Roasted Cauliflower with Crispy Parmesan

Roasted Cauliflower with Crispy Parmesan

Cauliflower is a versatile vegetable that can easily steal the show in any dish. If you’re looking for a tasty and healthy side dish, Roasted Cauliflower with Crispy Parmesan is a perfect choice. This delicious recipe combines the nutty flavor of roasted cauliflower with the savory goodness of crispy Parmesan cheese. It’s simple to make and sure to please everyone at your table. Plus, it’s a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your meals without sacrificing flavor.

Why Make This Recipe

Roasting cauliflower is a fantastic way to enhance its natural flavors. When you roast it at high temperatures, the edges caramelize, creating a wonderful contrast between tender and crispy textures. Adding Parmesan cheese not only boosts the flavor but also provides a satisfying crunch. This dish is not only healthy, but it is also gluten-free and low in carbs, making it a great option for many dietary preferences. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner, a holiday feast, or a simple weeknight meal, this roasted cauliflower with crispy Parmesan will surely become a favorite side dish.

How to Make Roasted Cauliflower with Crispy Parmesan

Making Roasted Cauliflower with Crispy Parmesan is straightforward and fun. You’ll find that it comes together quickly, and with just a few ingredients, you’ll have a delicious dish that looks like it came from a five-star restaurant.

Ingredients

To make this delightful recipe, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 head of cauliflower
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)

Directions

Follow these simple steps to create your Roasted Cauliflower with Crispy Parmesan:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cut the cauliflower into florets and place them in a bowl.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder, salt, pepper, and paprika if using.
4. Toss the florets until evenly coated.
5. Place the cauliflower on a baking sheet in a single layer.
6. Roast in the oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until golden and tender.
7. In the last 5 minutes of roasting, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the cauliflower and return to the oven until the cheese is crispy.
8. Serve warm as a side dish.

How to Serve Roasted Cauliflower with Crispy Parmesan

Roasted Cauliflower with Crispy Parmesan is an incredibly versatile side dish. You can serve it alongside a variety of main courses. It pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, steak, or baked fish. You can also enjoy it as a light appetizer with a dipping sauce, such as ranch or garlic aioli. For a complete meal, serve it with a wholesome grain like quinoa or brown rice. Whatever option you choose, this dish will make a delicious and nutritious addition to your table.

How to Store Roasted Cauliflower with Crispy Parmesan

If you happen to have leftovers (though they might not last long), storing your Roasted Cauliflower with Crispy Parmesan is easy.

• Let the cauliflower cool completely.
• Place it in an airtight container.
• Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To reheat, place the cauliflower back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until hot. This will help revive the crunchy cheese.

Tips to Make Roasted Cauliflower with Crispy Parmesan

Here are some helpful tips to ensure your Roasted Cauliflower with Crispy Parmesan turns out perfect every time:

• Cut Florets Evenly: Ensure the cauliflower florets are of similar size. This helps them roast evenly.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Give the florets room on the baking sheet. Overcrowding can cause them to steam instead of roast.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to explore different spices and herbs. Cumin, chili powder, or Italian seasoning can give a unique flavor.
• Use Fresh Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese tends to melt better and gives a superior cheesy crispiness compared to pre-grated cheese.

Variation

You can easily switch up the flavor profile of this dish. Here are a few variations to try:

• Add Lemon: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the roasted cauliflower for a bright and zesty finish.
• Add Herbs: Toss fresh or dried herbs like thyme, oregano, or rosemary into the mix for extra flavor.
• Spicy Option: For a kick, add crushed red pepper flakes with the garlic powder.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen cauliflower instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen cauliflower, but it may not get as crispy as fresh. Be sure to thaw and dry it thoroughly before roasting.

2. How can I make this dish vegan?
To make a vegan version, you can skip the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan cheese alternative.

3. Can I prep this ahead of time?
You can cut the cauliflower and season it a few hours before roasting. Just store it in the refrigerator, then roast it when you’re ready to serve.

Now that you have all the details on how to make Roasted Cauliflower with Crispy Parmesan, it’s time to gather your ingredients and start cooking. Enjoy the delicious flavors and healthy goodness of this delightful dish!

Roasted Cauliflower with Crispy Parmesan

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• Author: amanda-hart
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Gluten-Free

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Description

A delicious side dish combining the nutty flavor of roasted cauliflower with the savory goodness of crispy Parmesan cheese.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 head of cauliflower
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cut the cauliflower into florets and place them in a bowl.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder, salt, pepper, and paprika if using.
4. Toss the florets until evenly coated.
5. Place the cauliflower on a baking sheet in a single layer.
6. Roast in the oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until golden and tender.
7. In the last 5 minutes of roasting, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the cauliflower and return to the oven until the cheese is crispy.
8. Serve warm as a side dish.

Notes

Cut florets evenly for even roasting. Don’t overcrowd the pan to avoid steaming. Experiment with spices for a unique flavor.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Roasting
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 180
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 300mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 20mg

Keywords: cauliflower, roasted vegetables, side dish, healthy eating