Cauliflower Gratin

 

Ingredients

• 4 cups 1-inch cauliflower florets (about 1/2 large head)
• 1 1/2 cups nonfat milk, divided
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup dry breadcrumbs, preferably whole-wheat
• 3/4 cup shredded sharp Cheddar cheese, divided
• 1/2 tsp extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1/4 teaspoon white pepper

Preparation

1. Position rack in upper third of oven
2. Bring cauliflower, 1 1/4 cups milk and salt to a boil in a large ovenproof dish over medium-high heat. Reduce heat, cover and simmer until the cauliflower is tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Meanwhile, combine breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup cheese and oil in a small bowl. Whisk flour and the remaining 1/4 cup milk in another small bowl until smooth; stir the mixture into the pan and cook, stirring, until thickened, about 1 minute. Stir in the remaining 1/2 cup cheese, chives, mustard and pepper. Sprinkle with the breadcrumb mixture. Bake until the top is crispy and beginning to brown, 1 to 2 minutes.