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Whole Roasted Cauliflower Recipe

4.6 from 103 reviews

A whole roasted cauliflower recipe featuring a perfectly seasoned head of cauliflower roasted until tender and golden, delivering a flavorful and impressive vegetarian main or side dish.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables

  • 1 whole cauliflower, washed and trimmed

Seasoning and Oils

  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) and allow it to fully heat to ensure a perfect roast.
  2. Prepare the cauliflower: Remove the leaves and trim the stem so the cauliflower can sit flat. Rinse and pat dry.
  3. Season the cauliflower: In a small bowl, mix minced garlic, olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture evenly all over the cauliflower, making sure to get into the crevices for full flavor.
  4. Roast: Place the cauliflower on a baking sheet lined with parchment. Roast in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender when pierced with a fork and has a beautiful golden crust.
  5. Serve: Let it cool slightly before slicing or pulling apart the florets. Serve warm as an impressive vegetarian entree or side dish.

Notes

  • Use a sharp knife to trim the stem so the cauliflower sits evenly on the baking sheet.
  • Feel free to swap spices to your preference, such as adding turmeric or chili powder for extra flavor and color.
  • Check tenderness by inserting a fork into the thickest part of the cauliflower; it should be soft but not mushy.
  • Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently.

Keywords: roasted cauliflower, whole cauliflower, vegetarian, gluten free, easy side dish, healthy roast