This Oven-Roasted Cauliflower is a delicious and easy side dish that’s packed with flavor. The combination of garlic, paprika, and Parmesan cheese enhances the natural taste of the cauliflower, creating a crispy, golden-brown finish. It’s a versatile dish that pairs well with any meal and can be customized to your liking.
Preparation Time:
- Prep time: 5 minutes
- Cook time: 30 minutes
- Total time: 35 minutes
Ingredients:
- Cauliflower – 1 large head, cut into florets
- Extra virgin olive oil – 2 tablespoons
- Salt and black pepper – to taste
- Minced garlic – 1 tablespoon
- Paprika – 1 teaspoon
- Parmesan cheese – 1/2 cup, grated
- Fresh parsley – for garnishing
Directions:
- Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). - Prepare the Baking Sheet:
Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper. - Season the Cauliflower:
In a large bowl, combine the cauliflower florets, olive oil, salt, black pepper, minced garlic, and paprika. Toss the cauliflower to ensure it is evenly coated with the seasoning. - Bake the 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:
After 15 minutes, turn the cauliflower florets over, sprinkle them with the grated Parmesan cheese, and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender and golden brown. - Garnish and Serve:
Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm.
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:
- Even Cooking: Cut the cauliflower florets evenly to ensure they cook uniformly.
- Extra Crispiness: For extra crispiness, broil the cauliflower for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.
- Adjust Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the seasoning by adding more garlic or paprika for an extra kick.
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: Cauliflower provides essential vitamins C and K, which support immune function and bone health.
- Healthy Fats: Olive oil adds heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, promoting overall health.
Dietary Information:
- Gluten-Free: Yes
- Vegetarian: Yes
- Vegan: No (contains Parmesan cheese, but can be made vegan by using a vegan cheese substitute)
- Dairy-Free: No (contains Parmesan cheese, but can be made dairy-free with a dairy-free cheese substitute)
Storage:
- Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven or air fryer to restore crispiness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Quick and Simple: With minimal prep time, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights.
- Healthy and Flavorful: Packed with flavor and nutrients, it’s a delicious addition to any meal.
- Customizable: Easily adjust the seasoning and ingredients to suit your taste preferences.
Conclusion
This Oven-Roasted Cauliflower with Garlic and Parmesan is a simple yet flavorful side dish that’s both healthy and satisfying. The combination of garlic, paprika, and Parmesan cheese creates a crispy, golden texture that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re serving it as a side for dinner or enjoying