This crispy Parmesan roasted cauliflower is a tasty side dish that everyone will love. It’s simple to make and brings out a lovely flavor that makes veggies exciting!
I secretly wish I could eat it for every meal. Who knew a vegetable could be this good? Just toss it with some olive oil, sprinkle on cheese, and roast until golden. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cauliflower: This is the star of the dish! Fresh cauliflower gives the best texture. You can substitute with broccoli if you prefer, but remember, the cooking time may vary slightly.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is my go-to for flavor. If you want a different taste, avocado oil or melted coconut oil can work well too.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds that lovely cheesy crust. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast can provide a similar cheesy flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is great for flavor. Garlic powder can be used in a pinch, just use about 1/2 teaspoon instead.
Spices: If you enjoy a bit of heat, you can add cayenne pepper instead of chili flakes. Feel free to mix different spices like Italian seasoning to shake things up!
How Can I Ensure My Cauliflower Gets Crispy?
Getting that perfect crispiness is all about preparation. Here’s how:
- Make sure your cauliflower is cut into uniform pieces. This helps them cook evenly.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Give the florets space so the hot air can circulate around them and roast rather than steam.
- Flipping halfway through is key. It helps them brown on both sides and prevents sogginess.
- If your oven has a convection setting, use it! It circulates air and promotes browning.
Follow these steps, and you’ll have perfectly crispy roasted cauliflower every time!
Crispy Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika or chili flakes for extra flavor
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 30 minutes of cooking time. So, in about 40 minutes, you’ll have a delicious and crispy side dish ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature will help the cauliflower get crispy! Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or give it a light grease to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Cauliflower:
In a large mixing bowl, take your cauliflower florets and add the olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until the cauliflower is well-coated with the oil and seasonings. This is what gives it great flavor!
3. Add the Cheese:
Next, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the cauliflower mixture. Gently toss again to make sure each floret gets that cheesy goodness. You want every bite to be flavorful!
4. Arrange and Roast:
Spread the cauliflower florets in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure you don’t overcrowd the pan; this helps them roast instead of steam. Now, pop the baking sheet into the preheated oven!
5. Flip and Finish:
After about 15 minutes, take the oven tray out and flip the cauliflower to ensure even roasting. Return it to the oven and roast for another 10-15 minutes until the florets are golden brown and crispy at the edges. If you like, sprinkle some smoked paprika or chili flakes on top right before it finishes roasting for a little kick!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, carefully remove the tray from the oven. Transfer the crispy Parmesan roasted cauliflower to a serving plate and serve right away while it’s still hot and crispy. Enjoy this healthy and tasty dish as a side or a standout snack!
Can I Use Frozen Cauliflower for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen cauliflower! However, it’s best to thaw it first and drain any excess moisture to prevent steaming instead of roasting. Pat it dry before mixing with the oil and seasonings.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
To make it vegan, you can substitute Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast, which provides a cheesy flavor without any dairy. Just sprinkle it over the cauliflower after coating with oil and seasonings!
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! Other vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or Brussels sprouts can be added. Keep in mind that different vegetables may have varying cooking times, so adjust as needed to ensure everything cooks evenly.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them back in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes to help restore their crispiness!
