Buffalo Cauliflower Bites with Cream Cheese Dip

Ingredients:

For the Cauliflower:

• 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets

• ½ cup buffalo sauce (Primal Kitchen is my favorite)

• 3/4 cup almond flour (or regular flour for a traditional option)

• ½ cup water (or milk for added flavor)

• ½ tsp garlic powder

• Pinch of salt and pepper

• 1 tbsp potato starch (optional for extra crispiness)

For the Cream Cheese Dip:

• 4 oz light cream cheese, softened

• ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt

• 1 tbsp ranch seasoning or ½ tsp dried dill, parsley, and onion powder mix

• 1–2 tbsp milk (to adjust the dip's consistency)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cauliflower:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the almond flour, tapioca starch, water (or almond milk), garlic powder, salt, and pepper until a thick, smooth batter forms.

3. Toss the cauliflower florets into the batter, ensuring they’re fully coated. Shake off any excess batter before placing them on the prepared baking sheet.

2. Roast the Cauliflower:

1. Spread the battered cauliflower florets evenly across the baking sheet, ensuring they’re not crowded to allow for crisp edges.

2. Roast for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even cooking. The batter will crisp up as it cooks.

3. Add the Buffalo Sauce:

1. While the cauliflower is roasting, mix the buffalo sauce with 1 tablespoon of melted butter or olive oil for added flavor.

2. After 20 minutes of roasting, remove the cauliflower from the oven. Gently toss the florets in the buffalo sauce until evenly coated.

3. Return the sauced cauliflower to the baking sheet and roast for an additional 8–10 minutes, or until the sauce caramelizes slightly.

4. Make the Cream Cheese Dip:

1. While the cauliflower is roasting, prepare the dip. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the softened cream cheese, Greek yogurt, and ranch seasoning until smooth.

2. Add 1–2 tablespoons of milk to thin the dip to your desired consistency. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.

5. Serve and Enjoy:

1. Once the cauliflower bites are roasted to perfection, transfer them to a serving platter.

2. Serve with the cream cheese dip on the side or drizzle the dip over the bites for a creamy, tangy finish.

Optional Toppings and Variations:

• Sprinkle chopped green onions, crumbled blue cheese, or parsley over the bites before serving.

• Add a touch of honey to the buffalo sauce for a sweet and spicy flavor twist.

• Make it vegan by swapping butter for olive oil and using plant-based yogurt and cream cheese for the dip.

This recipe is perfect as a game-day snack or appetizer and is packed with flavor without feeling heavy!