Description
This Garlic-Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower recipe delivers a flavorful, tender, and lightly charred side dish that pairs perfectly with any entree or protein. With minimal ingredients like olive oil, paprika, garlic, and Parmesan cheese, this easy-to-make cauliflower dish offers big flavor to impress both vegetable lovers and skeptics alike.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 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
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 to 3 Tbsp. grated Parmesan cheese
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- 2 Tbsp. finely chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Place a large rimmed baking sheet on the center rack of the oven and preheat it to 450ºF to ensure even roasting.
- Prepare the cauliflower: Cut the cauliflower into small florets and transfer them into a large bowl. Toss the florets with extra-virgin olive oil, paprika, kosher salt, and cracked black pepper to evenly coat.
- Roast the cauliflower: Spread the seasoned cauliflower florets out in a single layer on the preheated baking sheet, avoiding overcrowding. Roast for 25 minutes, tossing once halfway through, until the cauliflower is lightly charred and tender.
- Add garlic and Parmesan: Sprinkle the minced garlic and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the roasted cauliflower. Return the baking sheet to the oven and roast for an additional 5 minutes to melt the cheese and infuse garlic flavor.
- Finish and garnish: Remove the cauliflower from the oven, spritz with fresh lemon juice, and toss with finely chopped parsley for a fresh, bright finish. Serve warm.
Notes
- This dish pairs wonderfully with any entree or protein, making it a versatile side for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
- For a spicier twist, add a pinch of cayenne pepper along with the paprika.
- If you prefer a dairy-free version, substitute Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
- Use fresh Parmesan for best melting results and flavor intensity.
- To prevent overcrowding and ensure even roasting, spread florets in a single layer on the baking sheet.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 0.75 cup
- Calories: 140 kcal
- Sugar: 2.5 g
- Sodium: 480 mg
- Fat: 11 g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 8.5 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 7 mg
