Name: Easy Roasted Cauliflower Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 medium cauliflower, sliced into small florets or ½” thick steaks; 2 Tbsp olive oil; 2 Tbsp unsalted butter, melted; ½ tsp garlic powder; ½ tsp salt (or to taste); ¼ tsp ground paprika; ¼ tsp ground black pepper (or to taste)

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Oven-roasted cauliflower is a simple, delicious, and healthy side dish that can be served with virtually any meal. The cauliflower florets are drizzled in a flavorful blend of olive oil, butter, and spices, creating a golden, crisp exterior while keeping the inside tender and perfectly cooked. This recipe is so easy to make and requires minimal preparation, making it a perfect choice for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Whether you’re a long-time fan of cauliflower or trying it for the first time, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.

The combination of garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper enhances the natural sweetness of the cauliflower, while the olive oil and melted butter bring out a rich, savory flavor. The roasting process gives the cauliflower a beautiful caramelized edge, making it a satisfying dish that even the pickiest eaters will enjoy. Best of all, it only takes 30 minutes from prep to plate!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy

With only 10 minutes of prep and 20 minutes of cooking, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you need a quick and nutritious side dish.

2. Versatile Flavor Profile

The simple seasoning of garlic, paprika, and black pepper creates a savory base, while the butter and olive oil add richness to the cauliflower, making it a great accompaniment to nearly any main dish.

3. Healthier Alternative

Roasting cauliflower is a healthy alternative to fried side dishes, offering a nutritious, fiber-rich option that’s low in calories and high in vitamins.

4. Crowd-Pleaser

Even those who aren’t usually fans of cauliflower will love this roasted version. It’s crispy, flavorful, and full of satisfying textures.

5. Customizable

You can easily modify the seasonings to suit your tastes, from adding a bit of heat with chili flakes to experimenting with different herbs or cheese toppings.

Ingredients

1 medium cauliflower, sliced into small florets or ½” thick steaks
2 Tbsp olive oil
2 Tbsp unsalted butter, melted
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp salt (or to taste)
¼ tsp ground paprika
¼ tsp ground black pepper (or to taste)

Variations

Spicy Cauliflower: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix for an extra kick.
Cheesy Cauliflower: Top the roasted cauliflower with freshly grated Parmesan or cheddar cheese during the last few minutes of roasting for a cheesy, crispy topping.
Herb-Infused Cauliflower: Add fresh or dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano for a more aromatic flavor.
Lemon Zest: For a fresh, citrusy touch, add a little lemon zest or a squeeze of lemon juice after roasting.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature ensures that the cauliflower will roast quickly, developing a crispy, golden-brown exterior.

Step 2: Prepare the Cauliflower

Slice the cauliflower into small florets or ½” thick steaks, depending on your preference. Ensure the pieces are roughly the same size to ensure even cooking.

Step 3: Season the Cauliflower

In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, melted butter, garlic powder, salt, paprika, and black pepper. Toss the cauliflower pieces in the seasoning mixture until evenly coated.

Step 4: Roast the Cauliflower

Spread the seasoned cauliflower in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Roast in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the cauliflower is golden and crispy on the edges, flipping halfway through for even browning.

Step 5: Serve

Once roasted to perfection, remove from the oven and transfer the cauliflower to a serving dish. Serve immediately, or garnish with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice for extra flavor.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Uniform Size: Cut the cauliflower into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking. If you prefer crispier edges, slice the florets into thicker pieces.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Spread the cauliflower out in a single layer on the baking sheet. Overcrowding will cause the cauliflower to steam rather than roast.
Customize the Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the amount of garlic, salt, or paprika to suit your taste preferences.
Use Parchment Paper: Line your baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

How to Serve

As a Side Dish: Serve this roasted cauliflower alongside grilled chicken, roasted meats, or a hearty vegetarian dish like quinoa or couscous.
Topped with Sauce: For added flavor, drizzle with your favorite sauce, such as tahini, ranch dressing, or balsamic glaze.
In a Salad: Toss the roasted cauliflower into a salad with leafy greens, roasted vegetables, and your favorite dressing for a healthy, satisfying meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover roasted cauliflower in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 5-7 minutes to restore some crispiness.

Freezing

To freeze, place the roasted cauliflower on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze for about 1 hour. Once frozen, transfer the cauliflower to a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be stored for up to 3 months. Reheat by roasting at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes.

Reheating

To reheat, place the cauliflower back in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen cauliflower?

Fresh cauliflower is ideal for roasting, as it holds up better to the heat. If using frozen, be sure to thaw and pat the cauliflower dry to avoid excess moisture.

2. Can I use ghee instead of butter?

Yes, ghee is a great alternative to butter and will add a slightly different flavor, but it works perfectly for this recipe.

3. Can I use different seasonings?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other seasonings, such as cumin, chili powder, or turmeric, to change the flavor profile of the dish.

4. Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, use olive oil in place of butter and ensure that the seasoning doesn’t include dairy.

5. Should I pre-cook the cauliflower before roasting?

No need to pre-cook! Simply cut the cauliflower, season it, and roast it directly in the oven.

6. Can I roast cauliflower without oil?

You can roast cauliflower without oil, but the texture will be different—less crispy and more soft. The oil helps achieve that golden-brown exterior.

7. How can I make cauliflower crispy?

To get a crispier texture, make sure to spread the cauliflower in a single layer on the baking sheet, and flip it halfway through roasting.

8. Can I use this recipe for other vegetables?

Yes, this roasting method works well with many vegetables, such as Brussels sprouts, carrots, or broccoli.

9. How do I make roasted cauliflower spicy?

Add chili powder, cayenne pepper, or red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix for a spicy kick.

10. Can I grill the cauliflower instead of roasting it?

Yes, grilling cauliflower can give it a smoky flavor and crispy edges. Use a grill pan or direct the florets on the grill over medium heat for about 10-15 minutes.

Conclusion

This easy roasted cauliflower recipe is a flavorful, healthy side dish that will complement almost any meal. The simple ingredients and straightforward steps make it a go-to option for busy weeknights or special gatherings. Whether you’re enjoying it as a snack or pairing it with a hearty main dish, this roasted cauliflower will impress with its perfect balance of crispy, tender, and savory flavors.