Description
Garlic-parmesan roasted cauliflower delivers a savory side dish that elevates humble vegetables into a restaurant-quality experience. Crisp edges and golden-brown florets make this simple recipe irresistible for home cooks seeking maximum flavor with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Scale
- 3 tablespoons (45 ml) olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into florets
- ¼ cup (25 g) grated parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon (2.5 g) salt
- ½ teaspoon (1 g) black pepper
- ½ teaspoon (1 g) paprika (optional, for color)
- ½ teaspoon (1 g) Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon (15 g) fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preparation: Position the oven rack centrally and preheat to 425F (220C) for optimal roasting conditions.
- Surface Preparation: Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and facilitate easy cleanup.
- Floret Processing: Break cauliflower into uniform-sized pieces, ensuring consistent cooking and enhanced caramelization potential.
- Seasoning Fusion: In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly coat cauliflower florets with olive oil, then generously sprinkle minced garlic, salt, black pepper, smoky paprika, and Italian seasoning, tossing to create an even flavor distribution.
- Roasting Configuration: Spread seasoned florets in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, maintaining adequate spacing to promote crispy edges and prevent moisture accumulation.
- Cooking Process: Roast for 22-25 minutes, midway rotating the pan to guarantee uniform browning and prevent uneven heat exposure, watching for a rich golden-brown exterior and crisp texture.
- Finishing Touches: Immediately after removing from the oven, generously shower with freshly grated parmesan cheese, gently tossing to allow slight melting and complete flavor integration, then garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a vibrant visual and herbaceous complement.
Notes
- Ensure Even Sizing: Cut cauliflower florets uniformly to guarantee consistent roasting and prevent some pieces from burning while others remain undercooked.
- Control Moisture Level: Pat cauliflower completely dry before seasoning to achieve maximum crispiness and prevent steaming during roasting.
- Spacing Matters: Spread florets with significant gaps on the baking sheet, allowing hot air circulation for perfect golden-brown caramelization without soggy edges.
- Cheese Melting Technique: Add parmesan cheese immediately after roasting while cauliflower is piping hot to help cheese partially melt and create a delicious coating.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snacks, Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 5
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 200 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 5 mg