Easy Roasted Cauliflower Recipe
This recipe is a great way to turn plain cauliflower into a delicious and versatile side dish.
Ingredients:
- 1 head of cauliflower, cut into florets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional additions:
- 1-2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for the last 5 minutes of roasting)
Cooking Guide:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper. You can also add any of the optional ingredients you like here.
- Spread the cauliflower florets in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure they are not crowded, as this will prevent them from crisping up properly.
- Roast the cauliflower for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and golden brown. You can check for doneness by piercing a floret with a fork. It should be tender but not mushy.
- (Optional) If you’re using Parmesan cheese, sprinkle it over the cauliflower florets in the last 5 minutes of roasting for an extra cheesy flavor.
Tips:
- For even crispier cauliflower, cut the florets into smaller, bite-sized pieces.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet. This will steam the cauliflower instead of roasting it, resulting in a soggy texture.
- If your cauliflower starts to brown too quickly, reduce the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) for the remaining cooking time.
- Roasted cauliflower is delicious on its own, but you can also dress it up with a variety of toppings. Try sprinkling it with chopped fresh herbs, a squeeze of lemon juice, or a drizzle of hot sauce.
- Roasted cauliflower can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Enjoy your easy and delicious roasted cauliflower!