Description

Whole Roasted Cauliflower is a stunning dish that transforms a simple vegetable into a breathtaking centerpiece for any meal. With a crispy, golden garlic butter crust enveloping a tender interior, this recipe is perfect for impressing your guests at holiday gatherings or family dinners. The combination of rich flavors and elegant presentation makes it an ideal vegetarian side dish that complements a variety of cuisines. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare with just a handful of ingredients. Delight in the savory taste and beautiful appearance of Whole Roasted Cauliflower, elevating your dining experience effortlessly.

Ingredients

Scale

1 large head cauliflower (about 2–3 pounds)
6 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
4 large garlic cloves (finely minced)
1 1/2 teaspoons sea salt
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper (optional)
1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons fresh herbs (parsley, thyme, or chives)
Flaky sea salt for finishing
Extra virgin olive oil for drizzling

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 400°F.
Prepare the cauliflower by removing leaves and trimming the stem.
In a bowl, mix softened butter, minced garlic, sea salt, smoked paprika, and black pepper.
Coat the cauliflower thoroughly with the garlic butter mixture.
Place in a cast-iron skillet and cover loosely with aluminum foil; roast for 40-45 minutes.
Uncover, baste with pan drippings, reduce heat to 375°F, and continue roasting for another 20-25 minutes.
Add Parmesan cheese and roast until golden brown (5-10 minutes).
Let rest before serving; garnish with fresh herbs.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 70 minutes
Category: Vegetarian Side Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Various

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/8 of the whole cauliflower (approx. 250g)
Calories: 270
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 700mg
Fat: 21g
Saturated Fat: 13g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 16g
Fiber: 6g
Protein: 7g
Cholesterol: 35mg