Crispy Roasted Cauliflower is a simple, healthy, and delicious side dish that’s packed with flavor. Roasting cauliflower brings out its natural sweetness and makes it wonderfully crispy on the edges. The key is to toss it in olive oil, season it well, and roast it at a high temperature until it’s golden and crispy.
Here’s a straightforward recipe for making Crispy Roasted Cauliflower:
Crispy Roasted Cauliflower
Ingredients:
- 1 medium head of cauliflower (about 4 cups of florets)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric (optional, for extra color and flavor)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Freshly chopped parsley or cilantro (optional, for garnish)
- Fresh lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature ensures the cauliflower gets crispy and caramelized.
2. Prepare the Cauliflower:
- Cut the cauliflower into bite-sized florets. Make sure the pieces are roughly the same size so they cook evenly.
- You can save the cauliflower stem and use it for soups or stock if you’d like, but for this recipe, we’ll focus on the florets.
3. Season the Cauliflower:
- In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, turmeric (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Make sure the florets are well coated in the seasoning and oil. You can also use your hands to gently rub the oil and seasonings into the cauliflower.
4. Roast the Cauliflower:
- Spread the seasoned cauliflower florets in a single layer on a large baking sheet. Make sure they aren’t overcrowded, as this will prevent them from getting crispy. If needed, use two baking sheets.
- Roast in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, flipping the florets halfway through to ensure even crisping. The cauliflower should be golden brown and crispy on the edges.
5. Serve:
- Once roasted, remove the cauliflower from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro for a pop of color, if desired.
- Serve with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a burst of brightness, or enjoy it as is!
Tips for Extra Crispy Roasted Cauliflower:
- Cut Evenly: Make sure your cauliflower florets are all about the same size to ensure they roast evenly.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Overcrowding can cause the cauliflower to steam instead of roast, which means it won’t get crispy. Use two pans if necessary.
- Use Parchment Paper: Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper will make cleanup easier and prevent sticking.
- Optional Parmesan: For a cheesy twist, you can sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the cauliflower during the last 5 minutes of roasting.
Why You’ll Love This Crispy Roasted Cauliflower:
- Healthy: This is a nutritious side dish, full of fiber and vitamins, without any added guilt.
- Flavorful: The combination of garlic, onion, paprika, and lemon gives the cauliflower great depth of flavor.
- Versatile: You can serve this cauliflower with almost anything—grilled meats, pasta, or as a light main dish with a dip.
This Crispy Roasted Cauliflower is not only easy to make but also a crowd-pleaser for anyone looking to enjoy a healthier, crispy snack or side dish. It’s perfect for any meal!