Whole Roasted Cauliflower is a simple yet impressive dish that can serve as a centerpiece for dinner. It’s crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and full of flavor. Here’s a basic recipe for making a whole roasted cauliflower:
Ingredients:
- 1 large head of cauliflower (remove the leaves, but keep the stem intact)
- 2-3 tbsp olive oil (or melted butter)
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
- 1/2 tsp ground turmeric (optional, for color and flavor)
- 1/2 tsp cumin or coriander (optional, for a warm flavor)
- 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional, for bright flavor)
- Fresh herbs for garnish (parsley, cilantro, or thyme)
- Optional: grated Parmesan cheese, for topping
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the Cauliflower: Trim the leaves off the cauliflower, but leave the stem intact so the head stays whole. If you like, you can cut a small part off the bottom of the stem so the cauliflower sits flat.
- Season the Cauliflower: In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil (or melted butter), minced garlic (if using), paprika, turmeric, cumin, salt, and pepper. Brush this mixture generously over the cauliflower, making sure to coat all the nooks and crannies. You can also drizzle the oil and spice mixture over it with a spoon.
- Roast the Cauliflower: Place the cauliflower on a baking sheet or in a roasting pan. Roast it in the preheated oven for about 45-60 minutes, depending on the size of the cauliflower. Check for doneness by inserting a fork or knife into the stem; it should be tender but not mushy. You may want to flip the cauliflower halfway through the cooking time for even browning.
- Finish with Lemon and Herbs: Once the cauliflower is golden brown and tender, remove it from the oven. Drizzle it with fresh lemon juice, and garnish with chopped fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or thyme.
- Optional – Add Cheese: For an extra indulgent touch, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top of the cauliflower during the last 10 minutes of roasting. It’ll melt and become crispy, adding a deliciously savory finish.
- Serve: Slice the cauliflower into wedges or serve it whole as a dramatic centerpiece. It pairs beautifully with a variety of main dishes or can stand alone as a hearty vegetarian option.
Tips:
- Flavors: Customize the seasoning blend to your liking. You can add curry powder, garlic powder, or even a bit of chili powder for heat.
- Crispier Exterior: If you like the cauliflower extra crispy, broil it for the last 3-5 minutes, keeping a close eye on it so it doesn’t burn.
- Serving Ideas: Serve it with a side of yogurt or tahini sauce for dipping, or sprinkle with toasted nuts (like almonds or pine nuts) for extra texture.
Whole roasted cauliflower is a healthy and satisfying dish that’s both beautiful and delicious—perfect for impressing guests or enjoying as a tasty side!
