Looking for a simple way to make cauliflower taste amazing? This roasted cauliflower recipe is easy, quick and turns plain cauliflower into a golden, crispy, and flavourful dish that goes well with almost any meal. Whether you’re making lunch or dinner, this roasted veggie side dish is sure to impress everyone at the table. A little lemon juice at the end makes it even better!
Ingredients You Will Need
To make this roasted cauliflower, you’ll need just a few basic things from your kitchen. Here’s what you need:
- 1 large head of cauliflower (chopped into small florets, about 10 cups)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 5 large garlic cloves (finely chopped)
- Optional: 1/4 cup parmesan cheese (dairy-free Violife works too)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Step-by-Step Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (about 220°C).
Step 2: Prepare the Cauliflower
Place the cauliflower florets on a large baking tray. Pour the olive oil over them and toss well, so the oil covers all the pieces.
Step 3: Add Spices
Sprinkle paprika, salt, and black pepper on the cauliflower. Toss again to mix everything evenly.
Step 4: Bake the Cauliflower
Spread the cauliflower in a single layer on the tray. Bake it in the oven for 20 to 25 minutes, until it turns golden brown and becomes tender.
Step 5: Add Garlic (and Cheese, If Using)
Take the tray out briefly and sprinkle the minced garlic on top. If you’re using cheese, add it now. Put the tray back in the oven and bake for 5 more minutes.
Step 6: Add the Finishing Touches
Once it’s done, remove the tray from the oven. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the cauliflower and sprinkle chopped parsley on top.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve the roasted cauliflower hot. It tastes best when fresh out of the oven, crispy and full of flavour!
Tips for Reheating
If you have leftovers, you can reheat them easily. Just microwave for a minute or two until warm. For a crispier texture, reheat in an air fryer or oven at 350°F (around 180°C) until hot and crispy again.
Why You’ll Love This Roasted Cauliflower
Roasting brings out the natural sweetness in cauliflower and gives it a crispy texture. It’s healthy, easy to make, and full of flavour. You can even change up the spices or try different toppings like cheese or nuts. It’s perfect as a side dish or even a light snack!
FAQs
Can I use frozen cauliflower instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen cauliflower works too! Just thaw it and dry it well with a towel before roasting so it becomes crispy in the oven.
How do I store leftover roasted cauliflower?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It stays good for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave, oven, or air fryer for best results.
Can I skip the cheese or use a vegan alternative?
Yes, the cheese is totally optional. You can skip it or use a dairy-free option like Violife or even nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste.
What can I serve roasted cauliflower with?
Roasted cauliflower goes well with rice, dal, pasta, or even just a bowl of soup. It’s a great side dish for almost any meal.
How do I make the cauliflower spicier?
To make it spicy, just add red chilli flakes, cayenne pepper, or even a pinch of garam masala while seasoning the cauliflower.
