flakes add a cheesy, umami flavor without any dairy. Nutritional yeast is also packed with nutrients, including B-vitamins, making it a favorite in vegan cooking.
• Onion Powder:Provides a concentrated burst of savory flavor, enhancing the nuggets’ taste without using fresh onions.
• Garlic Powder: Similar to onion powder, garlic powder provides a rich, aromatic flavor that is essential for creating a depth of taste in the nuggets.
• Ground paprika: This spice adds warmth and a vibrant color to the nuggets, imparting a subtle sweetness and smokiness that complements the cauliflower.
• Italian Seasoning: A blend of dried herbs including oregano, thyme, basil, and rosemary, Italian seasoning brings a classic Mediterranean flair to the dish, enriching the nuggets with a herby zest.
• Turmeric Powder: Known for its bright yellow color and anti-inflammatory properties, turmeric adds a mild, earthy flavor and a beautiful golden hue to the nuggets.
• Sea Salt: A sprinkle of sea salt enhances all the flavors in the nuggets, helping to balance the spices and the natural taste of the cauliflower, making each bite perfectly seasoned.

How to Make Cauliflower Nuggets?

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside. 
2. Place cauliflower florets in a bowl, toss with mayonnaise, and set aside.
3. In a small bowl, combine flour, yeast flakes, onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, and turmeric powder. Mix well.
4. Dip cauliflower florets in breading, place them on a baking sheet, and repeat until all florets are coated.
5. Bake for 30 minutes, turning halfway. Delicious served with ketchup or barbecue sauce.

Other Vegan Recipes To Try

• Vegan Chicken Nuggets

These cauliflower nuggets are packed with flavor! They are perfect as an appetizer or as a side dish! The best time to serve them is right away while they are still hot! I prepare them last, baking while assembling a salad, setting the table, and making final touches before guests arrive.

Update: I feel so honored because my cauliflower nuggets were included in the menu of the Vegetarian Society of DC (VSDC) Thanksgiving Dinner last year. This event is hosted annually, where vegetarians and non-vegetarians come together to give thanks and enjoy vegetarian dishes.

The event also features an influential keynote speaker and entertainers. I hope to go to this special event someday.

Get discounted copies of my cookbook here.

Fortunately, because of the ads on our website, readers and subscribers of Healthier Steps are sponsoring many underprivileged families.

Michelle Blackwood, RN

Hi, I’m Michelle, I’m the voice, content creator and photographer behind Healthier Steps. I share vegan and gluten-free recipes because of past health issues. My goal is to help you make healthier choices and show you how healthy eating is easy and delicious.