🥦🔥 Whole Roasted Cauliflower (Oven-Baked)
🧾 Ingredients:
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1 medium to large head of cauliflower, leaves trimmed, stem cut flat
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3 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
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1 tsp salt
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½ tsp black pepper
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1 tsp garlic powder
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1 tsp paprika or smoked paprika
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Optional: 1 tsp curry powder or za’atar for a spiced version
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Optional: Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs for garnish
🔪 Instructions:
1. Preheat oven:
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Set to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prep the cauliflower:
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Remove outer leaves and trim the stem so the cauliflower sits flat.
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Rinse and pat dry thoroughly (this helps it roast, not steam).
3. Season:
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In a small bowl, mix olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
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Rub the mixture all over the cauliflower — top, sides, and underside. Use your hands or a brush.
4. Roast:
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Place cauliflower in a cast iron skillet or oven-safe baking dish.
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Cover loosely with foil and roast for 30 minutes.
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Uncover and roast for another 30–40 minutes, until golden brown and fork-tender in the center.
🍽️ Tip: Baste with the pan juices halfway through for extra flavor.
5. Serve:
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Let rest 5 minutes.
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Slice into wedges or break apart into florets.
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Garnish with Parmesan, herbs, or a squeeze of lemon juice.
🥣 Optional Sauce Ideas:
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Garlic yogurt sauce: Greek yogurt + garlic + lemon juice + olive oil
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Tahini drizzle: Tahini + lemon juice + warm water + cumin
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Cheese sauce: Melted cheddar + cream + pinch of mustard
📝 Variations:
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Coat in buffalo sauce before roasting for heat.
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Top with toasted breadcrumbs for crunch.
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Add roasted chickpeas around the base for protein.
Would you like a stuffed version, air fryer method, or a vegan cheese-coated twist?
