Crispy Roasted Cauliflower recipe

Here’s a Crispy Roasted Cauliflower recipe that’s easy, full of flavor, and perfect for a healthy side dish!

Crispy Roasted Cauliflower Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp ground cumin (optional, for extra flavor)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp cornstarch (optional, for extra crispiness)
• 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for a cheesy finish)
• Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven:
   • Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the cauliflower:
   • Cut the cauliflower into florets, trying to keep them roughly the same size for even cooking. Remove the stem and break it into bite-sized pieces.
3. Season the cauliflower:
   • In a large mixing bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, cumin (if using), salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
   • For extra crispiness, sprinkle the cornstarch over the cauliflower and toss again until the florets are lightly coated. This helps give the cauliflower a golden, crispy texture as it roasts.
4. Roast the cauliflower:
   • Spread the seasoned cauliflower in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure the florets are not overcrowded to allow them to crisp up properly.
   • Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the cauliflower is golden and crispy around the edges.
5. Optional cheesy finish:
   • If you’re adding Parmesan cheese, sprinkle it over the cauliflower in the last 5 minutes of roasting, allowing it to melt and crisp up.
6. Serve:
   • Once crispy, remove the cauliflower from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro, if desired.
   • Serve immediately as a side dish or snack!

Tips:

• Crispier cauliflower: The addition of cornstarch is key for that extra crispiness! If you don’t mind a slightly less crispy version, you can skip it.
• Flavor variations: You can customize the seasonings to your taste—add chili flakes for spice, or mix in lemon zest for a citrusy kick.
• Make it a meal: You can top the roasted cauliflower with a little tahini sauce or yogurt for added richness.

This Crispy Roasted Cauliflower will be your new go-to side dish or snack, packed with flavor and satisfying texture!