Garlic-Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower: A Simple and Healthy Side Dish Ready in 30 Minutes
Garlic-Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower is a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a side or even as a snack. Roasting cauliflower brings out its natural sweetness while adding a delightful crunch. With the bold flavors of garlic and Parmesan, this dish is sure to become a favorite at your dinner table. Plus, it’s quick to make, taking just about 30 minutes from start to finish!
Why you’ll love it
There are many reasons to love Garlic-Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower. First, it’s incredibly easy to make! You can whip it up in just half an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Second, it’s healthy! Cauliflower is packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber, making this dish a nutritious choice. Lastly, the combination of garlic, Parmesan, and lemon juice adds amazing flavor that even kids will enjoy. It’s a great way to sneak more veggies into your diet!
Ingredients
- 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into florets (about 8 cups)
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1½ teaspoons paprika
- ¾ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon cracked black pepper
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 to 3 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- Juice of ½ lemon
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley
Substitutions & key variations
If you don’t have some of the ingredients, you can easily make substitutions. For instance, you can use melted butter instead of olive oil for extra richness. If you’re not a fan of Parmesan, feel free to try nutritional yeast for a vegan alternative. You can also mix in other spices or herbs, like Italian seasoning or chili flakes, to create different flavor profiles.
Step-by-step
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Place a large rimmed baking sheet on the center rack of the oven and preheat the oven to 450ºF (232ºC).
Step 2: Prepare the Cauliflower
Cut the cauliflower into small florets and place them in a large bowl.
Step 3: Season the Cauliflower
Add the olive oil, paprika, salt, and black pepper to the bowl. Toss everything together until the florets are evenly coated.
Step 4: Roast the Cauliflower
Carefully empty the seasoned cauliflower onto the preheated baking sheet. Make sure to arrange the florets in a single layer to avoid overcrowding. Roast in the oven for 20 to 25 minutes. Stir them once halfway through until they are lightly charred and tender.
Step 5: Add Garlic and Parmesan
After roasting, sprinkle the minced garlic and grated Parmesan cheese over the cauliflower. Return the baking sheet to the oven for an additional 5 minutes.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Once done, spritz lemon juice over the roasted cauliflower and garnish with fresh parsley. Toss everything together lightly and it’s ready to serve!
Success tips
To get the best texture and flavor, make sure your oven is preheated properly before you place the cauliflower inside. Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet; this ensures each floret gets enough heat for roasting. A common mistake is not tossing the cauliflower halfway through roasting, which helps achieve even cooking.
How to serve
Garlic-Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower is incredibly versatile. You can serve it as a side dish alongside grilled meats, fish, or even as part of a vegetarian meal. It can also be used in salads, grain bowls, or simply enjoyed on its own as a healthy snack.
Storage & reheating
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat them in the oven at 350ºF (175ºC) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. This will help retain their crispy texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of cauliflower should I use?
You can use any type of cauliflower—white, purple, or even orange. All will work well in this recipe.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
For the best texture, it’s best enjoyed fresh. However, you can prepare the cauliflower and season it a few hours in advance and roast it right before serving.
How do I know when the cauliflower is done?
The cauliflower should be tender when pierced with a fork and have a nice golden brown color when it’s ready.
Can I use frozen cauliflower?
Fresh cauliflower works best, but if you only have frozen cauliflower, make sure to thaw it and pat it dry to avoid extra moisture before roasting.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, Garlic-Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.
Nutrition notes / equivalents
Cauliflower is low in calories but high in dietary fiber, vitamins C, K, and B6, and folate. This makes it a fantastic choice for a healthy side dish.
Conclusion
Garlic-Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower is a simple yet flavorful dish that can easily become a favorite. With its healthy ingredients and easy preparation, it’s perfect for any meal. Give it a try and see how delicious and satisfying roasted cauliflower can be!
If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to check out other delicious and healthy recipes to inspire your cooking journey!
Links to related recipes
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- Garlic Mashed Potatoes
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- Spicy Roasted Broccoli
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