The Easiest Roasted Cauliflower Recipes Is Also the Best (2024)

  • Recipes
  • Recipes By Ingredients
  • Vegetables

A squeeze of lemon juice and some Parmesan cheese are all you need for an excellent side dish.

By

Elise Bauer

The Easiest Roasted Cauliflower Recipes Is Also the Best (1)

Elise Bauer

Elise founded Simply Recipes in 2003 and led the site until 2019. She has an MA in Food Research from Stanford University.

Learn about Simply Recipes'Editorial Process

Updated August 15, 2023

62 Ratings

The Easiest Roasted Cauliflower Recipes Is Also the Best (2)

Cauliflower. Plain, simple, and on its own? Rather unimaginative.

But roasted? Until the edges get all browned and caramelized? Totally different story.

When roasted, cauliflower becomes nutty and buttery, but without any nuts or butter. Roasted, it is the perfect vehicle for garlic, olive oil, lemon and Parmesan.

I grew up with basic steamed cauliflower, which is fine and good and sometimes all that you need. But if you've never had roasted cauliflower, I urge you to try it! It will transform a picky I-don't-like-vegetables eater into a cauliflower addict.

The Easiest Roasted Cauliflower Recipes Is Also the Best (3)

How to Cut and Core Cauliflower

It's easy to cut and core cauliflower! Just pull off the leaves from the base, and cut the cauliflower in quarters, from the top of the crown through the stem. Lay the cauliflower quarters on the cutting board and angle the knife to cut the florets from the core.

How to Cut and Core CauliflowerREAD MORE:

Can You Roast Frozen Cauliflower?

Sure! In fact if you are starting with frozen cauliflower florets, it's better to not defrost them first. Here are some tips to adjust this recipe for frozen cauliflower:

The Easiest Roasted Cauliflower Recipes Is Also the Best (4)

  • Raise the oven temperature by 50°F (10°C), to 450°F (232°C). You want searing dry heat to evaporate any ice condensation on the frozen cauliflower, so that the cauliflower roasts in the oven, not steams.
  • Toss the florets generously with oil, making sure they are truly well coated, before putting them in the oven. The oil will help the cauliflower edges brown and help keep the florets from drying out.
  • Stir the florets half-way through cooking, so more sides get exposed to the high heat.
5 Easy Tips for Crispy (Never Rubbery) Roasted Frozen VegetablesREAD MORE:

What to Serve With Roasted Cauliflower

Cauliflower pairs beautifully as a side for chicken, so consider serving it with roast chicken, or lemon chicken. I also love baked cod or halibut with roasted cauliflower on side. Cauliflower would work well alongside grilled beef too, like these grilled skirt steak skewers.

The Easiest Roasted Cauliflower Recipes Is Also the Best (5)

5 More Ways to Love Cauliflower

  • Roasted Curried Cauliflower
  • Simple Cauliflower Soup
  • Pasta with Cauliflower, Tomato, and Parmesan
  • Cauliflower Gnocchi (Trader Joe's Copycat!)
  • How to Make the Best Cauliflower Pizza Crust

Easy Roasted Cauliflower

Prep Time10 mins

Cook Time30 mins

Total Time40 mins

Servings4 servings

This recipe is more of a method than a precise recipe with exact amounts. Sprinkle as much or as little Parmesan cheese as you want.

Ingredients

  • 1 head cauliflower, cut into florets

  • 2 to 3 cloves garlic, peeled and chopped

  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (about half a lemon)

  • Extra virgin olive oil

  • Coarse salt and freshly ground black pepper

  • Freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Method

  1. Preheat oven, prepare pan:

    Preheat oven to 400°F (205°C). Lightly oil a large roasting pan or baking sheet, or line with aluminum foil.

  2. Prep the cauliflower:

    Place the cauliflower florets in a bowl. Toss with minced garlic. Sprinkle with lemon juice. Drizzle with olive oil and toss so that the florets are lightly coated with oil.

    The Easiest Roasted Cauliflower Recipes Is Also the Best (6)

  3. Spread on roasting pan and sprinkle with salt and pepper:

    Spread the florets out into a single layer on the roasting pan. Sprinkle with salt and pepper.

    The Easiest Roasted Cauliflower Recipes Is Also the Best (7)

  4. Roast until lightly browned:

    Roast the cauliflower at 400°F (205°C), uncovered, for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the tops are lightly brown. Use a fork to test for doneness; the tines should easily pierce the cauliflower when done.

    The Easiest Roasted Cauliflower Recipes Is Also the Best (8)

  5. Sprinkle with Parmesan:

    Remove the cauliflower from the oven and sprinkle generously with Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately.

    Did you love this recipe? Give us some stars below!

    The Easiest Roasted Cauliflower Recipes Is Also the Best (9)

  • Vegetables
  • Low Carb and Vegan
  • Low Carb and Vegetarian
  • Vegetarian
  • Easy Recipes
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
71Calories
4g Fat
7g Carbs
3g Protein

×

Nutrition Facts
Servings: 4
Amount per serving
Calories71
% Daily Value*
Total Fat 4g6%
Saturated Fat 1g4%
Cholesterol 1mg0%
Sodium 119mg5%
Total Carbohydrate 7g3%
Dietary Fiber 3g12%
Total Sugars 3g
Protein 3g
Vitamin C 63mg316%
Calcium 38mg3%
Iron 1mg3%
Potassium 215mg5%
*The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a food serving contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Nutrition information is calculated using an ingredient database and should be considered an estimate. In cases where multiple ingredient alternatives are given, the first listed is calculated for nutrition. Garnishes and optional ingredients are not included.

