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-inch 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)

Jump to Recipe

This Easy Roasted Cauliflower recipe is a simple yet flavorful side dish that brings out the natural sweetness of cauliflower while enhancing it with the savory richness of olive oil, butter, and seasonings. Roasting cauliflower in the oven brings out its nutty, caramelized flavor, creating a crispy, golden exterior and a tender, juicy interior. Whether you’re serving it alongside a hearty meat dish, a vegetarian meal, or just want a delicious, healthy snack, this recipe is a go-to that’s quick and easy to make. With just a few ingredients, you can elevate your cauliflower to a whole new level, making it a hit at any dinner table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy

This roasted cauliflower takes only 10 minutes of prep and 20 minutes of cook time, making it a perfect side dish for busy weeknights.

2. Simple Ingredients

With just cauliflower, olive oil, butter, and a few spices, you can create a flavorful side dish that doesn’t require any complicated ingredients.

3. Healthy and Flavorful

Cauliflower is packed with nutrients like fiber and vitamin C, making this dish both a healthy and satisfying addition to your meal.

4. Versatile

You can adjust the seasoning to suit your taste, whether you prefer it with extra garlic, a hint of spice, or even a squeeze of lemon for freshness.

5. Crispy, Tender Texture

Roasting the cauliflower results in the perfect balance of crispy edges and tender florets, offering an irresistible texture with each bite.

Ingredients

Medium cauliflower, sliced into small florets or ½” thick steaks
Olive oil
Unsalted butter, melted
Garlic powder
Salt (to taste)
Ground paprika
Ground black pepper (to taste)

Variations

Add Herbs: Fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley can be added for an extra layer of flavor.
Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in some chili flakes or cayenne pepper for a little heat.
Lemon Zest: Add a bit of lemon zest or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice after roasting to brighten the flavor.
Cheesy Version: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the cauliflower for a cheesy finish during the last few minutes of roasting.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Prepare the Cauliflower

Wash the cauliflower and remove the leaves. Slice it into small florets or cut it into ½” thick steaks, depending on your preference.

Step 3: Season the Cauliflower

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

Step 4: Roast the Cauliflower

Spread the seasoned cauliflower evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cauliflower is golden brown and crispy on the edges, flipping halfway through for even roasting.

Step 5: Serve

Once roasted, remove the cauliflower from the oven and transfer it to a serving dish. Garnish with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips for Making the Recipe

Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Ensure the cauliflower florets are spread out in a single layer. Overcrowding will prevent them from getting crispy.
Flip Halfway Through: Turning the cauliflower halfway through the roasting process ensures an even golden-brown color and crispiness on all sides.
Watch Closely Near the End: Roasting times may vary based on your oven and the size of the cauliflower pieces. Keep an eye on them towards the end to prevent burning.

How to Serve

Roasted cauliflower is an incredibly versatile side dish that pairs well with almost anything. Serve it with grilled meats, roasted chicken, pasta dishes, or even as a topping for a salad. It also works wonderfully as part of a vegan or vegetarian meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover roasted cauliflower in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

For longer storage, you can freeze roasted cauliflower. Spread it out in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze for a few hours, then transfer to a freezer bag or container for up to 3 months.

Reheating

Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore the crispiness. You can also reheat in the microwave, though the texture may be softer.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen cauliflower?

While fresh cauliflower gives the best results for roasting, you can use frozen cauliflower. Just make sure to thaw and pat it dry before roasting to avoid excess moisture.

2. Can I make this recipe without butter?

Yes, you can make this recipe using only olive oil for a dairy-free version.

3. Can I add cheese to the cauliflower?

Yes, you can sprinkle shredded cheese such as Parmesan or cheddar over the cauliflower during the last few minutes of roasting for a cheesy flavor.

4. How do I get the cauliflower crispy?

Ensure that the cauliflower pieces are evenly coated in oil and butter, and make sure they’re spread out on the baking sheet without overlapping. This allows for better caramelization and crispiness.

5. Can I use other spices?

Absolutely! You can experiment with different spices like cumin, turmeric, or curry powder for a unique flavor profile.

6. Can I use this recipe for cauliflower steaks instead of florets?

Yes, you can slice the cauliflower into ½” thick steaks and roast them just like the florets, adjusting the cooking time slightly if needed.

7. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cauliflower and season it in advance, then refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before roasting.

8. What temperature should I roast cauliflower at?

Roast the cauliflower at 400°F (200°C) for the perfect balance of crispy edges and tender florets.

9. How can I add more flavor to roasted cauliflower?

You can add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, fresh herbs, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze after roasting to enhance the flavor even more.

10. Can I add nuts or seeds to the cauliflower?

Yes, you can add toasted pine nuts, sunflower seeds, or slivered almonds to the roasted cauliflower for an extra crunch.

Conclusion

This Easy Roasted Cauliflower recipe is a fantastic, simple side dish that brings out the best of this healthy vegetable. With a perfect blend of olive oil, butter, and seasoning, the cauliflower becomes wonderfully crisp and flavorful, making it a hit for any meal. It’s quick to prepare, highly versatile, and an excellent addition to your cooking repertoire. Whether you’re a cauliflower fan or trying it for the first time, this recipe is sure to please!