Ingredients
- 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
- 8 oz mushrooms (button, cremini, or your choice), sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme)
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for added flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
Cut the cauliflower into bite-sized florets and slice the mushrooms. Place them in a large mixing bowl.
Step 3: Season the Vegetables
Add the minced garlic, olive oil, thyme, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper to the bowl with the vegetables. Toss everything together until the cauliflower and mushrooms are evenly coated with the oil and seasonings.
Step 4: Roast the Vegetables
Spread the cauliflower and mushrooms in an even layer on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they are not overcrowded to allow for proper roasting.
Roast the vegetables in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, tossing halfway through, until the cauliflower is golden brown and the mushrooms are tender and caramelized.
Step 5: Add Lemon Juice (Optional)
Once the vegetables are roasted, remove the baking sheet from the oven and drizzle with lemon juice for a bright, fresh finish. Toss the vegetables gently to combine.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Transfer the roasted cauliflower and mushrooms to a serving dish. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor, if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Notes
- Mushrooms: You can use any type of mushrooms, but cremini or button mushrooms work best for roasting due to their meaty texture.
- Cauliflower: Make sure the cauliflower florets are similar in size for even roasting.
- Lemon Juice: Adding a squeeze of lemon juice at the end brightens the dish and balances the richness of the roasted vegetables, but it’s optional.
Variations
1. Spicy Roasted Cauliflower and Mushrooms
Add ½ teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix for a spicy kick.
2. Cheesy Roasted Cauliflower and Mushrooms
Sprinkle ½ cup of Parmesan cheese or shredded cheddar over the vegetables in the last 5 minutes of roasting for a cheesy, golden crust.
3. Balsamic Roasted Cauliflower and Mushrooms
Toss the roasted vegetables with 1-2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar during the last 5 minutes of roasting for a tangy, sweet glaze.
4. Herb-Roasted Cauliflower and Mushrooms
Switch up the herbs by adding rosemary, oregano, or basil to the seasoning mix for an herbaceous twist.
Keto Version and Low-Carb Adjustments
This dish is naturally keto-friendly and low-carb, making it a great side for anyone following a keto diet. To enhance the fat content, drizzle the vegetables with extra virgin olive oil or top with melted butter before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can roast the cauliflower and mushrooms ahead of time and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Q: Can I use frozen cauliflower and mushrooms?
Fresh vegetables work best for roasting, but you can use frozen cauliflower and mushrooms. Be sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture before roasting, as frozen vegetables can release water and affect the texture.
Q: Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! Broccoli, Brussels sprouts, zucchini, or bell peppers make great additions to this dish. Just adjust the cooking time based on the vegetable’s size and texture.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
This Garlic Roasted Cauliflower and Mushrooms is a simple yet delicious side dish that’s packed with flavor. The caramelized garlic and herbs elevate the earthy flavors of the cauliflower and mushrooms, making it a perfect pairing for almost any main course. Whether you’re serving it with a weeknight meal or at a special gathering, this dish is sure to be a hit!
