Description
Roasted Cauliflower with a Kick is a vibrant and healthy side dish combining perfectly roasted cauliflower florets with bold smoky and spicy flavors. Quick to prepare and versatile, it pairs beautifully with a variety of main dishes and is ideal for meal prep or entertaining.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 medium head of fresh cauliflower, cut into medium-sized florets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ to ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Prep the Cauliflower: Start by washing the cauliflower head thoroughly and cutting it into medium-sized florets, ensuring pieces are uniform for even roasting.
- Make the Spice Mix: In a small bowl, combine olive oil, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Adjust the cayenne according to your preferred heat level.
- Toss Cauliflower with Spices: Pour the spice mixture over the cauliflower florets and gently toss them thoroughly, making sure every piece is well coated.
- Roast to Perfection: Spread the coated florets in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Roast in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through cooking until the edges are golden and crispy.
- Add the Final Touch: Remove the roasted cauliflower from the oven, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top, and sprinkle with chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- Cut cauliflower florets to similar size to ensure even roasting and caramelization.
- Do not overcrowd the baking sheet to prevent steaming and promote crisp edges.
- Start with a low amount of cayenne pepper if unsure about heat tolerance and increase gradually.
- Use fresh spices that are no older than six months for maximum flavor.
- Roast at high temperature to achieve crispy, charred edges that add flavor and texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
Keywords: roasted cauliflower, spicy cauliflower, healthy side dish, gluten free, vegetarian, vegan, easy side, meal prep
