Looking for a healthy and delicious side dish that packs a punch of flavor? Try this Crispy Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower! Enhanced with the rich taste of Parmesan cheese and the subtle kick of paprika, this roasted cauliflower is perfect as a side dish or a savory snack. Plus, it’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy!
Ingredients:
3-4 cups cauliflower florets
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons melted butter
Directions:
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature helps achieve that perfect crispy texture.
Coat the Cauliflower:
In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with melted butter until they are evenly coated. For best results, use a silicone pastry brush to ensure every piece gets a good layer of butter.
Add the Seasoning:
In the same bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, paprika, and black pepper. Sprinkle this mixture over the butter-coated cauliflower. Cover the bowl with a tight-fitting lid and gently toss to coat the florets evenly with the seasoning.
Arrange and Bake:
Spread the seasoned cauliflower in a single layer on a baking sheet sprayed with non-stick spray. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the edges of the cauliflower are golden and crispy.
Serve:
Enjoy your Crispy Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower hot from the oven. It’s perfect as a side dish for any meal or as a crunchy, flavorful snack.
Serving Tips:
Hot and Fresh: For the best texture and flavor, serve the cauliflower hot from the oven or air fryer. The crispy edges are at their peak when fresh.
Garnishes: Enhance the dish with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese, a squeeze of lemon juice, or fresh herbs like parsley or chives for added flavor and presentation.
Dips and Sauces: Pair with dipping sauces such as ranch, garlic aioli, or a zesty sriracha mayo for an extra burst of flavor.
Side Dish or Snack: This roasted cauliflower makes a great side dish for grilled meats, pasta dishes, or as a standalone snack.
Storage Tips:
Cool Completely: Allow the cauliflower to cool completely before storing to prevent condensation and sogginess.
Airtight Container: Store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness. You can keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: To regain crispiness, reheat in the oven or air fryer rather than the microwave. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 10 minutes, or air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.
Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the roasted cauliflower. Place it in a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to 2-3 months. Reheat directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
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FAQs:
Can I use frozen cauliflower for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen cauliflower, but for best results, thaw and pat it dry before roasting. Frozen cauliflower tends to release more moisture, which can affect the crispiness. Preheat the oven or air fryer and adjust the cooking time if needed to achieve the desired texture.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make a dairy-free version, substitute the Parmesan cheese with a dairy-free cheese alternative or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. You can also use olive oil instead of butter to coat the cauliflower.
Can I add other seasonings or vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with additional seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, or Italian seasoning. You can also add other vegetables such as bell peppers or carrots, but be sure to adjust cooking times as needed to ensure everything is evenly cooked.
How do I make the cauliflower extra crispy?
For extra crispiness, make sure the cauliflower florets are evenly coated with butter or oil, and spread them out in a single layer on the baking sheet or air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding, as this can trap steam and prevent crisping. Adding a light spray of oil before baking or air frying can also enhance the crispiness.
Conclusion:
This Crispy Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower is a flavorful, low-calorie option that’s sure to be a hit at your next meal. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or a special occasion feast, this recipe is simple, satisfying, and sure to impress. Enjoy!
📖 Recipe:
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Crispy Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Crispy Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower is a delightful side dish or snack, featuring perfectly roasted florets coated in a savory blend of Parmesan cheese and paprika. Enjoy the crispy, cheesy goodness as a flavorful addition to your meals or a healthy snack option.
Ingredients
3–4 cups cauliflower florets
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Coat the Cauliflower: Toss the cauliflower florets with melted butter in a large bowl until well coated.
- Add the Seasoning: Combine Parmesan cheese, paprika, and black pepper in the bowl. Sprinkle over the cauliflower and toss to coat evenly.
- Arrange and Bake: Spread cauliflower in a single layer on a baking sheet sprayed with non-stick spray. Bake for 20 minutes, or until edges are crispy.
- Serve: Enjoy hot from the oven.
Air Fryer Instructions:
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat to 390°F (200°C) for 3 minutes.
- Cook the Cauliflower: Spray the air fryer basket with olive oil, place cauliflower in a single layer, and cook for about 20 minutes, turning halfway if desired.
Notes
For a dairy-free version, use nutritional yeast or a dairy-free cheese substitute.
Ensure cauliflower is in a single layer to achieve maximum crispiness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish / Snack
- Method: Roasting / Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 120 kcal
