Description

This Crispy Oven-Roasted Cauliflower recipe transforms a simple vegetable into a delicious, golden-brown snack or side dish that’s full of flavor and texture. With just a few pantry staples like olive oil, garlic powder, and paprika, you can make cauliflower taste incredible. Roasting at a high temperature ensures that the florets become crispy on the outside while remaining tender on the inside. Whether you’re serving it as a healthy side dish or a stand-alone snack, this roasted cauliflower is sure to be a hit!

Ingredients

• 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika (optional, for a smoky flavor)
• ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
• Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)

Preparation Method

Preheat the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with oil to prevent the cauliflower from sticking.
Prepare the Cauliflower:

Wash and dry the cauliflower head thoroughly. Cut the cauliflower into evenly sized florets to ensure even roasting. Pat the florets dry with a towel to remove excess moisture—this helps achieve a crispier result.
Season the Cauliflower:

In a large mixing bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with the olive oil, garlic powder, paprika (if using), salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes (if you like a little heat). Make sure each floret is evenly coated with the seasoning.
Arrange on the Baking Sheet:

Spread the seasoned cauliflower florets in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can prevent the cauliflower from roasting evenly and becoming crispy.
Roast in the Oven:

Roast the cauliflower in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, flipping the florets halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning. The cauliflower should be golden-brown and crispy on the edges when done.
Garnish and Serve:

Remove the roasted cauliflower from the oven and let it cool for a minute. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color and added freshness. Serve warm.

Tips and Conclusion

Get creative with seasonings: While garlic powder and paprika add great flavor, you can experiment with other spices like curry powder, cumin, or chili powder to give the cauliflower a unique twist.
Achieve extra crispiness: For even crispier cauliflower, you can toss the florets in a small amount of cornstarch or arrowroot powder before adding the oil and seasonings.
Add a cheesy finish: After roasting, sprinkle the cauliflower with grated Parmesan or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor boost.
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat and maintain the crispiness, place the cauliflower back in a hot oven for a few minutes.

This Crispy Oven-Roasted Cauliflower is the perfect blend of simplicity and flavor, offering a crunchy, savory side dish that’s easy to make and sure to impress. With its golden-brown edges and tender center, it’s a great way to elevate humble cauliflower into a dish that even picky eaters will love. Try this recipe for a healthy snack or as a versatile side for your next meal, and enjoy every bite of crispy, roasted goodness!