Parmesan Lemon Roasted Cauliflower

If you’re searching for a tasty and healthy side dish, look no further than Parmesan Lemon Roasted Cauliflower. This simple yet flavorful recipe will surely become a new favorite in your kitchen. The combination of tangy lemon and savory Parmesan cheese adds a delightful twist to this versatile vegetable.

To make this dish, start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C) and preparing a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Then, cut a head of cauliflower into bite-sized florets and place them in a large bowl. In a separate small bowl, mix together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.

Next, pour the olive oil mixture over the cauliflower florets and toss until they are evenly coated. Spread the cauliflower in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring that the florets don’t overlap. This will allow them to roast evenly and become nicely browned.

Once the oven is preheated, place the baking sheet in the oven and roast the cauliflower for about 25-30 minutes or until it is tender and golden brown. During the last few minutes of roasting, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the cauliflower and return it to the oven to melt. This will create a deliciously crispy and cheesy topping that elevates the flavor of the dish.

When the cauliflower is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly. Serve it as a side dish alongside your favorite protein or as a healthy snack. The Parmesan Lemon Roasted Cauliflower is not only tasty and easy to make, but it is also packed with nutrients, making it a great addition to any balanced diet.

Ingredients

1. Cauliflower:

The star ingredient of this recipe is cauliflower. Choose a fresh head of cauliflower and cut it into florets of equal size for even cooking.

2. Parmesan Cheese:

The addition of Parmesan cheese brings a rich and savory flavor to the roasted cauliflower. Grate the Parmesan cheese finely to evenly distribute its flavor throughout the dish.

3. Lemon:

Lemon adds a refreshing and tangy taste to the roasted cauliflower. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the cauliflower before roasting, and grate the lemon zest to enhance the citrus flavor.

4. Olive Oil:

Olive oil is used to coat the cauliflower florets before roasting, helping to crisp up the edges and create a delicious golden brown color on the outside.

5. Garlic:

Garlic cloves are minced and added to the cauliflower for extra flavor. The garlic infuses the cauliflower with its aromatic and savory taste.

6. Salt and Pepper:

To season the roasted cauliflower, you will need salt and pepper. These basic seasonings help to enhance the natural flavors of the cauliflower and bring balance to the dish.

7. Fresh Herbs (Optional):

If desired, you can add some fresh herbs such as parsley, thyme, or rosemary to the roasted cauliflower for additional aroma and flavor.

With these simple and flavorful ingredients, you can easily whip up a delicious batch of Parmesan Lemon Roasted Cauliflower that is sure to impress.

Instructions

To make Parmesan Lemon Roasted Cauliflower, follow these simple steps:

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the cauliflower florets, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Toss until the cauliflower is evenly coated with the mixture.
3. Spread the cauliflower in a single layer on a baking sheet. Make sure the florets have some space between them to ensure even roasting.
4. Roast the cauliflower in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until it turns golden brown and becomes tender. Make sure to toss the cauliflower halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning.
5. While the cauliflower is roasting, prepare the Parmesan topping. In a small bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, fresh parsley, lemon zest, and breadcrumbs.
6. After the cauliflower is roasted, remove it from the oven and sprinkle the Parmesan topping evenly over the cauliflower.
7. Return the baking sheet to the oven and roast for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and the topping is crispy.
8. Remove the baked Parmesan Lemon Roasted Cauliflower from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

This flavorful and nutritious side dish is perfect for serving alongside your favorite main course. Enjoy!

Serving Suggestions

1. As a side dish: This roasted cauliflower recipe pairs well with a variety of main dishes. Serve it alongside grilled chicken, roasted salmon, or a juicy steak for a complete and flavorful meal. The tangy and nutty flavors of the Parmesan and lemon complement the richness of these protein options perfectly.

2. In a salad: Turn this roasted cauliflower into a hearty salad by adding some fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumber, and a lemony vinaigrette. The roasted cauliflower will add a satisfying crunch and depth of flavor to the salad, making it a satisfying and nourishing meal on its own or as a side dish.

3. As a vegetarian main: If you’re looking for a vegetarian or vegan main dish option, consider serving this Parmesan Lemon Roasted Cauliflower as the star of the show. Add some protein-rich ingredients like chickpeas, tofu, or quinoa to make it more substantial. Sprinkle some toasted nuts or seeds on top for added crunch and texture.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also try incorporating the roasted cauliflower into other creative dishes like a cauliflower “steak” sandwich, a cauliflower bowl with various toppings and sauces, or even as a pizza topping. The possibilities are endless, and the Parmesan Lemon Roasted Cauliflower can be a versatile and delicious addition to any meal!

High in Nutrients

Cauliflower is an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, and folate. Vitamin C is an antioxidant that can boost your immune system and protect your cells from damage. Potassium is essential for maintaining healthy blood pressure levels, while folate is crucial for cell growth and development.

• Vitamin C: Helps boost the immune system and protect against oxidative stress.
• Potassium: Important for maintaining healthy blood pressure levels.
• Folate: Essential for cell growth and development.

In addition to its vitamin and mineral content, cauliflower is also a good source of dietary fiber. Fiber is important for digestion and can help prevent constipation. It also helps to keep you feeling full and satisfied, which can aid in weight management.

Overall, the Parmesan Lemon Roasted Cauliflower dish is a nutritious and flavorful way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet. It provides a range of essential vitamins and minerals, as well as dietary fiber, all of which contribute to overall health and well-being.