This roasted cauliflower recipe brings out the natural sweetness of the vegetable, complemented by the richness of olive oil, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. A sprinkle of mozzarella adds a melty, cheesy topping, making this dish an irresistible side for any meal. With its crispy edges and tender center, this Parmesan roasted cauliflower is the perfect healthy and flavorful option. Whether you’re looking to jazz up your vegetable game or impress guests with a simple yet elegant dish, this recipe is sure to be a hit!
Ingredients:
- 1 medium head of cauliflower, cored and cut into florets
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- ½ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- 2 garlic cloves, finely minced
- ½ tsp fine sea salt
- ½ tsp ground paprika
- ¼ tsp ground black pepper
- 1 cup low-moisture part-skim mozzarella cheese, shredded (optional)
- Parsley, finely chopped for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven: Set the oven to 425°F (220°C). Position a rack in the center of the oven and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Prepare the cauliflower: Remove the stem from the cauliflower by slicing it in half or using a paring knife to cut out the stem from the bottom. Cut the cauliflower into evenly sized florets. For larger florets, slice them in half to create flat cauliflower “steaks” that will roast evenly and make it easier to top with cheese after flipping. Ensure uniform thickness for even cooking.
- Season the cauliflower: In a large mixing bowl, place the cauliflower florets. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt, paprika, and black pepper. Add the minced garlic and ¼ cup of Parmesan cheese. Toss everything together until the cauliflower is well coated with the oil and seasonings.
- Arrange and roast: Spread the cauliflower evenly on the prepared baking sheet, cut-side down. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until the first side is golden brown.
- Add cheese and finish roasting: Flip the florets over, then sprinkle with the remaining Parmesan cheese. If you’re using mozzarella, add it at this stage. Continue roasting for another 6-10 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the cauliflower is fork-tender.
- Serve: Once done, remove the cauliflower from the oven. Serve immediately, garnished with freshly chopped parsley if desired. Be sure to include any crispy, cheesy bits left on the pan, as they are delicious!
Cooking Tips:
- Uniform Size: Try to cut the cauliflower into similar-sized pieces to ensure even cooking. Larger pieces may take longer to roast.
- Cheese Options: Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère, cheddar, or even goat cheese for a different flavor profile.
- Roasting Time: The exact roasting time may vary based on the size of your cauliflower pieces and your oven. Start checking for doneness after the first 15 minutes and adjust as needed.
- Garlic Tip: For an extra garlic kick, you can toss whole garlic cloves with the cauliflower, letting them roast alongside the florets.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Rich in Vitamins: Cauliflower is packed with vitamins C and K, which are essential for immune health and bone strength.
- High in Fiber: This dish is a great source of fiber, aiding digestion and promoting a healthy gut.
- Antioxidants: The olive oil and garlic provide antioxidants that help reduce inflammation and support overall health.
- Low-Carb Option: This roasted cauliflower makes for a low-carb, keto-friendly side dish that’s hearty enough to satisfy without the carbs.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Flavorful: The combination of garlic, paprika, and Parmesan brings out the best in roasted cauliflower, making it flavorful and savory with every bite.
- Healthy: This dish offers all the goodness of vegetables while feeling indulgent with the addition of cheese.
- Quick & Easy: Simple to prepare and ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for a busy weeknight meal or an elegant side dish for a dinner party.
- Versatile: While perfect as a side, this roasted cauliflower can also be served as a main dish alongside a salad for a light, healthy dinner.
Dietary Information:
- Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
- Vegetarian: This dish is completely vegetarian-friendly. For a vegan version, skip the cheese or use plant-based cheese alternatives.
- Low-Carb: With cauliflower as the main ingredient, this dish is low in carbohydrates and ideal for those following a keto or low-carb diet.
Why This Recipe Works:
- High Heat Roasting: Roasting the cauliflower at 425°F helps to caramelize the edges while keeping the insides tender, enhancing the natural sweetness of the vegetable.
- Cheese Melts Perfectly: The combination of Parmesan and mozzarella creates a golden, bubbly topping that adds richness to the roasted cauliflower.
- Simple Seasoning: The balance of paprika, garlic, and Parmesan complements the mild flavor of the cauliflower without overpowering it.
Conclusion:
This Roasted Parmesan Cauliflower with Mozzarella is a winning recipe, combining the natural nuttiness of cauliflower with the savory richness of cheese and garlic. It’s easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and provides a healthy option for any meal. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or serving a crowd, this dish will be a surefire favorite. So give it a try today and enjoy a comforting, cheesy side that’s both nutritious and delicious!