Norwegian Grilled Cauliflower with Hazelnut Pesto

Introduction

Experience a Norwegian-inspired delight with this grilled cauliflower dish, featuring a nutty, rich hazelnut pesto that enhances the charred flavors. Cooked to perfection on the Arteflame grill, this dish brings out the best in fresh ingredients while creating a visually stunning and flavorful masterpiece.

Ingredients

• 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into thick slices
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tsp sea salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 cup hazelnuts, toasted
• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
• 1 clove garlic
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/3 cup olive oil
• 1 tbsp lemon juice

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins.
2. Place the soaked napkins in the Arteflame grill.
3. Stack firewood on top of the napkins.
4. Light the paper and allow the fire to build for about 20 minutes.

Step 2: Season the Cauliflower

1. Brush the cauliflower slices with melted butter.
2. Sprinkle sea salt and black pepper evenly on both sides.

Step 3: Grill the Cauliflower

1. Place the cauliflower slices on the flat cooktop near the center for a deeper sear.
2. Grill for about 5-7 minutes per side, flipping once.
3. Move the cauliflower towards the outer edge to complete cooking at a lower temperature if needed.

Step 4: Prepare the Hazelnut Pesto

1. Grill the hazelnuts on the flat top griddle for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
2. Combine toasted hazelnuts, basil, garlic, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, and lemon juice in a blender.
3. Blend until smooth.

Step 5: Assemble and Serve

1. Drizzle the hazelnut pesto over the charred cauliflower.
2. Garnish with additional Parmesan if desired.
3. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips

• Use fresh, high-quality hazelnuts for maximum flavor.
• Ensure the cauliflower is cut into thick slices to prevent it from falling apart while grilling.
• Adjust grill zones to control searing and cooking temperatures.

Variations

1. Spicy Norwegian Cauliflower: Add red chili flakes to the hazelnut pesto for a spicy kick.
2. Garlic Butter Grilled Cauliflower: Replace hazelnut pesto with a garlic butter sauce for extra richness.
3. Norwegian Herb-Infused Pesto: Mix fresh dill and parsley with basil for a Nordic herb variation.
4. Parmesan-Crusted Cauliflower: Add extra Parmesan to form a golden, crispy crust on the cauliflower.
5. Smoky Almond Pesto: Swap hazelnuts for smoked almonds for a deep, smoky flavor.

Conclusion

This Norwegian Grilled Cauliflower with Hazelnut Pesto is packed with bold, nutty flavors, crispy char, and a creamy pesto sauce, making it a perfect dish for any occasion.

Best Pairings

• Grilled Norwegian salmon with lemon butter
• Roasted garlic new potatoes
• Crisp green salad with vinaigrette
• Chilled white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc