Crispy Roasted Cauliflower is a simple yet incredibly flavorful dish that’s perfect as a side or a main course for a light meal. This recipe highlights the natural sweetness of cauliflower while adding a delightful crispy texture. The cauliflower florets are seasoned with a mix of spices, then roasted to golden-brown perfection. The dish is finished with a tangy lemon zest and fresh herbs, making it a versatile and healthy addition to any meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Prepare the Cauliflower: Wash the cauliflower and cut it into bite-sized florets. Pat the florets dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. This will help achieve a crispy texture when roasting.
- Season the Cauliflower: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cauliflower florets with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, turmeric, cumin, salt, and pepper. Toss well to ensure the florets are evenly coated with the seasoning mixture.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Spread the seasoned cauliflower florets in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure the florets are not overcrowded to allow even roasting.
- Roast the Cauliflower: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 25-30 minutes, or until the cauliflower is golden brown and crispy. Stir the florets halfway through the cooking time to ensure even roasting.
- Add Lemon and Herbs: Once the cauliflower is done roasting, remove the baking sheet from the oven. Immediately sprinkle the lemon zest over the hot cauliflower and toss to combine. This will add a bright and tangy flavor to the dish. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
- Serve: Transfer the crispy roasted cauliflower to a serving platter. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of citrus flavor.
Serve: This Crispy Roasted Cauliflower serves 4-6 people as a side dish. It pairs well with grilled meats, fish, or can be enjoyed on its own as a light meal.
Calories: Approximately 100-150 calories per serving, depending on portion size and specific ingredients used.
Additional Tips:
- Variations: Feel free to customize the seasoning mix to your taste. You can add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat or use different herbs like rosemary or thyme for a unique flavor profile.
- Dipping Sauce: Serve the roasted cauliflower with a dipping sauce such as a garlic aioli, tahini sauce, or a yogurt-based dip for added flavor.
- Make-Ahead Tips: You can prepare the cauliflower florets and seasoning mix ahead of time. Store them in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator until ready to roast.
Enjoy your cooking! If you have any other requests or need more recipes, feel free to ask.