Crispy roasted cauliflower is a simple yet irresistible dish that transforms an everyday vegetable into a flavorful, golden, and crunchy delight. With the perfect balance of spices and a satisfying texture, this recipe is ideal as a healthy snack, a side dish, or even a main course for plant-based meals.
Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of cauliflower while giving it a beautifully crisp exterior. Whether you’re trying to eat more vegetables, impress guests, or enjoy a low-carb alternative to fried snacks, this crispy roasted cauliflower recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients
1 large head of cauliflower
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon ground black pepper
½ teaspoon sea salt
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
2 tablespoons cornstarch or rice flour (for extra crispiness)
Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Lemon wedges for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). A hot oven is essential to get that perfectly crispy texture on the cauliflower.
- Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Rinse the cauliflower and pat it dry thoroughly with a clean kitchen towel. Removing excess moisture is key to getting it crispy.
- Cut the cauliflower into bite-sized florets. Try to keep them roughly the same size so they roast evenly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, sea salt, and cayenne pepper if using. Stir well to create a seasoned oil mixture.
- Add the cauliflower florets into the bowl and toss until they are evenly coated with the spiced oil.
- Sprinkle the cornstarch or rice flour over the coated florets and toss again. This step adds an extra layer of crispiness that mimics the texture of deep-fried vegetables.
- Spread the cauliflower out on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, making sure the pieces aren’t too close together. Crowding the pan can cause steaming instead of roasting.
- Roast the cauliflower in the preheated oven for about 25 to 30 minutes, flipping the pieces halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning on all sides.
- When the cauliflower is golden brown and crispy on the edges, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 2-3 minutes. This short resting time helps it retain its crispness.
- Optionally, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or cilantro on top for a pop of color and freshness.
- Serve the crispy roasted cauliflower immediately, either on its own or with your favorite dipping sauce. A squeeze of lemon juice adds brightness and enhances the flavor beautifully.
This crispy roasted cauliflower recipe is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile. You can change up the spices to suit your taste, add Parmesan cheese for a savory twist, or toss it in buffalo sauce for a spicy version. It’s gluten-free, vegan, and packed with fiber and antioxidants, making it a guilt-free treat that doesn’t compromise on flavor. Whether served as a healthy party appetizer or a satisfying side dish, crispy roasted cauliflower is bound to win hearts and satisfy cravings.