Description
Roasted cauliflower brings Mediterranean magic to your dinner table with its crispy edges and rich herb-infused flavor. Garlic, olive oil, and fresh parsley create a simple yet luxurious side dish that elevates any meal with Mediterranean charm.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1 medium cauliflower
Seasoning:
- Sea salt, for sprinkling
- Freshly ground black pepper, for sprinkling
Flavor Enhancers and Optional Toppings:
- Extra-virgin olive oil, for drizzling
- 1 lemon zest (optional)
- ¼ cup (60 milliliters) chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the oven by heating it to 425°F (218°C) and line a spacious baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Carefully deconstruct the entire cauliflower head into uniform, bite-sized florets using a sharp knife, ensuring each piece is roughly the same size for even roasting.
- Drizzle high-quality extra virgin olive oil generously over the florets, then season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, thoroughly coating each piece to enhance flavor and promote caramelization.
- Distribute the seasoned cauliflower evenly across the prepared baking sheet, creating a single layer that allows each floret to roast properly without overcrowding.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 25 to 35 minutes, rotating the sheet halfway through cooking to ensure uniform golden-brown edges and tender interior.
- Once roasted to perfection with crispy, caramelized edges, remove from the oven and optionally garnish with bright lemon zest, chopped fresh parsley, and finely grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor and visual appeal.
Notes
- Ensure cauliflower florets are roughly the same size for even roasting and consistent texture.
- Use a high-temperature oven to achieve golden-brown caramelization and enhance natural sweetness.
- Spread florets in a single layer without overcrowding to promote crispy edges and prevent steaming.
- Experiment with additional seasonings like garlic powder, smoked paprika, or za’atar for extra flavor complexity.
- Let roasted cauliflower rest for a few minutes after cooking to maintain optimal crispiness and temperature.
- Serve immediately as a versatile side dish or transform into a warm salad with fresh herbs and cheese.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 55 kcal
- Sugar: 2.5 g
- Sodium: 180 mg
- Fat: 3.5 g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 5 g
- Fiber: 2.5 g
- Protein: 2.5 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg