Introduction
Whole roasted cauliflower is a beautiful, flavorful, and incredibly easy dish that can be the star of any meal. Whether you’re looking for a plant-based centerpiece, a tasty side dish, or a healthy alternative to traditional roasted meats, this recipe is perfect for you.
The best part? Minimal effort, maximum flavor! With just a handful of ingredients, you’ll achieve a crispy, golden exterior and a tender, buttery interior. Plus, it’s highly customizable—spice it up, drizzle it with sauces, or pair it with your favorite sides.
So, whether you’re a beginner cook or an experienced chef, this whole roasted cauliflower recipe is guaranteed to impress. Let’s get started!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✅ Easy & Beginner-Friendly – No special skills required!
✅ Minimal Ingredients – Simple pantry staples do the trick.
✅ Healthy & Nutritious – Packed with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.
✅ Impressive Presentation – Looks like a gourmet dish with little effort.
✅ Versatile & Customizable – Easily adapt the flavors to suit your taste.
Ingredients for Whole Roasted Cauliflower
This recipe is simple but delivers big flavors. Here’s what you’ll need:
Basic Ingredients:
- 1 whole cauliflower (medium-sized, about 2-3 pounds)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 teaspoon thyme or rosemary (fresh or dried)
- 2 cups vegetable broth (for extra moisture and flavor)
Optional Add-Ins for Extra Flavor:
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard – Adds a tangy depth to the flavor.
- ½ teaspoon cumin – For a warm, earthy taste.
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes – If you like a spicy kick.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan or nutritional yeast – For a cheesy touch.
- Juice of ½ lemon – Adds brightness to balance the richness.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create the perfect whole roasted cauliflower.
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place a cast-iron skillet or baking dish in the oven to warm up.
Step 2: Prepare the Cauliflower
- Trim the cauliflower – Remove the outer leaves and trim the stem slightly so it sits flat.
- Rinse well – Wash the cauliflower and pat it dry with a towel.
Step 3: Make the Flavorful Coating
- In a small bowl, mix olive oil (or butter), garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme.
- If using mustard or lemon juice, whisk it in as well.
Step 4: Coat the Cauliflower
- Place the cauliflower stem-side down in a baking dish or Dutch oven.
- Use a basting brush or your hands to rub the seasoning mixture all over the cauliflower.
- Pour vegetable broth into the dish to keep the cauliflower moist while roasting.
Step 5: Roast the Cauliflower
- Cover the dish loosely with foil and roast for 30 minutes to allow steam to soften the cauliflower.
- Remove the foil and baste with the pan juices for extra moisture.
- Continue roasting uncovered for 20-30 minutes until golden brown.
Step 6: Check for Doneness
- Insert a knife or skewer into the cauliflower. It should go through easily, but the cauliflower should still hold its shape.
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