Description
Spice-infused golden whole roasted cauliflower delivers Mediterranean magic on your plate, bringing robust flavors and elegant presentation to dinner. Simple ingredients and bold seasonings create a show-stopping vegetarian centerpiece you will savor with pure culinary delight.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables:
- 1 large head of cauliflower
Spices:
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
Oils and Garnish:
- 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare the cauliflower by removing outer leaves and trimming the stem to ensure a stable base.
- Fill a large pot with salted water and bring to a rolling boil. Carefully submerge the entire cauliflower head and blanch for 5 minutes to help tenderize and enhance flavor absorption.
- Drain the cauliflower completely and transfer to a clean kitchen towel, gently patting to remove excess moisture.
- Create a vibrant spice blend by whisking together olive oil, turmeric, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper in a small mixing bowl.
- Using a pastry brush, generously coat the entire cauliflower with the spice mixture, ensuring every nook and crevice is evenly covered for maximum flavor infusion.
- Select a baking dish that allows the cauliflower to sit comfortably without touching the sides, then place it in the preheated oven.
- Roast for 35-40 minutes, rotating the dish midway to promote even browning and achieve a crispy, golden exterior with a tender, succulent interior.
- Once done, remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes to allow flavors to settle and intense heat to dissipate.
- Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the roasted cauliflower for a bright, herbaceous finish before presenting to eager diners.
Notes
- Blanching softens the cauliflower and helps it cook evenly, creating a tender interior with a crispy exterior.
- Choose a fresh, firm cauliflower head without brown spots or discoloration for the best roasting results.
- Adjust cooking time based on the size of your cauliflower – larger heads might need extra minutes to become golden and tender.
- Transform this dish into a gluten-free, vegan, and low-carb meal that suits multiple dietary preferences.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Appetizer
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 9 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg