Whether you’re trying to create new options for meatless meal days, looking for a great new side dish for family and friends, or thinking of introducing something new to your holiday menu – whole roasted cauliflower is sure to impress!
If you think you’ve already had roasted cauliflower, then check out our easy ways to keep it tasting fresh and exciting. And cooking it couldn’t be easier!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 45-60 minutes
Total Time: 55-70 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 medium head of cauliflower
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp turmeric (optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 2 tbsp lemon juice (optional)
Instructions
Prep the cauliflower by removing the leaves and trimming the stem of the cauliflower so it sits flat. Be careful not to cut too much of the stem, as it needs to hold together while roasting. Rinse and pat dry.
In a small bowl, combine olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, cumin, and turmeric (if using). Rub this mixture all over the cauliflower, ensuring it’s well-coated.
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the cauliflower on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or in an oven-safe skillet. Roast for 45-60 minutes, depending on the size of the cauliflower, until golden and tender. You should be able to pierce it easily with a knife.
Remove from the oven and drizzle with lemon juice, if desired.
Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 4 servings):
Calories: 120 kcal; Fat: 9g; Carbohydrates: 10g; Fiber: 4g; Protein: 3g
This whole roasted cauliflower is a flavorful, nutritious dish that can either be served as a side or as the centerpiece of a plant-based meal. For a more unique flavor profile, you can try one of these rubs or marinades to take your roasted cauliflower to the next level:
Herb & Lemon Zest Rub
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme, finely chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Flavor profile: Bright, zesty, and aromatic with Mediterranean vibes.
Harissa & Honey Glaze
- 2 tbsp harissa paste
- 1 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt to taste
Flavor profile: Spicy and slightly sweet, with North African warmth.
Miso-Ginger Glaze
- 2 tbsp white or yellow miso paste
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp maple syrup or honey
Flavor profile: Savory, umami-rich with a tangy, Asian-inspired twist.
Tandoori Spice Rub
- 2 tbsp plain yogurt (or coconut yogurt for a vegan option)
- 1 tbsp tandoori masala spice blend
- 1 tsp turmeric
- 1 tsp garlic paste
- 1 tsp ginger paste
- Juice of half a lemon
- Salt to taste
Flavor profile: Smoky, earthy, and spicy with an Indian flair.
Pesto Rub
- 3 tbsp basil pesto (or any herb-based pesto)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp grated Parmesan (optional)
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
Flavor profile: Rich, herbaceous, and slightly nutty with an Italian influence.
Buffalo Cauliflower Marinade
- 1/4 cup buffalo sauce
- 2 tbsp melted butter (or vegan butter)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp cayenne (optional for extra heat)
Flavor profile: Spicy, tangy, and perfect if you love bold flavors.
Tahini-Lemon Sauce
- 2 tbsp tahini
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp maple syrup or honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Flavor profile: Creamy, nutty, and tangy, with a Middle Eastern twist.
These rubs and marinades can give your cauliflower a whole new flavor dimension, making it a versatile dish for any meal!
The post Whole Roasted Cauliflower 8 Ways appeared first on The 100 Year Lifestyle.