The Easiest Roasted Cauliflower Recipes Is Also the Best (2024)

FAQs

Why do you soak cauliflower before cooking? ›

This process – which should last 10-20 minutes - destroys several microbes and large parasites. As cauliflower is highly susceptible to microbial attacks, it should be washed once again. This time, boil some water and put the cauliflower florets in it. Keep for five minutes and remove from the hot water.

How healthy is roasted cauliflower? ›

When it comes to nutrition, cauliflower is a superstar. It's high in vitamins C and K, and is also a good source of folate, which supports cell growth and is essential during pregnancy. Cauliflower is fat-free and cholesterol-free. And it's low in sodium.

What brings out the Flavour of cauliflower? ›

This is true of any vegetable — boiling it will give you a flavor closer to the raw flavor, which means more bitterness and more astringency. Caramelizing it will bring out its hidden sweetness. This light, vibrant roasted cauliflower salad is a recipe I developed for the fall menu at Duo.

Why is my roasted cauliflower tough? ›

Undercooking It. Overcooking is bad, but undercooking cauliflower is an equally off-putting problem. "When making cauliflower steaks or roasting florets, if you don't roast it in the oven long enough it will be warm but still hard and unenjoyable to eat," says Michalczyk.

What will adding lemon juice to the water for cooking cauliflower do? ›

Cauliflower should be cooked quartered, or cut into florets at the base of the stem. In kitchen lore, lemon juice, milk, flour and vinegar have all been recommended as additions to cauliflower cooking water, presumably to keep it white.

Should cauliflower be washed before roasting? ›

Instructions
  1. Preheat oven to 425°F.
  2. Wash cauliflower, cut it into medium-sized florets, and dry very thoroughly. Don't skip drying — it's important. ...
  3. Add florets to a large bowl, add olive oil, and toss to coat. ...
  4. Bake for 10 minutes, flip each piece over, and bake for 10 more minutes.

Can I eat too much cauliflower? ›

While everyone's tolerance is different, too much cauliflower can create G.I. distress, like excess gas and bloating. “Make sure to drink enough water to move it through your system,” suggests Lincoln. Cooking it can also dial back digestion woes.

What color cauliflower is healthiest? ›

Purple. Purple cauliflower is the healthiest option, with numerous advantages. The purple hue is due to the antioxidants called anthocyanins. These are the pigments present in various other plants and plant-based products, including red cabbage and red wine.

Is cauliflower good for high blood pressure? ›

The potassium in cauliflower can help keep your blood pressure from getting too high. Studies have shown that increasing potassium in the diet can reduce blood pressure and cardiovascular disease.

What does baking soda do to cauliflower? ›

Baking soda is often used as a natural cleaning agent, and it can be used to brighten up your veggies too. Sprinkle a little in the water before boiling to prevent cauliflower from yellowing and make corn look more vibrant.

Why does cooked cauliflower hurt my stomach? ›

Cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and cauliflower contain high levels of insoluble fiber, which can quickly lead to digestive upset, especially when consumed raw. Symptoms can include bloating, gas and cramping.

Can dogs eat cauliflower? ›

Yes, dogs can eat cauliflower in moderation, either raw or cooked. Cauliflower is a source of dietary fiber, vitamin K, and vitamin C for dogs. Some dogs may dislike the slightly bitter taste of cauliflower. Avoid cauliflower with seasonings or oils, as they can cause upset stomach.

Can you cook cauliflower too long? ›

The general rule of thumb is about 20 minutes. Cauliflower that is overcooked will lose up to 50% of its vitamins and minerals. If you want a healthy meal, cook it for just a few minutes less.

Should I soak my cauliflower? ›

Broccoli and Cauliflower

Get your cruciferous veggies squeaky clean by filling a sink with cold water and then soaking them for a few minutes. Then, gently lift them out of the water, place in a colander and rinse again under a stream of more cold water.

Should I soak cauliflower in salt water? ›

Next, transfer the florets to a colander and place them under running water to wash off the dirt and bigger bugs. After this, it is suggested to blanch them in salt water to kill bacteria and parasites for 10–20 minutes.

How long to soak cauliflower in vinegar water? ›

Produce with rough outer skin: Items such as broccoli, potatoes and cauliflower are a little harder to clean. Soak in a solution of 1 part vinegar to 3 parts water for 1 minute. For heads of cabbage or lettuce, it's best to separate the leaves first.

Is it worth marinating cauliflower? ›

Introduction: Easy Eats: Marinated Roasted Cauliflower

This one takes a day or two to get going, but it's really tasty and super easy to make. It's also has the benefit of being low carb, and nutrient-dense.

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Rueben Jacobs

Last Updated:

Views: 6279

Rating: 4.7 / 5 (77 voted)

Reviews: 92% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Rueben Jacobs

Birthday: 1999-03-14

Address: 951 Caterina Walk, Schambergerside, CA 67667-0896

Phone: +6881806848632

Job: Internal Education Planner

Hobby: Candle making, Cabaret, Poi, Gambling, Rock climbing, Wood carving, Computer programming

Introduction: My name is Rueben Jacobs, I am a cooperative, beautiful, kind, comfortable, glamorous, open, magnificent person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.