Creamy Avocado-Cauliflower 'Steak' with Basil Pesto

By AislePrompt Test Kitchen · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

A satisfying vegetarian dish featuring a seared cauliflower 'steak' drizzled with vibrant basil pesto, packed with healthy fats and fiber. This vegetarian-inspired vegetarian (vegetarian, keto-friendly) ready in about 30 minutes blends head cauliflower, avocado oil, fresh basil into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 280 calories and feeds 2, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

★ 4.2 (14 ratings) Prep: 20 min Cook: 10 min Serves 2 Vegetarian cuisine 280 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Cut cauliflower head into 3/4-inch thick slices. Heat 1 tbsp avocado oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
  2. Step 2: Sear cauliflower slices for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and tender, pressing gently to create a crust. Remove and set aside.
  3. Step 3: Blend 1/2 cup fresh basil, 1 tbsp pine nuts, 1 minced garlic clove, 1 tbsp olive oil, 1/2 tsp lemon juice, and 1/4 tsp salt in a food processor until smooth, scraping down sides as needed.
  4. Step 4: Drizzle pesto over seared cauliflower 'steaks' and serve immediately while warm.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Creamy Avocado-Cauliflower 'Steak' with Basil Pesto take to make?

Total time is about 30 minutes (20 min prep + 10 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Creamy Avocado-Cauliflower 'Steak' with Basil Pesto?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Creamy Avocado-Cauliflower 'Steak' with Basil Pesto?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Creamy Avocado-Cauliflower 'Steak' with Basil Pesto for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 2 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 2). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

Is Creamy Avocado-Cauliflower 'Steak' with Basil Pesto vegetarian?

Yes — this recipe is tagged vegetarian, keto-friendly based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.

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