Crispy Roasted Cauliflower is a simple, healthy, and delicious side dish that’s packed with flavor and easy to make. Here’s a quick recipe for perfectly crispy roasted cauliflower:
Crispy Roasted Cauliflower
Ingredients:
- 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into florets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin (optional, for a warm spice)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
- Fresh lemon wedges (for serving, optional)
- Fresh parsley or cilantro (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Prepare the Cauliflower:
- Cut the cauliflower into bite-sized florets. Try to keep them uniform in size so they cook evenly.
- Season the Cauliflower:
- In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, cumin (if using), salt, and pepper. Make sure all the florets are well coated with the seasoning.
- Roast the Cauliflower:
- Spread the seasoned cauliflower in a single layer on a baking sheet. You can line the sheet with parchment paper for easier cleanup.
- Roast for 25-30 minutes, tossing halfway through, until the cauliflower is golden brown and crispy on the edges.
- Optional: Add Parmesan
- For a cheesy touch, sprinkle the roasted cauliflower with grated Parmesan cheese during the last 5 minutes of roasting. This will melt and create a crispy, cheesy crust.
- Serve:
- Remove from the oven and squeeze a fresh lemon wedge over the cauliflower for some zesty flavor.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or cilantro, if desired.
Tips:
- For extra crispiness, you can broil the cauliflower for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking.
- You can swap the seasonings for other spices, such as turmeric, curry powder, or chili flakes, for different flavor profiles.
- Try adding a drizzle of tahini or a sprinkle of pine nuts for added texture and flavor.
This Crispy Roasted Cauliflower makes a fantastic side dish, snack, or even a topping for grain bowls and salads. Enjoy! Would you like to try adding a dip for this or any other veggie recipes?