Whole Roasted Cauliflower is a simple yet impressive dish that turns an ordinary vegetable into a flavorful and stunning centerpiece. Roasted to perfection, the cauliflower develops a crispy, golden exterior while remaining tender on the inside. This dish is perfect for holidays, dinner parties, or even as a hearty side dish for family meals.
Ingredients
- 1 large head of cauliflower
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Prepare the Cauliflower
- Trim the outer leaves from the cauliflower and cut the stem flush with the base so the cauliflower sits flat. Be careful not to remove too much of the core to keep the head intact.
- Rinse the cauliflower and pat it dry with a towel.
Step 3: Make the Marinade
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper.
Step 4: Coat the Cauliflower
- Place the cauliflower head upside down (core side up) on the prepared baking sheet.
- Pour half of the marinade over the cauliflower, using a brush or your hands to ensure the marinade gets into the crevices.
- Flip the cauliflower right side up and pour the remaining marinade over the top, brushing evenly to coat the entire surface.
Step 5: Roast the Cauliflower
- Roast the cauliflower in the preheated oven for 45-60 minutes, depending on the size of the cauliflower. Check for doneness by piercing the center with a knife— it should be tender but not mushy.
- If the top begins to brown too quickly, cover the cauliflower loosely with foil to prevent burning.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Remove the cauliflower from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese (if using) for extra flavor.
- Serve the whole cauliflower as a centerpiece and slice into wedges for serving.
Cook Notes
- Doneness: The cauliflower is done when a knife inserted into the core goes through easily. Adjust the cooking time based on the size of the cauliflower.
- Crispy Top: If you want an extra-crispy top, turn the oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes of roasting. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
- Extra Flavor: For more depth of flavor, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper, turmeric, or chili powder to the marinade.
Variations
- Cheesy Cauliflower: Sprinkle shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese over the cauliflower during the last 10 minutes of roasting for a cheesy crust.
- Herb-Roasted Cauliflower: Add fresh or dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano to the marinade for a fragrant twist.
- Tahini Roasted Cauliflower: Replace the Dijon mustard with 2 tablespoons of tahini for a rich, nutty flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I prepare the cauliflower ahead of time?
Yes! You can prep the cauliflower and coat it with the marinade up to 24 hours in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature before roasting.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover roasted cauliflower in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to maintain its crispiness.
Can I use frozen cauliflower?
Frozen cauliflower won’t roast as well as fresh, but you can use it in a pinch. Just be sure to thaw and dry the cauliflower thoroughly before roasting.
What can I serve with roasted cauliflower?
Whole roasted cauliflower pairs well with roasted meats, grilled chicken, or as part of a vegetarian meal alongside grains like quinoa or couscous.
How do I make this recipe vegan?
This recipe is already vegan if you omit the Parmesan cheese. The marinade and cooking process are fully plant-based.
Classic Whole Roasted Cauliflower is a versatile, healthy, and delicious dish that’s sure to impress. With a beautifully crisp exterior and a tender, flavorful interior, this recipe can easily be adapted to suit any meal or occasion. Whether served as a side dish or the star of the table, roasted cauliflower is a nutritious and tasty way to enjoy this humble vegetable
