Crispy Roasted Cauliflower

By Daily Recipes - décembre 09, 2025

Crispy Roasted Cauliflower: A Perfectly Golden, Flavor-Packed Side Dish

Cauliflower, often underrated, transforms into a crispy, flavorful delight when roasted to perfection. This versatile vegetable can be a healthy snack, a side dish, or even the centerpiece of a meal. Roasting brings out its natural sweetness and develops a satisfying crunch, making it a favorite even among those who aren’t typically fans of vegetables. Here’s a step-by-step guide to mastering Crispy Roasted Cauliflower.

Ingredients

1 medium head of cauliflower
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
½ teaspoon ground cumin (optional for extra depth)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish

Step-by-Step Method

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). A hot oven is essential to achieve the golden, crispy edges that make this dish irresistible. While the oven heats, line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Wash and Chop the Cauliflower

Remove the green leaves and cut the cauliflower into bite-sized florets. Try to make them uniform in size to ensure even cooking. Rinse thoroughly under cold water and pat dry with a kitchen towel. Removing excess moisture is crucial for crispiness.

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Step 3: Season the Cauliflower

Place the florets in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle olive oil over them and sprinkle garlic powder, paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Toss the florets thoroughly to ensure every piece is evenly coated with oil and spices.

Pro Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, you can also marinate the cauliflower for 15–20 minutes before roasting.

Step 4: Arrange on the Baking Sheet

Spread the cauliflower florets in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding, as this traps steam and prevents crisping.

Step 5: Roast in the Oven

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping the florets halfway through. The cauliflower is done when the edges are golden brown and crispy, and the florets are tender when pierced with a fork.

Step 6: Optional Cheese Finish

For a cheesy touch, sprinkle grated Parmesan over the hot cauliflower immediately after removing it from the oven. The residual heat will melt the cheese slightly, creating a savory, crispy coating.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Transfer the roasted cauliflower to a serving dish. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro for color and freshness. Serve warm as a side dish with your favorite main course, or enjoy it as a healthy snack.

Tips for Extra Crispy Cauliflower

High Heat: Roasting at 425°F (220°C) ensures a crisp exterior.
Minimal Moisture: Dry the florets completely to avoid soggy results.
Single Layer: Overcrowding causes steaming rather than roasting.
Experiment with Spices: Try curry powder, chili flakes, or Italian herbs for different flavor profiles.
Broil at the End: For an extra crunch, broil the cauliflower for 2–3 minutes at the end, keeping a close eye to avoid burning.

Crispy roasted cauliflower is not just a side dish—it’s a celebration of flavor and texture. With this simple, step-by-step method, you can enjoy a golden, crunchy vegetable that’s healthy, satisfying, and utterly delicious.

If you want, I can also create a spicy garlic version that makes it taste even more like restaurant-style roasted cauliflower. Do you want me to do that?

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