Baked cauliflower is a simple and delicious way to enjoy this nutritious veggie. It’s crispy, flavorful, and can be seasoned to your liking. Here’s a basic recipe for baked cauliflower that you can easily customize with different spices or toppings:
Baked Cauliflower:
Ingredients:
- 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika (or smoked paprika for a smokier flavor)
- 1/4 tsp turmeric (optional, for color and flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional, for a fresh kick)
- Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
- Parmesan cheese (optional, for a cheesy finish)
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Prepare the Cauliflower: Cut the cauliflower into bite-sized florets. Try to keep them evenly sized for uniform cooking.
- Season: In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, turmeric (if using), salt, and pepper. Make sure each piece is well coated with the oil and seasoning.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Spread the seasoned cauliflower in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Don’t overcrowd the florets, as this can prevent them from crisping up.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, flipping the florets halfway through to ensure they cook evenly. The cauliflower should be golden brown and crispy on the edges when done.
- Optional Garnish: After baking, drizzle with lemon juice for a fresh tang, and sprinkle with fresh parsley or cilantro. You can also top with grated Parmesan cheese for a cheesy, savory twist.
- Serve: Serve your baked cauliflower as a side dish, snack, or appetizer. It’s great on its own or paired with a dipping sauce like ranch, tzatziki, or your favorite dressing.
Variations:
- Spicy: Add some red pepper flakes or a bit of hot sauce to the seasoning mix for a spicy kick.
- Herby: Add dried oregano, thyme, or rosemary for a herby flavor profile.
- Cheesy: After baking, sprinkle with shredded cheese (cheddar, Parmesan, or mozzarella) and return to the oven for a few minutes to melt.
Enjoy your crispy, flavorful baked cauliflower!