Name: Crispy Roasted Cauliflower: The Ultimate Crunchy Delight! Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-491326H21M45S
Total time: PT-491326H21M45S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 large head cauliflower, cut into florets; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for serving); 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

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Introduction

Crispy roasted cauliflower is a simple and delicious way to enjoy this versatile vegetable. With a smoky paprika flavor and a satisfying crunch, it makes a perfect side dish or snack that’s both healthy and flavorful.

A white bowl is filled with several pieces of roasted cauliflower, each piece showing a golden brown, slightly crispy texture with charred edges. The florets vary in size, piled up with visible light yellow inner flesh and darker browned outer parts. Scattered on top are small green parsley leaves and some white grated cheese, adding color and texture contrast. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface near a window, where natural light softly highlights the crispy details of the cauliflower. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 large head cauliflower, cut into florets
3 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for serving)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
Step 3: Spread the cauliflower in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, making sure the florets are not crowded.
Step 4: Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the cauliflower is golden brown and crispy on the edges.
Step 5: Remove from the oven and, if desired, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese while hot. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Tips & Variations

For extra crispiness, make sure cauliflower florets are dry before tossing with oil and spices.
Try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a vegan-friendly cheesy flavor.
Serve with a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the flavors.

Storage

Store leftover roasted cauliflower in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes to help restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.

How to Serve

A white bowl filled with about two layers of roasted cauliflower florets, each floret golden yellow with dark brown crispy edges from roasting, giving a crunchy texture, scattered with small green parsley leaves and white grated cheese on top. The cauliflower pieces have a slightly rough surface with some charred spots adding depth, all sitting on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cauliflower for this recipe?

Fresh cauliflower works best for roasting because it crisps up nicely. If using frozen, thaw and pat dry thoroughly before seasoning to avoid steaming instead of roasting.

Is this recipe suitable for a vegan diet?

Yes, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or replace it with a vegan alternative like nutritional yeast to keep it vegan-friendly.