Ingredients
Roasted Cauliflower
- 1 head cauliflower, cut into florets
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 cups plain hummus
Chili Herb Oil
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh herbs (cilantro, dill, parsley)
- 1 clove garlic, grated
- 1/2 - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 - 1 teaspoon chili flakes
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
- 2 teaspoons lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon honey
Instructions
- Roast the Cauliflower: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). On a baking sheet, toss the cauliflower florets with olive oil, smoked paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, and a pinch each of kosher salt and black pepper. Spread them out evenly. Roast in the preheated oven for 20 minutes until the cauliflower is tender, then toss and roast for an additional 10 minutes until nicely charred and crispy on the edges.
- Prepare the Chili Herb Oil: While the cauliflower roasts, combine the chopped fresh herbs, grated garlic, smoked paprika, chili flakes, sesame seeds, lemon zest, and honey in a heat-proof bowl. Heat the extra virgin olive oil in a skillet over medium heat until it begins to sizzle and infuse with the spices, about 5 minutes. Carefully pour the hot oil over the herb and spice mixture, stirring to combine thoroughly.
- Assemble and Serve: Spread the plain hummus evenly in a shallow serving bowl. Arrange the roasted cauliflower over the hummus. Drizzle generously with the prepared chili herb oil. Serve immediately with warm pita bread or your choice of chips for dipping.
Notes
- Adjust the amount of chili flakes and chili powder to suit your preferred spice level.
- If fresh herbs are not available, you can substitute with dried herbs, but use less as they are more concentrated.
- Honey can be substituted with agave syrup to keep the dish vegan-friendly.
- This recipe is best served fresh, but leftover components (except the oil) can be stored separately in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- For a nuttier flavor, consider toasting the sesame seeds lightly before adding them to the herb oil.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
