If you are craving a dish that combines simplicity with bold flavor, this Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower will quickly become one of your favorites. Roasted to golden perfection with fresh thyme and tender onion slices, every bite bursts with a perfect balance of savory Parmesan, crispy edges, and tender florets. This easy-to-make side dish transforms humble cauliflower into a gourmet experience that will impress your family and friends alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward yet essential to bring out the full flavor and irresistible texture of the Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower. Each component plays a crucial role in creating a dish that is both vibrant and comforting.
- 2 heads cauliflower cut into florets: The star of the dish, providing the hearty yet delicate base to absorb all the flavors.
- 1 small onion sliced: Adds sweetness and depth to complement the nuttiness of the cauliflower.
- 4 sprigs thyme: Fresh herbaceous notes that elevate the dish dramatically.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil: Ensures perfect roasting and a silky texture with a subtle fruity richness.
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper: The essential seasoning to highlight every ingredient.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan: Delivers a sharp, savory punch and beautiful crispness when roasted.
How to Make Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 425° F to get the perfect heat level for roasting. This high temperature is key to achieving that delightful golden brown color and crispy texture on the cauliflower edges.
Step 2: Toss the Vegetables
On a large rimmed baking sheet, combine the cauliflower florets, sliced onion, fresh thyme sprigs, and three tablespoons of olive oil. Generously season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Toss everything together so the olive oil and seasoning coat every piece evenly, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor.
Step 3: Roast Until Golden
Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast for about 30 to 40 minutes. Be sure to toss the cauliflower occasionally during roasting to help it brown evenly on all sides, developing that signature crispy exterior that contrasts beautifully with the tender insides.
Step 4: Add Parmesan and Finish Roasting
About 10 minutes before the cauliflower is finished, sprinkle the grated Parmesan over the top. Toss gently to combine so the cheese melts and adheres, then continue roasting until the cauliflower is irresistibly tender and the Parmesan has toasted to a lovely golden color.
How to Serve Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower
Garnishes
To really elevate your Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower, consider a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice for a bright contrast. A dash of red pepper flakes can also add a delightful kick if you’re feeling adventurous.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with roasted proteins like chicken, and it’s equally wonderful alongside a fresh green salad or creamy mashed potatoes. It can serve as the perfect vegetable side to complete any comforting meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower as a warm salad tossed with toasted nuts or dried cranberries. You can also turn it into a hearty grain bowl component or even crisp it up a bit more and add it as a crunchy topping for soups or pastas.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors in the Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower meld beautifully overnight and make for a fantastic next-day side or snack.
Freezing
While fresh roasting is best for texture, you can freeze the cooked cauliflower by laying it flat on a baking sheet first to freeze individually, then transferring to a freezer bag. This helps preserve the shape and flavor, though the texture might soften a bit upon thawing.
Reheating
To reheat, it’s best to use the oven to bring back some crispiness. Spread the cauliflower on a baking sheet and warm at 375° F for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and edges are slightly crisp again. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the texture intact.
FAQs
Can I use pre-grated Parmesan for this recipe?
Absolutely! Pre-grated Parmesan works just fine and is very convenient. Just make sure to use a good-quality Parmesan for the best flavor.
Is Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower suitable for low-carb diets?
Yes, cauliflower is naturally low in carbs and the Parmesan adds protein and fat, making this dish a great option for those following low-carb or keto diets.
Can I substitute thyme with other herbs?
Definitely. Rosemary, oregano, or even sage can bring different but equally delicious flavors to the dish. Fresh herbs will always yield the best results.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of smoked paprika to the seasoning before roasting for a spicy kick that complements the nutty Parmesan very well.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower is naturally gluten-free as long as you use Parmesan that does not contain any gluten additives.
Final Thoughts
This Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower is a true winner—simple, flavorful, and packed with personality. Once you try it, it’s sure to become a staple side dish in your cooking repertoire. So go ahead, roast up a batch and enjoy every crispy, cheesy, tender bite as if you’re sharing a secret family recipe with your best friend.
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Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower recipe delivers a flavorful and crispy vegetable side dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any meal. Cauliflower florets are roasted with aromatic thyme and onion, then finished with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, creating a delightful combination of textures and savory flavors.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 2 heads cauliflower, cut into florets
- 1 small onion, sliced
- 4 sprigs thyme
Seasonings and Oil
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure it’s hot enough to roast the cauliflower and achieve a golden, crispy texture.
- Prepare the cauliflower and aromatics: In a large rimmed baking sheet, toss the cauliflower florets together with sliced onion, thyme sprigs, olive oil, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Make sure everything is evenly coated with oil and seasonings for balanced flavor.
- Roast the cauliflower: Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast for 30-40 minutes. During this time, toss the cauliflower occasionally to promote even browning and to ensure the edges become golden brown and slightly crisp.
- Add Parmesan cheese: About 10 minutes before the cauliflower finishes roasting, sprinkle the grated Parmesan over the florets. Toss gently to combine the cheese with the cauliflower and continue roasting until the cauliflower is tender and the cheese is melted and slightly browned.
- Serve: Remove the cauliflower from the oven, discard the thyme sprigs, and transfer to a serving dish. Serve warm as a delicious side for any meal.
Notes
- You can substitute fresh thyme with dried thyme if needed, but reduce the quantity by half.
- For extra crispiness, spread the florets in a single layer without overcrowding the baking sheet.
- Feel free to add garlic or red pepper flakes for an additional flavor kick.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and melting quality.
- This dish pairs well with roasted meats, pasta, or as a standalone vegetarian option.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 12mg
