🥢 Crispy Roasted Cauliflower
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
Total Time: 35–40 minutes
🧄 Ingredients
1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
3 tbsp olive oil (or avocado oil)
2 tbsp cornstarch (for extra crispiness)
1 tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
½ tsp turmeric (optional, for color and depth)
½ tsp salt (to taste)
¼ tsp black pepper
¼ tsp chili flakes or cayenne (optional, for a spicy kick)
Juice of ½ lemon (for after roasting)
2 tbsp grated Parmesan or nutritional yeast (optional, for a savory finish)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
👩🍳 Instructions
- Preheat the oven:
Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
For ultimate crispiness, place the baking sheet in the oven while it preheats — a hot pan helps brown the cauliflower faster.
- Prep the cauliflower:
Wash and thoroughly dry the cauliflower florets (moisture = sogginess, so make sure they’re dry!).
In a large mixing bowl, combine olive oil, cornstarch, and all the seasonings: smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, turmeric, salt, pepper, and chili flakes.
Toss in the cauliflower florets and coat evenly — every piece should be lightly covered in the spice mixture.
- Roast until crispy:
Spread the cauliflower in a single layer on the hot baking sheet — don’t overcrowd (use 2 pans if needed).
Roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Cauliflower should be golden brown and crisp around the edges.
- Add the finishing touches:
Remove from the oven and immediately squeeze fresh lemon juice over the cauliflower.
Sprinkle with Parmesan (or nutritional yeast for a vegan version).
Toss gently and garnish with chopped parsley.
🌟 Optional Add-Ons
Buffalo Style: Toss roasted cauliflower in hot sauce + a drizzle of honey or maple syrup.
Garlic Butter: Melt 1 tbsp butter with minced garlic and toss before serving.
Asian-Inspired: Drizzle with soy sauce, sesame oil, and sprinkle sesame seeds.
⚡ Nutrition (per serving, approx.)
Calories: ~140
Protein: ~5g
Carbs: ~10g
Fat: ~8g
