Ah, cauliflower—often the underdog of the vegetable world, but when roasted to crispy perfection, it transforms into a crunchy, savory delight that could rival the best potato chips. I remember stumbling upon this recipe on a lazy Sunday afternoon, hoping to spice up my usual dinner routine, and wow, it was like discovering a hidden gem in the pantry. The aroma alone is enough to make you forget about any recent culinary mishaps—trust me, I’ve had a few!
Steps
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Slice a medium cauliflower into 1/2-inch thick steaks and break these into bite-sized pieces.
- Place the cauliflower pieces in the center of the baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil and melted butter, and toss to coat evenly.
- In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, salt, paprika, and black pepper for the seasoning.
- Sprinkle the seasoning mixture over the cauliflower and toss again to ensure even coating.
- Spread the seasoned cauliflower in a single layer on the baking sheet.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender and golden brown at the edges, adjusting time based on piece size.
- For a cheesy twist, add 1/2 cup of shredded parmesan cheese during the last 5 minutes of baking.
Ingredients
- 1 medium cauliflower, cut into small florets or 1/2-inch thick steaks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon ground paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper, or to taste
Nutritional Values
Calories: 600 kcal | Carbs: 30 g | Protein: 12 g | Fat: 54 g | Saturated Fat: 18 g | Trans Fat: 6 g | Cholesterol: 60 mg | Sodium: 1338 mg | Potassium: 1764 mg | Fiber: 12 g | Sugar: 12 g | Vitamin A: 948 IU | Vitamin C: 276 mg | Calcium: 138 mg | Iron: 6 mg
FAQ
- Can I add cheese to roasted cauliflower?
- Absolutely! Adding cheese can enhance the flavor of roasted cauliflower. Simply sprinkle 1/2 cup of shredded parmesan cheese over the cauliflower during the last 5 minutes of baking for a delicious parmesan twist.
- How do I slice cauliflower into steaks for roasting?
- To create cauliflower steaks, cut the cauliflower head into 4-5 large wedges. Then, slice each wedge into even 1/2″ thick steaks. These pieces can be cooked whole or broken into bite-sized pieces, which caramelize beautifully when roasted.
- How long should I bake cauliflower in the oven?
- The baking time depends on the size of the cauliflower pieces. Smaller pieces typically require 15-20 minutes, while larger florets may need 20-25 minutes until they are golden and caramelized.
- Can I prepare roasted cauliflower in advance?
- Yes, you can! Pre-chop the cauliflower a few days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Add the seasoning just before roasting. Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven, stovetop, or air fryer.
- What are some alternative cooking methods for cauliflower besides oven roasting?
- An air fryer is a great alternative. Simply toss the cauliflower with 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil and air fry at 375°F for 10-15 minutes, flipping every 5 minutes, until it reaches the desired tenderness and color.
Tips
- Customize Seasonings: Feel free to experiment with different seasonings to suit your taste. Aside from the essentials like salt and pepper, try adding garlic powder or paprika for extra flavor. You might also consider a sprinkle of shredded parmesan during the last 5 minutes of baking for a cheesy twist.
- Slice Evenly: For the best caramelization and even cooking, slice the cauliflower into uniform pieces, whether they are traditional florets or flat steaks. This ensures each piece cooks at the same rate and achieves a consistent texture.
- Air Fryer Option: If you prefer using an air fryer, skip the butter and use just olive oil. Cook the cauliflower at 375°F for 10-15 minutes, flipping every 5 minutes, until it turns golden and tender.
- Prepare in Advance: Save time by pre-chopping the cauliflower a few days ahead. Store it in the refrigerator, and when you’re ready to cook, simply season and roast. This makes meal prep more efficient and convenient.
Equipment
- Air Fryer – If you prefer using the air fryer method for cooking the cauliflower.
- Rimmed Baking Sheet – Essential for oven roasting to ensure even cooking and prevent spills.
- Parchment Paper – Useful for lining the baking sheet to make cleanup easier.
