This Mediterranean Roasted Cauliflower Recipe is healthy, gluten-free, and absolutely delicious! Marinated in lemon juice, balsamic vinegar, and spices, it is a quick and easy vegetable side dish - you basically just throw the cauliflower onto a sheet pan, and it is ready to bake.
What is great about Mediterranean Roasted Cauliflower?
Flavorful Taste: Roasting cauliflower brings out its natural sweetness and imparts a slightly nutty flavor. Mediterranean cuisine incorporates herbs and spices like garlic, oregano, thyme, and paprika, which enhance the taste profile, making it rich and aromatic.
Nutritional Value: Cauliflower is a nutrient-dense vegetable, and roasting it preserves many of its health benefits. It is an excellent source of vitamins C and K, as well as dietary fiber. Additionally, cauliflower is low in calories and carbohydrates, making it suitable for various dietary preferences.
Versatility: Mediterranean roasted cauliflower can be enjoyed as a standalone dish or used as a versatile ingredient in different recipes. It works well as a side dish, appetizer, or even as a main course. You can add it to salads, grain bowls, wraps, or serve it alongside meats, fish, or pasta.
Plant-Based Option: Roasted cauliflower is a popular choice among vegans and vegetarians as it provides a satisfying and flavorful alternative to meat-based dishes. Its robust texture and ability to absorb flavors make it a suitable substitute in Mediterranean-inspired plant-based recipes.
Mediterranean Gourmet Tips:
Typically roasted cauliflower takes about 15-20 minutes at 425 degrees F. But cook more or less depending on how crunchy or soft you like your veggies, and how big your florets have been cut.
Preheat the oven: It's important to preheat your oven to a high temperature, around 425°F (220°C). This ensures the cauliflower gets properly roasted and caramelized.
Cut the cauliflower into even florets: Slice the cauliflower into similar-sized florets to ensure they cook evenly. This will result in a consistent texture and flavor throughout.
Toss with olive oil and seasonings: Drizzle the cauliflower florets with extra virgin olive oil, ensuring they are well-coated. Then, season with Mediterranean-inspired herbs and spices like garlic powder, oregano, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Adjust the quantities to your taste preference.
Add lemon zest and juice: For an extra burst of Mediterranean flavor, grate some lemon zest over the cauliflower before roasting. Squeeze fresh lemon juice on top after roasting to brighten the flavors.
Mediterranean Roasted Cauliflower
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
1 head cauliflower, cut into florets
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
Spice Mix:
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional:
Shredded Parmesan, Romano, or Pecorino cheese
2 tablespoons of Italian spice blend instead of the individual spice mix
Parsley for garnish
Directions:
1. Mix all the ingredients together, cover, marinate for at least 30 minutes (2 hours ideal), and bake at 425 °F for 15-20 minutes.
2. Sprinkle with plenty of Parmesan cheese and parsley.
Enjoy!
Suggested Pairing
Pair this dish with a Sauvignon Blanc, specifically from the Loire Valley. The crisp acidity in the wine will cut through the tangy lemon.
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