Description
This whole roasted cauliflower is crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with bold, savory spices. It’s a beautiful plant-based dish that works as a main or hearty side.
Ingredients
- 1 large cauliflower, leaves removed and stem trimmed
- 3 to 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked or sweet)
- ½ teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese or nutritional yeast (optional)
- Fresh parsley or mixed fresh herbs, finely chopped, for garnish
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a boil. Carefully add the whole cauliflower and parboil for 8–10 minutes, until just tender.
- Remove and drain the cauliflower thoroughly. Pat completely dry with paper towels.
- In a small bowl, mix olive oil, garlic, cumin, onion powder, paprika, chili flakes, salt, and pepper.
- Place the cauliflower on a baking sheet and brush the spiced oil all over, including the crevices.
- Roast uncovered for 35–45 minutes, basting once or twice, until golden and crisp.
- If using, sprinkle Parmesan or nutritional yeast on top and roast for another 5 minutes.
- Remove from oven, garnish with herbs, and serve hot with lemon wedges.
Notes
- Parboiling helps the cauliflower cook evenly and become tender inside.
- For extra crispiness, ensure the cauliflower is completely dry before roasting.
- Use nutritional yeast to keep it vegan.
- Great served with tahini sauce, yogurt sauce, or alongside grains or salads.
- You can prepare in advance by parboiling and seasoning a day ahead.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 cauliflower
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
