Whole Roasted Cauliflower

Whole Roasted Cauliflower is a visually striking and flavorful dish that transforms a humble vegetable into a centerpiece-worthy entrée or side. Roasting the cauliflower whole enhances its natural sweetness and yields a tender interior with a beautifully caramelized exterior.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: Requires minimal ingredients and straightforward steps.
• Versatile Serving Options: Suitable as a main course or a side dish.
• Diet-Friendly: Naturally gluten-free, vegetarian, and can be adapted for vegan and keto diets.
• Customizable Flavors: Easily adaptable with various spices and sauces to suit different palates.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 whole cauliflower head (approximately 2 pounds)
• ½ cup olive oil or melted ghee
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon sea salt
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare Cauliflower: Remove the outer leaves and trim the stem of the cauliflower so it sits flat, keeping the head intact.
3. Make Seasoning Mixture: In a small bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, dried basil, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Apply Seasoning: Place the cauliflower head in a baking dish or Dutch oven. Brush the seasoning mixture evenly over the entire surface of the cauliflower.
5. Roast Covered: Cover the dish with a lid or aluminum foil and roast in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
6. Add Cheese and Broil: Remove the cover, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top, and return to the oven. Broil for an additional 5–10 minutes until the top is golden brown and crispy.
7. Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven, garnish with chopped fresh parsley, and serve warm.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 55 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Harissa Cauliflower: Replace the herb mixture with a blend of harissa paste, olive oil, cumin, paprika, and thyme for a North African twist.
• Cheesy Garlic Butter Cauliflower: Mix melted butter with minced garlic and Parmesan cheese, then brush over the cauliflower before roasting.
• Tahini Sauce Drizzle: After roasting, drizzle with a sauce made from tahini, lemon juice, maple syrup, and garlic for a Middle Eastern flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving to maintain the crispy texture.

FAQs

How do I know when the cauliflower is fully cooked?

Insert a knife or skewer into the center; it should slide in easily without resistance.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can season the cauliflower and refrigerate it up to a day in advance. Roast just before serving for best results.

What can I serve with Whole Roasted Cauliflower?

It pairs well with grains like quinoa or couscous, leafy green salads, or as a side to roasted meats.

Is it necessary to use a Dutch oven?

No, any oven-safe baking dish covered with foil will work effectively.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely. Use olive oil instead of ghee and omit the Parmesan cheese or use a plant-based alternative.

How can I add more flavor to the cauliflower?

Consider adding spices like cumin, curry powder, or smoked paprika to the seasoning mix.

What should I do if the top is browning too quickly?

Tent the cauliflower with foil during roasting to prevent over-browning.

Can I use frozen cauliflower?

It’s not recommended, as frozen cauliflower may release excess moisture, affecting the roasting process.

How do I achieve a crispier texture?

After roasting, place the cauliflower under the broiler for a few minutes to crisp the exterior.

Is this recipe suitable for a keto diet?

Yes, it’s low in carbohydrates and fits well within a keto dietary plan.

Conclusion

Whole Roasted Cauliflower is a delightful and adaptable dish that brings out the best in this versatile vegetable. Whether you’re seeking a hearty vegetarian main or a flavorful side, this recipe offers a satisfying and health-conscious option that’s sure to impress.

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