Baked Cauliflower

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🌿 Baked Cauliflower Recipe

📖 Description

Baked cauliflower is a simple yet flavorful side dish where fresh cauliflower florets are tossed with olive oil, garlic, herbs, and spices, then roasted until golden and crispy. It’s a healthier alternative to fried snacks and pairs beautifully with meats, grains, or dips. This recipe is versatile—you can make it cheesy, spicy, or even coat it with breadcrumbs for extra crunch.

🍴 Ingredients

  • 1 medium cauliflower head (cut into florets)

  • 3 tbsp olive oil (or melted butter)

  • 3 garlic cloves, minced

  • 1 tsp paprika (optional: smoked paprika)

  • ½ tsp turmeric (for color & health benefits)

  • ½ tsp black pepper

  • 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)

  • 2 tbsp grated Parmesan (optional, for cheesy version)

  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

  • Juice of ½ lemon (optional, for brightness)

🥘 Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

  2. Prepare cauliflower: Wash and cut the cauliflower into bite-sized florets. Pat dry.

  3. Season: In a large bowl, mix olive oil, garlic, paprika, turmeric, pepper, and salt. Add cauliflower and toss until evenly coated.

  4. Arrange & Bake: Spread cauliflower on the baking sheet in a single layer.

  5. Bake for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and slightly crispy.

  6. Optional topping: Sprinkle Parmesan in the last 5 minutes of baking for a cheesy crust.

  7. Garnish & Serve: Drizzle lemon juice and top with parsley before serving.

📝 Notes

  • For extra crunch, toss florets in 2 tbsp breadcrumbs before baking.

  • If you like it spicy, add chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix.

  • You can make this recipe vegan by skipping cheese or using nutritional yeast.

💡 Tips

  • Spread florets apart—overcrowding will steam them instead of roasting.

  • Dry cauliflower well before baking for the crispiest texture.

  • Pair with yogurt dip, hummus, or tahini sauce for extra flavor.

  • Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or air fryer.

🍽️ Servings

  • Serves: 4 people

  • Prep time: 10 minutes

  • Cook time: 30 minutes

  • Total time: 40 minutes

📊 Nutritional Info (per serving, without cheese)

  • Calories: ~120 kcal

  • Protein: 4 g

  • Fat: 7 g

  • Carbohydrates: 12 g

  • Fiber: 4 g

  • Sugar: 3 g

🌟 Health Benefits

  • Cauliflower is rich in vitamin C, vitamin K, and fiber.

  • Contains antioxidants that support heart health.

  • Low in calories but filling, making it great for weight management.

  • Anti-inflammatory properties from turmeric and garlic.

 Q&A

Q: Can I make this in an air fryer?
A: Yes! Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 15–18 minutes, shaking halfway.

Q: How do I make it kid-friendly?
A: Add some cheese or a light breadcrumb coating to make it more appealing.

Q: Can I prep ahead?
A: Yes, you can cut and season cauliflower ahead, store in the fridge for up to 24 hours, then bake when ready.

Q: What can I serve this with?
A: It pairs perfectly with grilled chicken, fish, rice bowls, or can be enjoyed as a healthy snack.

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