We’re hooked on roasted cauliflower. It’s sweet, nutty and so easy to make. Perfect as a side, for topping pastas or eaten as a snack. We’re even thinking that it might convert a few anti-cauliflower cooks out there. (Fingers crossed).
How to Roast Cauliflower in the Oven
Roasting is one of our favorite ways to cook cauliflower — in fact, we love this method so much that we’ve used it to make spicy roasted cauliflower, buffalo roasted cauliflower wings, and a Thai curry roasted cauliflower. Start by cutting the cauliflower into florets then toss them onto a large baking sheet, add a little olive oil, salt, pepper and some thyme — fresh or dried thyme work. Slide the cauliflower into a hot oven — we go for 425 degrees Fahrenheit — and roast, turning once until the florets have caramelized a little on all sides. It takes about 30 minutes. When the cauliflower is browned in places and tender in the middle, we toss a handful of parmesan cheese on top, and then slide it back into the oven for an extra 5 minutes. The cheese melts and browns a little — so delicious. Then, just before serving we scatter lemon zest and a spritz of lemon juice on top. The lemon brightens the dish up and works so well with the sweet nutty flavor of the cauliflower. Recipe updated, originally posted April 2013. Since posting this in 2013, we have tweaked the recipe to be more clear. – Adam and Joanne 1 tablespoon olive oil 1/2 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme leaves or 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt 1/4 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper 1/2 ounce grated parmesan cheese (about 1/3 cup) 1 teaspoon lemon zest Juice from half a lemon 2Add cauliflower florets to baking sheet and top with olive oil, thyme, salt, and pepper. Using kitchen tongs or hands, toss until florets are well coated. Spread florets into a single layer. 3Roast the cauliflower for 20 minutes, stir, and then continue to roast until tips and edges have turned golden brown, 25 to 30 minutes. 4Scatter the parmesan over cauliflower and place back into the oven for 5 minutes until cheese has melted and begins to brown. Remove from the oven and finish with lemon zest and lemon juice on top.
