Keto Cauliflower Gratin with Lemon, Dill, and Cheese

Introduction

Welcome to a luxurious and comforting recipe that seamlessly fits into a ketogenic lifestyle: our Keto Cauliflower Gratin with Lemon, Dill, and Cheese. This dish transforms humble cauliflower into a creamy, flavorful, and indulgent side that is perfect for any meal, especially for those adhering to a low-carb diet. In this detailed guide, we will walk you through each step of creating this delicious keto-friendly gratin, ensuring every detail is covered to help you achieve the perfect result. You’ll also find information on nutrition, Weight Watchers SmartPoints®, and tips to enhance your cooking experience.

Ingredients

For the Cauliflower:

  • 1 large head of cauliflower
  • 3 slices of fresh lemon
  • 2 sprigs of fresh dill
  • 1/2 cup grated hard cheese (such as Parmesan or Pecorino Romano, adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 cup grated semi-hard cheese (such as Gruyère or Cheddar, adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (or to taste)
  • Salt (to taste)

For the Sauce:

  • 150 g (5.3 oz) unsalted butter
  • 250 ml (8.5 fl oz) unsweetened almond milk or heavy cream (for a richer sauce)
  • 2 tablespoons almond flour (to thicken the sauce, as a keto-friendly alternative to regular flour)
  • Salt (to taste)
  • Black pepper (to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (or to taste)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced (or to taste)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cauliflower: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the cauliflower into florets of uniform size to ensure even cooking. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cauliflower florets and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until tender but still firm. Drain the cauliflower and set it aside.

2. Flavor the Cauliflower: While the cauliflower is draining, prepare a baking dish by lightly greasing it with a bit of butter or non-stick spray. Arrange the cauliflower florets in the dish. Lay the lemon slices and dill sprigs over the top. This will infuse the cauliflower with fresh, aromatic flavors during baking.

3. Prepare the Cheese: Grate the hard cheese and semi-hard cheese. Combine them in a small bowl, mixing well to ensure an even blend. Set aside for later use.

4. Make the Keto-Friendly Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant but not browned. Sprinkle the almond flour over the melted butter and whisk continuously for about 1 minute to create a roux.

5. Add the Liquid: Gradually pour in the unsweetened almond milk or heavy cream while whisking to avoid lumps. Continue to whisk until the sauce starts to thicken, about 3-5 minutes. Season with salt, black pepper, and ground nutmeg to taste.

6. Combine and Cook: Pour the thickened sauce evenly over the cauliflower florets. Sprinkle the mixed cheeses over the top of the cauliflower and sauce. Add the dried rosemary, adjusting the quantity to your taste preference.

7. Bake the Dish: Place the prepared baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the top is golden brown. For a crispier top, you can broil the gratin for an additional 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.

8. Garnish and Serve: Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional fresh dill if desired. Serve warm as a side dish or a standalone low-carb meal.

Nutritional Information

Per Serving (Based on 6 servings):

  • Calories: 280
  • Total Carbohydrates: 8g
    • Net Carbs: 4g
  • Fat: 24g
  • Protein: 10g
  • Fiber: 4g

SmartPoints®: 10 (Weight Watchers)

Useful Tips

  1. Choosing Cauliflower: Opt for a large head of cauliflower to ensure you have enough florets to serve multiple people. Smaller heads may result in fewer servings.
  2. Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese based on your preference. For a stronger flavor, consider adding blue cheese or goat cheese to the mix.
  3. Thickening the Sauce: The almond flour serves as a low-carb thickening agent. If the sauce is too thick, you can thin it with a bit more almond milk or cream.
  4. Storage and Reheating: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain the crispy cheese topping or in the microwave for convenience.
  5. Make Ahead: This gratin can be assembled a day in advance. Simply prepare the dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake as instructed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
  6. Serving Suggestions: This gratin pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, such as chicken or steak, and complements other keto-friendly vegetables like roasted Brussels sprouts or a fresh green salad.

Conclusion

Our Keto Cauliflower Gratin with Lemon, Dill, and Cheese offers a decadent and satisfying dish that perfectly aligns with a ketogenic diet. The creamy cheese sauce combined with the zesty lemon and aromatic dill creates a flavor profile that is both comforting and refined. Whether you’re looking for a delightful side dish or a hearty low-carb main, this gratin delivers on both taste and nutritional value. Enjoy this keto-friendly recipe at your next meal and savor the richness of a dish made for those who love delicious, low-carb cuisine!

For more keto recipes and cooking tips, explore our website and stay tuned for new, innovative ways to enjoy low-carb living. Happy cooking!