Discover a delightful way to enjoy cauliflower with this easy oven-roasted recipe. The combination of garlic, paprika, and Parmesan cheese brings out the natural flavors of the cauliflower, resulting in a crispy and flavorful side dish. Perfect for any meal, this dish is both healthy and delicious.
Preparation Time
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- Fresh parsley, for garnishing
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare Baking Sheet:
- Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper.
- Season Cauliflower:
- In a large bowl, combine the cauliflower florets, olive oil, salt, black pepper, minced garlic, and paprika. Mix well to ensure the cauliflower is evenly coated.
- Bake Cauliflower:
- Spread the seasoned cauliflower florets in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes.
- Add Parmesan Cheese:
- Turn the florets to the other side, sprinkle with the grated Parmesan cheese, and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the cauliflower is tender and golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.
- Serve as a side dish with your favorite pasta.
- Enjoy as a snack with a dipping sauce like ranch or garlic aioli.
Cooking Tips
- Ensure the cauliflower florets are cut evenly to promote uniform cooking.
- For extra crispiness, broil the cauliflower for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.
- Adjust seasoning to taste by adding more garlic or paprika.
Nutritional Benefits
- Low in Calories: Cauliflower is low in calories and high in fiber, making it a great choice for a healthy diet.
- Rich in Vitamins C and K: Cauliflower supports immune function and bone health.
- Healthy Fats: Olive oil provides healthy monounsaturated fats, which are good for heart health.
Dietary Information
- Gluten-Free: Yes
- Vegetarian: Yes
- Vegan: No (contains Parmesan cheese, can be made vegan by omitting or using a vegan cheese substitute)
- Dairy-Free: No (contains Parmesan cheese, can be made dairy-free by omitting or using a dairy-free cheese substitute)
Storage
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven or air fryer to restore crispiness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple and quick to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Healthy and packed with flavor, making it a great addition to any meal.
- Versatile and customizable with your favorite spices and herbs.
Conclusion
Oven-roasted cauliflower with garlic and Parmesan is a delicious and healthy side dish that’s easy to prepare and full of flavor. Whether you’re serving it as a side for dinner or as a tasty snack, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Enjoy the crispy, savory goodness of roasted cauliflower in just 35 minutes!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Oven-Roasted Cauliflower with Garlic and Parmesan
- Can I use frozen cauliflower instead of fresh?
- Yes, you can use frozen cauliflower, but make sure to thaw and pat it dry before roasting to prevent excess moisture, which can make the cauliflower soggy instead of crispy.
- Can I make this recipe vegan?
- Yes, to make this recipe vegan, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or substitute it with a vegan cheese alternative.
- What other spices can I use instead of paprika?
- You can use smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, or even a curry powder for a different flavor profile.
- How do I store leftovers?
- Store any leftover roasted cauliflower in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to restore crispiness.
- Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
- You can prepare the cauliflower florets and toss them with the seasoning in advance, then store them in the refrigerator. Roast them just before serving for the best results.
- Is it possible to make this dish without oil?
- While the oil helps to achieve a crispy texture, you can reduce the amount of oil or use a cooking spray to lightly coat the cauliflower if you’re looking to reduce fat content.
- How do I make the cauliflower extra crispy?
- To make the cauliflower extra crispy, broil it for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. Make sure to keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
- What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese if I’m dairy-free?
- You can use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative or nutritional yeast, which provides a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
- Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
- Yes, you can add other vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or bell peppers. Just ensure they are cut to similar sizes for even cooking.
- Can I freeze the roasted cauliflower?
- While you can freeze roasted cauliflower, it may lose some of its crispiness upon reheating. It’s best enjoyed fresh or reheated from the refrigerator within a few days.