Parmesan Pesto Roasted Cauliflower

Name: Parmesan Pesto Roasted Cauliflower
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-486568H22M13S
Total time: PT-486568H22M13S
Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Ingredients: 1 head of cauliflower, cut into florets; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1/4 cup basil pesto; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

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Looking for a flavorful and nutritious side dish or vegetarian main course? Try our Parmesan Pesto Roasted Cauliflower recipe! This dish combines the earthy flavor of cauliflower with the rich taste of basil pesto and Parmesan cheese, all roasted to golden perfection. Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients:

1 head of cauliflower, cut into florets

2 tablespoons olive oil

Salt and pepper, to taste

1/4 cup basil pesto

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions:

Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Prepare Cauliflower: Spread the cauliflower florets evenly on a large baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper. Toss the cauliflower to coat evenly with the oil and seasoning.

Roast Cauliflower: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender and the edges are golden brown. Toss the cauliflower halfway through cooking for even browning.

Coat with Pesto: Once the cauliflower is roasted to perfection, transfer it to a large bowl. Add the basil pesto and toss the cauliflower gently until each piece is coated with the flavorful pesto.

Add Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the cauliflower and toss again lightly to combine. The cheese will melt slightly from the warmth of the roasted cauliflower.

Serve: Transfer the Parmesan Pesto Roasted Cauliflower to a serving dish and serve it hot. It’s ready to enjoy as a delightful side dish or as a satisfying vegetarian main course.

Serving Tips:

Serve Hot: Enjoy the Parmesan Pesto Roasted Cauliflower immediately after preparing it for the best flavor and texture.

Garnish Options: Sprinkle additional grated Parmesan cheese or fresh chopped herbs like basil or parsley on top just before serving for an extra burst of flavor and presentation.

Pairings: This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, fish, or as a side to pasta dishes. It also makes a great addition to vegetarian platters or as part of a mezze-style spread.

Presentation: Serve the cauliflower in a decorative dish to showcase its golden-brown color and sprinkle a few whole basil leaves on top for a restaurant-style presentation.

Storage Tips:

Refrigeration: If you have leftovers, allow the Parmesan Pesto Roasted Cauliflower to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating: To reheat, place the cauliflower on a baking sheet and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. This helps maintain its crispiness and flavors.

Freezing: While roasted cauliflower can be frozen, the texture may change slightly upon thawing. If freezing, store in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Meal Prep: Consider preparing a larger batch and portioning it into meal-sized containers for quick and convenient lunches or dinners throughout the week. Simply reheat as needed.

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FAQs:

Can I use store-bought pesto for this recipe?

Yes, absolutely! Store-bought basil pesto works well and saves time. Alternatively, you can make your own pesto for a fresher flavor.

How do I ensure the cauliflower cooks evenly?

To ensure even cooking, spread the cauliflower florets in a single layer on the baking sheet. Toss them halfway through roasting to ensure all sides get crispy and golden brown.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the cauliflower ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat in the oven before serving to restore its crispy texture.

What can I serve with Parmesan Pesto Roasted Cauliflower?

This dish pairs well with grilled meats like chicken or steak. It also complements pasta dishes, risotto, or as a side to seafood. For a vegetarian option, serve with quinoa or couscous.

Conclusion:

This Parmesan Pesto Roasted Cauliflower recipe is not only easy to make but also bursting with savory flavors that will impress your family and guests. Whether you’re planning a cozy dinner or a festive gathering, this dish is sure to be a hit. Try it out and savor the deliciousness!

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