Appetizer & Snacks

Roasted Cauliflower with Parmesan

Name: Roasted Cauliflower with Parmesan
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4
Ingredients: 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets; 3 tbsp olive oil; ½ tsp salt; ½ tsp black pepper; ½ tsp garlic powder; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tbsp chopped parsley; Lemon wedges

Servings: 4 Total Time: 40 mins Difficulty: Beginner

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Introduction

Roasted Cauliflower with Parmesan is a dish that proves vegetables can easily be the star of the table. Roasting brings out cauliflower’s natural sweetness while giving it a slightly nutty flavor and crispy edges. A generous sprinkle of Parmesan adds a savory, cheesy finish that elevates this simple vegetable into something elegant and addictive. This recipe is quick, healthy, and incredibly versatile, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special holiday sides.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it transforms a humble head of cauliflower into something extraordinary with minimal effort. The high-heat roasting caramelizes the cauliflower, giving it depth and flavor, while Parmesan adds richness and a salty, umami-packed crunch. It’s one of those dishes where you find yourself eating “just one more bite” until the tray is empty.

Why This is a Must-Try Dish

Simple but flavorful: Only a handful of ingredients, yet packed with taste.
Healthy and satisfying: Low-carb, high-fiber, and nutrient-rich.
Crowd-pleaser: Even picky eaters who usually avoid cauliflower will love it.
Versatile: Works as a side, appetizer, or even a snack.

Recipe Information

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25–30 minutes
Total Time: 35–40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: ~150 per serving (approximate)
Cuisine: American / Mediterranean-inspired
Course: Side Dish / Appetizer

Ingredients

1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
3 tbsp olive oil
½ tsp salt (or to taste)
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp garlic powder (optional, for flavor)
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated preferred)
1 tbsp chopped parsley (for garnish, optional)
Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)

Simple Cooking Directions

Toss cauliflower florets with olive oil and seasonings.
Roast until golden and crispy.
Sprinkle Parmesan before finishing in the oven.

Step-by-Step Preparation

Step 1: Prep Cauliflower

Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
Wash cauliflower, pat dry, and cut into bite-sized florets.

Step 2: Season

In a large bowl, toss cauliflower with olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Spread evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 3: Roast

Roast for 20 minutes, tossing halfway through.
After 20 minutes, sprinkle Parmesan evenly over cauliflower.

Step 4: Finish

Roast for an additional 5–10 minutes until cauliflower is golden brown and Parmesan is melted and crisp.

Step 5: Serve

Transfer to a serving dish, garnish with parsley, and serve warm with optional lemon wedges.

How to Serve

Perfect as a side dish to roasted chicken, steak, or fish.
Serve as an appetizer with a dipping sauce like ranch or aioli.
Add to grain bowls, pasta, or salads for extra flavor and texture.

Additional Recipe Tips

Make sure cauliflower is completely dry before roasting for maximum crispiness.
Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet; use two trays if necessary.
Use freshly grated Parmesan — pre-grated varieties won’t melt as well.
For extra crunch, mix in some panko breadcrumbs with Parmesan.

Variations

Spicy Parmesan Cauliflower: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper.
Herbed Cauliflower: Toss with dried Italian herbs or rosemary.
Cheesy Upgrade: Mix Parmesan with shredded cheddar or Gruyère.
Vegan Version: Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a cheesy flavor.

Freezing & Storage

Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes to keep it crispy.
Freezing: Not recommended, as roasted cauliflower loses texture after thawing.

Special Equipment Needed

Baking sheet
Parchment paper (optional, but helps with cleanup)
Large mixing bowl

Conclusion

Roasted Cauliflower with Parmesan is a simple yet elegant dish that proves vegetables can be both healthy and indulgent. With its golden caramelized edges, nutty roasted flavor, and savory Parmesan topping, it’s a side dish that elevates any meal. Quick to prepare, adaptable, and always a crowd favorite — this recipe deserves a permanent spot on your dinner table.

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