Crispy Roasted Cauliflower Recipe

Crispy Roasted Cauliflower Recipe

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This recipe yields perfectly roasted cauliflower florets with crispy edges and tender insides. It’s a versatile side dish that can be seasoned in countless ways.

Ingredients:

  • 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets  
  • 2-3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
  • Optional seasonings (choose one or a combination):
    • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
    • 1 teaspoon onion powder
    • 1/2 teaspoon paprika (smoked or sweet)
    • 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
    • 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
    • Fresh herbs (like thyme, rosemary, or parsley), chopped
    • Lemon juice (a squeeze after roasting)
    • Parmesan cheese(grated after roasting)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Prepare the Cauliflower:
    • Wash the cauliflower head thoroughly.
    • Cut the cauliflower into florets, ensuring they are roughly the same size for even cooking.
  3. Season the Cauliflower:
    • In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
    • Add any optional seasonings you desire (garlic powder, paprika, etc.) and toss to coat evenly.
  4. Arrange on Baking Sheet:
    • Spread the cauliflower florets in a single layer on a large baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding, as this will prevent them from crisping. If necessary use two baking sheets.
  5. Roast:
    • Roast the cauliflower in the preheated oven for 20-30 minutes, or until tender and golden brown with crispy edges.
    • Flip the florets halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning.
  6. Optional Finishing Touches:
    • Once roasted, you can add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
    • Add fresh herbs.
  7. Serve:
    • Serve the crispy roasted cauliflower immediately as a side dish.

Tips for Extra Crispy Cauliflower:

  • Dry the Cauliflower: Make sure the cauliflower florets are as dry as possible before tossing them with oil and seasonings. Excess moisture will steam the cauliflower instead of roasting it.
  • High Heat: A higher oven temperature helps to crisp the edges.
  • Don’t Overcrowd: Give the cauliflower space on the baking sheet to allow hot air to circulate.
  • Flip Halfway: Flipping the florets halfway through ensures even browning and crisping.
  • Broil (Optional): For extra crispy edges, you can broil the cauliflower for the last 1-2 minutes of cooking. Watch closely to prevent burning.

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