Crispy roasted cauliflower is a fantastic side dish that’s easy to make, flavorful, and super satisfying. The roasting process caramelizes the cauliflower, creating that irresistible crispiness while keeping the inside tender. Here’s a simple recipe to make crispy roasted cauliflower that will have everyone coming back for more!
Crispy Roasted Cauliflower
Ingredients:
- 1 medium cauliflower, cut into florets
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
Instructions:
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Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature helps the cauliflower get crispy and golden.
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Prepare the Cauliflower:
- Cut the cauliflower into bite-sized florets. Try to keep them roughly the same size to ensure even roasting.
- Pat the florets dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This will help them crisp up nicely.
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Season the Cauliflower:
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In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until evenly coated. Make sure every floret gets a little bit of seasoning.
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If you want a cheesy kick, sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the cauliflower before roasting.
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Roast the Cauliflower:
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Arrange the cauliflower florets in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Don’t overcrowd the pan to allow air circulation, which will help them crisp up.
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Roast in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the cauliflower is golden brown and crispy on the edges. The outer layers should be nice and crispy, while the inside remains tender.
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Garnish and Serve:
- Once the cauliflower is crispy and browned, remove it from the oven. You can garnish it with a little bit of fresh parsley for a pop of color.
- Serve with lemon wedges on the side for a fresh, zesty finish.
Tips for Extra Crispy Cauliflower:
- Use a high smoke point oil like olive oil or avocado oil for the best results.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet. If needed, use two sheets to ensure the cauliflower has enough space to crisp up.
- If you like your cauliflower extra crispy, after 25 minutes of roasting, switch the oven to broil for an additional 2-3 minutes to brown the tops (just keep a close eye on it so it doesn’t burn).
- Add a little chili flakes or cumin for some extra flavor and heat!
Serving Ideas:
- Serve this crispy roasted cauliflower as a side dish with your favorite protein (chicken, steak, fish) or enjoy it as a vegetarian main.
- It also pairs wonderfully with a yogurt-based dip like tzatziki or ranch dressing for dipping.
This dish is guaranteed to impress, whether you’re serving it at a dinner party or enjoying it on a cozy night in. 🍽️ Enjoy!