Crispy roasted cauliflower is a delicious, healthy, and easy-to-make dish that brings out the natural sweetness of cauliflower while adding a satisfying crunch. This simple yet flavorful recipe is perfect as a snack, side dish, or even a light meal. With a few basic ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a crispy, golden-brown cauliflower that is packed with flavor.
Whether you’re looking for a low-carb alternative to traditional fried snacks or a nutritious way to enjoy vegetables, this crispy roasted cauliflower recipe is a must-try. The combination of spices and roasting technique enhances the taste and texture, making it a crowd-pleaser for all ages.
Ingredients
- 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon chili powder (optional, for a spicy kick)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch or arrowroot powder (for extra crispiness)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with oil to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Cauliflower
- Wash the cauliflower thoroughly and pat it dry with a clean towel.
- Cut it into evenly sized florets to ensure even cooking.
- Coat the Cauliflower
- In a large mixing bowl, add the cauliflower florets.
- Drizzle olive oil over the cauliflower and toss to coat evenly.
- In a small bowl, mix salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, chili powder, and cornstarch.
- Sprinkle the spice mixture over the cauliflower and toss well to ensure every floret is evenly coated.
- Arrange on the Baking Sheet
- Spread the seasoned cauliflower in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Make sure the florets are not overcrowded, allowing proper air circulation for crispiness.
- Roast the Cauliflower
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven.
- Roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping the florets halfway through the cooking time for even browning.
- If using Parmesan cheese, sprinkle it over the cauliflower during the last 5 minutes of roasting.
- Check for Crispiness
- The cauliflower should be golden brown and crispy on the edges when done.
- If you prefer extra crispiness, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
- Garnish and Serve
- Remove the roasted cauliflower from the oven and let it cool for a minute.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for added freshness.
- Serve hot with lemon wedges for a tangy flavor boost.
Tips for the Best Crispy Roasted Cauliflower
- Use high heat: Roasting at a high temperature ensures a crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender.
- Dry the cauliflower: Removing excess moisture helps achieve better crispiness.
- Even coating: Tossing the florets in oil and seasoning properly prevents uneven cooking.
- Flip halfway: Turning the cauliflower during roasting ensures all sides become golden and crisp.
- Broil for extra crunch: If you want a super crispy texture, broiling at the end enhances the crunch factor.