Whole roasted cauliflower is a visually impressive and flavorful dish that is simple to prepare and works well as a side or main course. Here are key points and a basic method to make it:
Basic Preparation and Cooking Method
- Preheat the oven (typically around 375°F to 400°F).
- Trim the cauliflower by removing the outer leaves and trimming the stem so it can sit flat.
- Rinse and dry the cauliflower head.
- Rub the entire cauliflower with a fat such as softened butter or olive oil, seasoned with garlic, salt, paprika, or other spices.
- Place the cauliflower in an oven-safe skillet or baking pan with sides.
- Cover loosely with foil and bake for about 40-50 minutes until tender inside.
- Remove the foil, baste with melted butter or oil from the pan, and optionally sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, herbs like chives, or other toppings.
- Roast uncovered for an additional 15 minutes or until golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- For extra crispness, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end, watching carefully to avoid burning
Variations and Serving Ideas
- Some recipes keep it simple with just olive oil and salt, allowing the cauliflower to be a blank slate for sauces like pesto, tahini, or lemony whipped feta
- Flavorful compound butters with garlic and paprika add richness and depth
- Spices like turmeric and saffron can be infused by boiling the cauliflower briefly before roasting, then serving with yogurt-feta sauce and pomegranate molasses for a Mediterranean twist
- Harissa and other spice blends can be mixed with olive oil and brushed on before roasting for a spicy, aromatic dish
- The dish is suitable for vegan, keto, and Whole30 diets depending on the fat and toppings used
Tips for Success
- Use softened (not melted) butter for easy spreading.
- Use your hands to rub the butter or oil mixture evenly over the cauliflower.
- Check tenderness by piercing the center with a cake tester or knife; it should go through without resistance.
- Broil briefly at the end for a nicely charred crust
Whole roasted cauliflower is a budget-friendly, simple, and elegant dish that can be customized with various seasonings and sauces to suit different tastes and occasions
