Tracy Hilton here from Food and Meal, excited to share with you one of my favorite vegetable side dishes – perfectly roasted cauliflower!
As a busy mom trying to incorporate more veggies into family meals, I’m always on the lookout for tasty and nutritious recipes. When I discovered how incredibly delicious cauliflower gets when roasted, I knew I had to share this simple preparation with all of you.
I first tried roasted cauliflower years ago at a friend’s house and was wowed by the caramelized flavor and slight crispness at the edges of the florets. The cauliflower had transformed from the bland, mushy boiled vegetable I was used to into this incredible side dish I just couldn’t get enough of!
After that, I began working on my own version of roasted cauliflower at home. Now, it’s a regular on our dinner table – my kids actually request it! Roasting it to a golden brown really brings out cauliflower’s inherently sweet, nutty taste. Tossed with just a bit of olive oil, garlic, and spices, it makes for the perfect accompaniment to all kinds of main dishes.
The great thing about roasting cauliflower is just how quick and easy it is, with very little hands-on time. Simply chop up a head of cauliflower, coat with oil and seasonings, then throw it in the oven while you prepare the rest of the meal. In about half an hour, you’ll have the most delicious veggie side to complement anything from saucy pastas to seared pork chops.
Roasted Cauliflower Recipes
Roasted Cauliflower and Tahini
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 large head cauliflower cut into bite-size florets
- 1/2 tsp cumin seeds whole
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic sliced
- 1 tsp sweet paprika
- 1/2 tsp turmeric
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper optional
- 1/2 tsp fine sea salt
- 1/2 tsp ground pepper freshly
- 1 lemon halved
- 1/2 cup tahini
- 1 tbsp cilantro minced
- 3-4 tbsp ice water
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F.
- Toss the cauliflower, onions and garlic, with the olive oil, cumin seeds, turmeric and paprika, salt, pepper, and cayenne, if using.
- Spread the mixture in an even layer on a baking sheet.
- Roast, until the cauliflower is tender and its edges are nicely browned, 30-40 minutes. You can broil for 1-2 minutes if you want a more charred look.
- To make tahini dressing, mix tahini with juice of half a lemon, and add ice water to thin consistency. Add cilantro leaves, and spread on a serving dish.
- Place the roasted cauliflower on top of the tahini dressing, and squeeze juice of remaining half lemon on top. Best served hot.
Video
Notes
Nutrition
© Food And Meal
This website provides approximate nutrition information for convenience and as a courtesy only. Nutrition data is gathered primarily from the Spoonacular Database, whenever available, or otherwise other online calculators.
Alternative Method: Air Fryer Roasted Cauliflower
Preheating the air fryer is the first step to achieving perfectly crispy and golden cauliflower. Set the temperature to 375°F (190°C) and let it heat up for about 5 minutes. Meanwhile, prepare the cauliflower by cutting it into bite-sized florets and ensuring they are dry to the touch. Toss the cauliflower in a bowl with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper, ensuring each floret is evenly coated. Lightly grease the air fryer basket to prevent sticking and arrange the seasoned cauliflower in a single layer. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook in batches. Air fry the cauliflower at 375°F (190°C) for 15-18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking. Once done, the cauliflower should be golden brown and crispy on the outside while remaining tender on the inside. Transfer it to a serving platter and garnish with fresh herbs or grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor. Serve hot and enjoy the delightful crunch of air fryer roasted cauliflower.
Tips for making Roasted Cauliflower
Cooking Tips
The key is choosing fresh, tight florets of cauliflower – none of those grainy rice-like pieces from the stem. Give them a rough chop into similar sized pieces so they cook evenly. Now, for my secret step – soak them for 30 minutes in cold water before roasting. This helps them roast up incredibly tender, not tough.
Drain the cauliflower well and spread out on a sheet pan. For maximum flavor, I recommend tossing the florets with a little oil along with spices like cumin, paprika or curry powder before roasting. As they cook to a deep golden hue, my kitchen fills with the most mouthwatering aroma!
Roasting time can vary based on how large you cut the florets, so keep an eye on them. I poke a few pieces with a fork – when there’s just a hint of resistance but they’re still soft inside, they’re perfect.
Serving Suggestions
Roasted cauliflower makes a versatile and delicious side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses. Its crispy texture and savory flavor complement a wide range of dishes from different cuisines. For a hearty and satisfying meal, serve the roasted cauliflower alongside a comforting bowl of Tonkotsu Ramen or Shio Tantanmen, allowing the rich broth to contrast beautifully with the cauliflower’s crunchiness. Alternatively, pair it with a light and refreshing Kohlrabi Salad for a healthy and balanced meal. The roasted cauliflower also adds a flavorful touch to Vegetable Maki rolls, enhancing their taste and texture. For a fusion-inspired dish, serve the roasted cauliflower as a side to Schezwan Noodles, adding an extra layer of flavor and crunch to the spicy noodles. Whether you’re enjoying a cozy dinner at home or hosting a gathering with friends, roasted cauliflower is sure to be a crowd-pleaser, adding both taste and texture to your meal.
Frequently Asked Questions about Roasted Cauliflower
- Can I prepare roasted cauliflower in advance?Yes, you can roast cauliflower in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for a few minutes to regain its crispy texture.
- How do I prevent the cauliflower from becoming soggy? To prevent sogginess, make sure your cauliflower is dry before roasting, use an appropriate amount of oil, and avoid overcrowding the pan or air fryer basket.
- Can I freeze roasted cauliflower? Freezing roasted cauliflower isn’t recommended, as it can change the texture. However, you can freeze blanched cauliflower florets and roast them fresh when needed.
- Can I use frozen cauliflower for roasting? While fresh cauliflower is ideal for roasting, you can use frozen cauliflower if you thaw and pat it dry thoroughly before seasoning and roasting. Keep in mind that it may not become as crispy as fresh cauliflower.
- What can I do with leftover roasted cauliflower? Leftover roasted cauliflower is versatile. You can use it in salads, wraps, stir-fries, or even blend it into a creamy cauliflower soup. Just get creative!
Conclusion
I hope you’ve enjoyed this little foray into transforming a humble vegetable into a delicious, crave-worthy side dish as much as I have. There’s just something so satisfying about roasting cauliflower to sweet, caramelized perfection.
If you give this Roasted Cauliflower a try, I’d love to hear how it turns out! Post a photo on Instagram and tag @foodandmeal so I can see your delicious creations. Did you add any special seasonings or serving suggestions? I’m always looking for new ways to enjoy this versatile veggie.
And be sure to keep checking the Food and Meal blog for more healthy and delicious vegetable recipe inspiration. Roasting is such a great hands-off cooking method that really intensifies flavors. I’ll share more of my favorite easy veggie sides, along with tips for getting them perfectly tender and packed with flavor every time.
I'm Tracy F Hilton, a devoted culinary professional shaped by a mix of natural aptitude and refined skills from a top culinary school. In the dynamic kitchen environment, I'm a catalyst for seamless operations and timely, high-quality dish preparation. My culinary creations are a blend of art and skill, offering visually and gustatorily delightful experiences. A learner at heart, I'm continuously honing my craft, embracing new techniques, and culinary innovations. My positive, collaborative nature is amplified in fast-paced settings, showcasing my commitment to team efficiency and guest satisfaction. Each dish I present is a meticulous blend of tradition and innovation, promising an unforgettable dining experience that marries taste, aroma, and aesthetic appeal in perfect harmony. Join me on a gastronomic journey where each bite encapsulates a rich, evolving narrative of flavors and culinary artistry.