Description
This golden, crispy roasted cauliflower is packed with flavor and irresistible crunch. Perfect as a side dish or a hearty main course substitute, it’s a veggie-forward dish that’s as satisfying as it is simple.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 head cauliflower, cut into florets
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (for extra crispiness)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional but adds great flavor)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for a spicy kick)
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Juice of 1/2 lemon (for serving)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Prepare the cauliflower: In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with olive oil until well coated.
- Season and coat: In a separate bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne (if using). Sprinkle this mixture over the cauliflower and toss until evenly coated.
- Bake until crispy: Spread the cauliflower florets in a single layer on the baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and crispy.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.
Notes
- Want it vegan? Skip the Parmesan or use a dairy-free alternative.
- Serve it over grains, in wraps, or alongside a dipping sauce like garlic aioli or tahini.
- For extra crispiness, broil for the last 2–3 minutes—just keep a close eye!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish, Main Course
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American, Mediterranean-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 310mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 2mg
Keywords: crispy roasted cauliflower, easy roasted cauliflower, vegetarian side dish, cauliflower recipe, panko cauliflower, oven roasted cauliflower, healthy veggie sides