Cauliflower is having its moment in the spotlight, and for a good reason. This crispy roasted cauliflower with a sprinkle of Parmesan creates a delightful combination of textures and flavors that will leave you craving more. It’s a simple yet satisfying dish that makes a fantastic side or a light main course.
Perfect for those days when you want something deliciously different, this recipe is a testament to how versatile and tasty vegetables can be. Ready to transform this humble veggie into a star? Let’s get cooking!
Steps
- Preheat your oven to 425°F and prepare a rimmed baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Slice the cauliflower head into 1/2-inch thick steaks and break them into bite-sized pieces for even roasting.
- Place the cauliflower pieces in the center of the prepared baking sheet, then drizzle with olive oil and melted butter. Toss the pieces to ensure they are well-coated.
- In a bowl, mix garlic powder, salt, paprika, and black pepper. Sprinkle this seasoning over the cauliflower and toss again to coat evenly.
- Spread the seasoned cauliflower into a single layer on the baking sheet, ensuring even spacing for consistent roasting.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cauliflower becomes tender and golden brown around the edges.
- Adjust the baking time based on the size and thickness of the cauliflower pieces to achieve your preferred level of crispiness.
Ingredients
- 1 medium cauliflower, sliced into small florets or 1/2″ thick steaks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon ground paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper, or to taste
Nutritional Values
Calories: 600 kcal | Carbs: 30 g | Protein: 12 g | Fat: 54 g | Saturated Fat: 18 g | Trans Fat: N/A | Cholesterol: 60 mg | Sodium: 1338 mg | Potassium: 1764 mg | Fiber: 12 g | Sugar: 12 g | Vitamin A: 948 IU | Vitamin C: 276 mg | Calcium: 138 mg | Iron: 6 mg
FAQ
- Can I add cheese to the roasted cauliflower?
- Absolutely! For a cheesy twist, sprinkle 1/2 cup of shredded parmesan cheese over the cauliflower during the last 5 minutes of baking to create a delicious parmesan roasted cauliflower.
- How do I prepare cauliflower steaks for roasting?
- Slice the cauliflower head into 4-5 wedges, then cut these wedges into 1/2-inch thick steaks. Break the steaks into bite-sized pieces. When roasted, the flat sides of the pieces caramelize beautifully, adding a rich flavor.
- What is the optimal baking time for roasted cauliflower?
- Baking time varies based on the size of your cauliflower pieces. Smaller pieces typically take about 15-20 minutes, whereas larger florets might need 20-25 minutes to become caramelized and golden.
- Can I prepare roasted cauliflower in an air fryer?
- Yes, you can! Skip the butter and use 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil. Air fry the cauliflower at 375?F for 10-15 minutes, flipping every 5 minutes, until it is golden and tender.
- How can I store and reheat leftover roasted cauliflower?
- After cooling to room temperature, cover and refrigerate leftover cauliflower for up to 3 days. To reheat, use a stovetop, oven, or air fryer until warmed through.
Tips
- Customize the Seasoning: Cauliflower pairs well with a variety of seasonings. Feel free to experiment with different spices you have on hand. A simple combination of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika works beautifully, but you can also add a sprinkle of parmesan cheese towards the end of baking for an added flavor boost.
- Cut Evenly for Consistent Cooking: When slicing the cauliflower, aim for even-sized pieces or steaks. This ensures that all pieces cook at the same rate, leading to uniformly caramelized and tender florets.
- Use Parchment Paper for Easy Cleanup: Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper not only prevents sticking but also makes cleaning up a breeze.
- Consider Air Frying for Quick Results: If you’re short on time, try cooking your cauliflower in an air fryer. Use olive oil and air fry at 375°F for 10-15 minutes, turning them every 5 minutes, until they achieve a golden and tender finish.
Equipment
- Rimmed Baking Sheet – Essential for roasting the cauliflower evenly.
- Parchment Paper – Useful for lining the baking sheet to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Air Fryer (optional) – If following the air fryer instructions, this could be purchased if not already available.
- Chef’s Knife – For slicing the cauliflower into steaks or florets.
- Cutting Board – Necessary for safely cutting the cauliflower.
