Description
This Garlic-Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower recipe offers a deliciously crispy and flavorful side dish perfect for any meal. Tender cauliflower florets are tossed with olive oil, paprika, garlic, and Parmesan cheese, then roasted to golden perfection. Finished with a fresh squeeze of lemon juice and a sprinkle of parsley, this dish combines savory, tangy, and herbaceous notes for a delightful vegetable treat.
Ingredients
Cauliflower and Seasoning
- 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into florets (about 8 cups)
- 3 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 1/2 tsp. paprika
- 3/4 tsp. kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp. cracked black pepper
Finishing Ingredients
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 to 3 Tbsp. grated Parmesan cheese
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- 2 Tbsp. finely chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Cauliflower: Place a large rimmed baking sheet on the center rack of the oven and preheat to 450ºF. Meanwhile, cut the cauliflower into small florets and place them in a large bowl.
- Toss with Seasonings: Add the olive oil, paprika, kosher salt, and cracked black pepper to the cauliflower florets. Toss thoroughly to coat the florets evenly with the seasoning mixture.
- Roast Cauliflower: Spread the seasoned cauliflower evenly in a single layer on the preheated baking sheet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Roast in the oven for 20 to 25 minutes, tossing the florets once halfway through cooking. The cauliflower should become lightly charred and tender.
- Add Parmesan and Garlic, Then Roast Again: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese and minced garlic over the roasted cauliflower. Return the baking sheet to the oven and roast for an additional 5 minutes to let the cheese melt and the garlic infuse its flavor.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the cauliflower from the oven, spritz the juice of half a lemon over the top, and garnish with finely chopped fresh parsley. Toss gently to combine and serve warm.
Notes
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper along with the paprika.
- Make sure the cauliflower florets are spread out evenly on the baking sheet to ensure proper roasting and crispy edges.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and melting quality.
- The lemon juice adds brightness; adjust the quantity to your taste or omit if preferred.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven to maintain crispness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
