Easy Roasted Cauliflower Recipe

I absolutely love this roasted cauliflower dish as a tribute to simplicity and bold flavor. The beauty lies in how a few ingredients transform cauliflower into golden, crisp-tender bites bursting with buttery, garlicky goodness. I appreciate the flexibility and comfort it brings as a reliable, repeat meal favorite indeed.

I love this easy roasted cauliflower recipe because its one of the best ways to enjoy a healthy veggie dish. In my recipe, I use one large head cauliflower, cut into florets, 2 tablespoons olive oil, and 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted.

I also add salt, pepper, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes so you get just the right touch of flavor. Cauliflower is naturally low in calories and high in fiber and vitamin C so it’s a nutritious choice for a side dish that fits into any roasted vegetable recipes or even when you’re trying out simple roasted cauliflower or other cauliflower recipes like pan fried versions.

I find that the butter and olive oil together help caramelize the florets, giving them a crisp-tender texture. I’ve also experimented with other methods like cooking fresh cauliflower and even on the stove, but this oven method remains the easiest and most delicious for me.

Why I Like this Recipe

1. I love how simple this recipe is to make. I don’t have to spend loads of time and it’s still super delicious every time.
2. I like the flavor and texture. The butter and olive oil make the cauliflower get that perfect crisp-tender finish that makes it really satisfying to eat.
3. I appreciate that I can mix up the seasonings. Whether I feel like adding more garlic or even a bit less heat, i can easily tweak the recipe to suit my mood.
4. I enjoy that its a healthy option that still feels like a treat. It’s perfect for when i want something homemade but not too heavy.

Ingredients

• Cauliflower gives fibre, vitamins, and minerals which keep the meal healthy and hearty.
• Olive oil adds good fats, a smooth flavor, and makes the roasting more even.
• Unsalted butter gives a rich, creamy taste that really enhances the overall dish.
• Garlic powder adds a little extra kick, making the flavors pop and gettin’ bold.
• Red pepper flakes deliver a subtle heat that gives a slight kick to the recipe.

Ingredient Quantities

• 1 large head cauliflower, cut into florets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (if you like a little extra kick)
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a touch of heat)

How to Make this

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Wash and cut the head of cauliflower into bite sized florets.

3. Put the florets in a big bowl and drizzle with 2 tablespoons of olive oil.

4. Pour in 2 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter over the cauliflower.

5. Sprinkle 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/4 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, and if you want some heat, add 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes.

6. Toss everything together until the cauliflower is evenly coated.

7. Spread the florets out on the baking sheet in a single layer.

8. Roast in the oven for about 25-30 minutes until they get golden and crisp-tender.

9. Give them a quick toss halfway through cooking so they roast evenly.

10. Once done, take them out of the oven and serve hot. Enjoy your tasty roasted cauliflower!

Equipment Needed

1. Oven and baking sheet plus parchment paper
2. Cutting board and knife
3. Large mixing bowl
4. Measuring spoons
5. Spatula or tongs
6. Small saucepan or microwave safe bowl for melting butter

FAQ

Easy Roasted Cauliflower Recipe Substitutions and Variations

• Olive oil: You can replace it with avocado oil or even vegetable oil if you dont have any on hand.
• Unsalted butter: Try using coconut oil or a good margarine as a substitute for that rich buttery taste.
• Salt: If you’re trying to keep it a bit mellow, you might opt for sea salt or even a pinch of garlic salt in place of regular salt.
• Garlic powder: Fresh minced garlic can work pretty well if you dont have the powder, adding a more intense garlic flavor.

Pro Tips

1. Make sure you dont overcrowd the pan so the cauliflower can actually roast instead of steam. Spacing out the florets helps them get nice and crispy.
2. Toss them midway through the cooking process. It may sound extra, but flipping them around makes a huge difference in even browning.
3. Dry the cauliflower really well before you add oil and butter. Any extra moisture can stop them from crisping up properly.
4. If you’re into a bit more kick, try mixing in a pinch of fresh minced garlic near the end of the roast – it adds a great burst of flavor without burning up.