Description
Crispy parmesan roasted cauliflower becomes a delightful side dish that elevates simple ingredients into a gourmet experience. Garlic and herbs complement the golden, cheesy florets, creating a mouthwatering accompaniment you’ll crave at every meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 medium head cauliflower (cut into bite-sized florets)
- ½ cup (120 ml) Parmesan cheese (grated)
- ¼ cup (30 g) breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 3 tbsps (45 ml) olive oil
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- ½ tsp salt (or to taste)
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- chopped parsley (for garnish)
- lemon wedges (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheating: Ignite the oven to 425F (220C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly oil the surface to prevent adhesion.
- Preparation: Deconstruct cauliflower into uniform florets, massaging each piece with olive oil to create a glossy, even coating that promises optimal roasting.
- Seasoning: Generously dust the oiled florets with garlic powder, smoky paprika, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper, then tumble gently to distribute seasonings comprehensively.
- Topping Application: Create a crispy crown by blending Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs, then delicately sprinkle the mixture over cauliflower, ensuring a light, even coverage.
- Roasting Process: Strategically arrange florets on the prepared sheet in a single, spacious layer to promote caramelization and prevent steaming. Roast for 25-30 minutes, rotating midway to achieve a golden, crisp exterior with perfectly developed edges.
- Finishing Touches: Extract from the oven once florets display a rich, caramelized surface. Optionally, enhance with a fresh parsley garnish and a zesty lemon juice accent to elevate the dish’s sensory experience.
Notes
- Manage Moisture Levels: Pat cauliflower completely dry before oiling to prevent steaming and ensure maximum crispiness.
- Spacing Matters: Spread florets with room between them on the baking sheet to allow hot air circulation and achieve perfect golden-brown edges.
- Cheese Timing: Add Parmesan-breadcrumb mixture in the last 10 minutes of roasting to prevent burning and maintain a crunchy, golden topping.
- Customize Seasoning: Experiment with alternative spices like Italian herbs, cumin, or red pepper flakes to transform the basic recipe and suit different taste preferences.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 5
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 10 mg