Hey y’all! If you’re looking for a new crave-worthy veggie side, you’re in the right spot. This Easy Roasted Cauliflower Recipe transforms humble cauliflower into something so golden, crispy and packed with flavor that your whole family will be reaching for seconds. Whether you’re prepping a weeknight dinner or jazzing up a holiday table, this dish is a breeze and always a hit. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Easy Roasted Cauliflower Recipe
- Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy nights or easy entertaining.
- Requires only five pantry-friendly ingredients — super budget-friendly.
- The irresistible crispy texture and savory seasoning never fail to satisfy.
- It’s gluten free, vegan, and low carb, making it versatile for any diet.
- Leftovers are delicious in salads, wraps, or grain bowls the next day!
Ingredients for Easy Roasted Cauliflower Recipe
- 1 large head cauliflower (about 2 lbs), cut into florets
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Directions: Easy Roasted Cauliflower Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Cauliflower
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Rinse the cauliflower and pat it dry, then cut it into bite-size florets for even roasting.
Step 2: Season the Cauliflower
In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Make sure every piece is well coated for maximum flavor.
Step 3: Arrange & Roast
Spread the seasoned florets in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the edges are crispy and golden brown, and the centers are tender.
Step 4: Serve & Enjoy
Remove from the oven and serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon if desired.
Notes for Success – Easy Roasted Cauliflower Recipe
- Cut the florets into similar sizes so they roast evenly.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan—spread them out to get that perfect crisp! For more tips, check out this guide from Bon Appétit.
- Try adding a pinch of chili flakes for a bit of kick.
Easy Roasted Cauliflower Recipe Variations
- Lemon Parmesan: Toss hot cauliflower with 2 tablespoons grated parmesan and zest of 1 lemon.
- Curry Spice: Add 1 teaspoon curry powder with the seasonings.
- Herbed: Mix in 2 tablespoons chopped fresh herbs, like thyme or rosemary, before roasting.
Equipment Needed for Easy Roasted Cauliflower Recipe
- Large baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Large mixing bowl
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
Storage Instructions for Roasted Cauliflower
Let leftovers cool, then transfer to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in a 400°F (204°C) oven for 8-10 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid freezing, as texture may suffer.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
- Serve alongside grilled salmon, roast chicken, or as part of a vegetarian grain bowl.
- Pair with a fresh green salad and a bright lemon vinaigrette.
- Try it dipped in a creamy tahini sauce or crunchy romesco (get the recipe here).
Easy Roasted Cauliflower Recipe Pro Tips
- Create even more crispy bits by roasting on a preheated pan; learn more at Serious Eats.
- For extra flavor, finish with a drizzle of good olive oil or a sprinkle of finishing salt just before serving.
- Make it a meal by adding chickpeas or sliced bell peppers to roast alongside.
FAQ: Easy Roasted Cauliflower Recipe
- Can I use frozen cauliflower?
- Yes! Thaw and dry the florets well before seasoning and roasting. They may need a few extra minutes in the oven.
- Why isn’t my cauliflower crispy?
- Moisture is the culprit—ensure florets are dry before roasting and don’t overcrowd the baking sheet.
- Is roasted cauliflower healthy?
- Absolutely! Cauliflower is packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants. For detailed nutrition info, visit the Healthline cauliflower guide.
Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cook Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Serves: 4
Ingredients
- 1 large head cauliflower, cut into florets
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- 1 tablespoon grated parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
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1Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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2In a large bowl, toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
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3Spread the coated cauliflower in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
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4Roast in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the cauliflower is golden brown and crispy on the edges.
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5Remove from oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley and grated parmesan cheese, if desired, before serving.
Approximate Information for One Serving
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
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