Description
Roasted Cauliflower with a Kick is a quick, healthy, and flavorful dish combining crispy caramelized cauliflower florets with a bold blend of smoky, spicy, and earthy spices. Perfect as a versatile side or a satisfying snack, it’s easily customizable in heat level and garnishes to suit any palate.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 medium head of fresh cauliflower, cut into florets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Optional Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice (for finishing)
- Cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes (to increase heat)
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan or nutritional yeast (for cheesy topping)
- Honey or maple syrup (to balance heat with sweetness)
- Toasted pine nuts or chopped almonds (for texture)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat for easy cleanup. Rinse the cauliflower and cut it into evenly sized florets to ensure uniform roasting.
- Toss with Oil and Spices: In a large mixing bowl, drizzle olive oil over the cauliflower florets. Add smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Toss thoroughly until each piece is coated evenly with the flavorful spice blend.
- Arrange and Roast: Spread the seasoned cauliflower in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, making sure not to overcrowd the pieces. Roast for 25 to 30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy on the edges with tender centers.
- Finish and Serve: Remove from the oven and, if desired, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top to add brightness. Serve warm for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Cut florets uniformly to promote even cooking and prevent burning.
- Olive oil helps the spices stick and creates a perfectly crisp exterior.
- Roast at a high temperature to achieve caramelization and a crunchy texture.
- Flip the cauliflower halfway through roasting to ensure even cooking.
- Taste the spice blend before tossing to adjust heat as needed.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to one month.
- Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes to retain crispness; avoid microwaving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg