Roasted cauliflower is a culinary delight that has captured the hearts of many around the world. This versatile vegetable, when roasted to perfection, transforms into a dish that is both flavorful and nutritious. The process of roasting cauliflower enhances its natural sweetness, adds a delightful crunch, and introduces a variety of flavors that can range from simple and savory to complex and aromatic. Whether you’re looking to add a side dish to your meal or create a main course, roasted cauliflower is an excellent choice. Its cultural significance lies in its adaptability; it can be seasoned with a variety of spices and herbs, making it a staple in many cuisines. From the Mediterranean to the Indian subcontinent, roasted cauliflower has been a favorite for centuries, and its popularity continues to grow as people discover its ease of preparation and rich flavor profile.
- 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into florets (about 8 cups)
- 3 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 1/2 tsp. paprika
- 3/4 tsp. kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp. cracked black pepper
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 to 3 Tbsp. grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for a vegan version)
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- 2 Tbsp. finely chopped fresh parsley (or dill or chives)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Place a large rimmed baking sheet on the center rack of the oven and preheat to 450°F (230°C).
- Prepare Cauliflower: Cut the cauliflower into small florets and add them to a large bowl.
- Toss with Seasonings: Toss the cauliflower with olive oil, paprika, salt, and black pepper until the florets are evenly coated.
- Roast Cauliflower: Empty the cauliflower onto the preheated baking sheet, arranging the florets in a single layer to avoid overcrowding. Roast for 20 to 25 minutes, tossing once midway through, until lightly charred and tender.
- Add Parmesan and Garlic: Sprinkle Parmesan cheese and garlic over the cauliflower and return it to the oven for an additional 5 minutes.
- Finish with Lemon and Parsley: Remove the cauliflower from the oven and spritz with lemon juice. Garnish with fresh parsley, dill, or chives.
Top Tips:
- Choose Fresh Cauliflower: Opt for a fresh head of cauliflower to ensure the best flavor and texture.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Arrange the cauliflower florets in a single layer to promote even roasting and prevent steaming.
- Toss Midway: Toss the cauliflower halfway through roasting to ensure even browning.
- Use High-Quality Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese adds a rich, umami flavor to the dish.
- Experiment with Herbs: Try using different herbs like parsley, dill, or chives to add unique flavors to your roasted cauliflower.
- Reheat Carefully: To reheat leftover cauliflower, use an air fryer or oven at 350°F (175°C) to maintain its crisp texture.
Variations:
- Spicy Roasted Cauliflower: Add 1 teaspoon of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of cumin, and ½ teaspoon of smoked paprika to the seasoning mixture for a spicy twist.
- Curry Roasted Cauliflower: Sprinkle 1-2 teaspoons of curry powder over the cauliflower before roasting for an exotic flavor.
- Cajun Roasted Cauliflower: Use 1 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning for a bold, spicy flavor.
- Herb Roasted Cauliflower: Mix 2 teaspoons of dried herbs like basil, oregano, rosemary, and thyme into the seasoning mixture for a herby flavor.
- Roasted Cauliflower with Raisins and Pine Nuts: Toast ¼ cup of pine nuts in a skillet and add ¼ cup of golden raisins to the roasted cauliflower for a sweet and nutty combination.
Nutritional Guide:
| Nutrient | Per Serving (serves 4) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150-200 |
| Fat | 8-10g |
| Carbohydrates | 20-25g |
| Protein | 5-6g |
Additional Nutritional Notes:
Roasted cauliflower is a nutrient-rich side dish that is low in calories and high in fiber. The addition of olive oil provides healthy fats, while the Parmesan cheese adds protein and calcium. This recipe is also vegan-friendly if you substitute the Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast. The lemon juice adds a burst of vitamin C, making this dish both flavorful and nutritious.
