Tired of the same old side dishes? Craving a healthy and flavorful meal that's surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This recipe for roasted whole head of cauliflower is the perfect answer. It's a stunning centerpiece, bursting with delicious roasted flavor, and requires minimal effort. Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinners and impress your friends with this simple yet elegant dish. It's a fantastic example of how easy healthy meals can be!
Ingredients:
- 1 large head of cauliflower
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (smoked paprika adds a delicious smoky depth)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, or a mix are excellent choices)
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your cauliflower roasts perfectly and develops a lovely golden-brown crust.
Prepare the Cauliflower:
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Trim the stem of the cauliflower, leaving about an inch attached to help it hold its shape during roasting. This is a crucial step for maintaining the integrity of the head.
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Rinse the cauliflower under cold water and pat it completely dry. Dry cauliflower is essential for achieving a crispy roast.
Season and Roast:
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In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and fresh herbs. Make sure all surfaces of the cauliflower are evenly coated.
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Place the cauliflower on a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
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Roast for 45-60 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender and the outer florets are deeply golden brown. Check for doneness by piercing the thickest part of the stem with a fork; it should offer minimal resistance.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve your roasted cauliflower as a delicious vegetarian main course, a stunning side dish to complement roasted meats or grilled fish, or even as part of a vibrant and healthy bowl.
Tips for the Best Roasted Cauliflower:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Give your cauliflower plenty of space to roast evenly. If necessary, use two baking sheets.
- Adjust seasoning to your taste: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices. A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick!
- For extra crispy cauliflower: Increase the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C) for the last 15 minutes of roasting.
- Make it a meal: Add roasted vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or Brussels sprouts to the baking sheet for a complete and balanced meal.
Variations:
- Lemon Herb Roasted Cauliflower: Add the zest and juice of one lemon to the seasoning mix.
- Spicy Roasted Cauliflower: Increase the amount of paprika and add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
- Cheese-topped Cauliflower: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the cauliflower during the last 10 minutes of roasting.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary based on the size of the cauliflower and the amount of oil used. However, roasted cauliflower is generally low in calories and high in fiber and vitamins. A good estimate is around 150-200 calories per serving.
This recipe for roasted whole head of cauliflower is a perfect example of how simple, delicious, and healthy homemade cooking can be. It's a quick dinner idea that's sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!