Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into florets (about 8 cups)
Seasonings & Oils
- 3 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 1/2 tsp. paprika
- 3/4 tsp. kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp. cracked black pepper
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
Cheese & Garnish
- 2 to 3 Tbsp. grated Parmesan cheese
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- 2 Tbsp. finely chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Place a large rimmed baking sheet on the center rack of the oven and preheat the oven to 450ºF (232ºC). This ensures the baking sheet is hot and helps to roast the cauliflower evenly with a nice char.
- Prepare Cauliflower: Cut the cauliflower into small florets, about 8 cups in total, and add them to a large mixing bowl. Toss the florets with extra-virgin olive oil, paprika, kosher salt, and cracked black pepper to coat them evenly with the seasoning.
- Roast Cauliflower: Spread the seasoned cauliflower florets in a single layer on the preheated baking sheet, making sure not to overcrowd so they roast properly. Roast for 20 to 25 minutes, tossing the florets once midway through the cooking time to ensure even browning and tenderness. The florets should be lightly charred and cooked through.
- Add Cheese and Garlic: After the initial roasting, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese and minced garlic evenly over the cauliflower. Return the baking sheet to the oven and roast for an additional 5 minutes. This step allows the cheese to melt slightly and the garlic to become fragrant.
- Finish and Serve: Once roasted, spritz fresh lemon juice over the cauliflower and garnish with finely chopped fresh parsley. Toss everything gently to distribute the flavors and serve warm as a delicious side dish.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days to maintain freshness.
- To reheat and preserve the crisp texture, warm the cauliflower in an air fryer or oven preheated to 350ºF until hot.
- If reheating in a microwave, expect a softer texture as the moisture will increase.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free, Vegetarian