Ingredients
1 medium head of cauliflower
Olive oil
Salt and black pepper
Paprika or smoked paprika
Garlic powder
Optional: grated Parmesan cheese, chili flakes, or fresh herbs for garnish
Instructions
Start by preheating your oven and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Preheating ensures even cooking and the perfect crispiness.
Wash the cauliflower thoroughly and pat it dry. Removing excess moisture helps achieve a crispy texture when roasting.
Cut the cauliflower into small florets. Try to keep them evenly sized to ensure uniform cooking. Larger pieces might take longer to cook, while smaller ones can crisp up more quickly.
In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with olive oil, ensuring each piece is well-coated. This helps the seasonings stick and promotes browning during roasting.
Sprinkle salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika over the florets, mixing well to distribute the seasonings evenly. Add Parmesan cheese or chili flakes at this stage if you prefer extra flavor.
Spread the seasoned cauliflower in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure the pieces aren’t crowded, as this allows the hot air to circulate and crisp them up properly.
Roast the cauliflower until the edges are golden brown and crispy. Flip the pieces halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning on all sides.
How to Make
Begin by selecting a fresh head of cauliflower. Look for a firm, white cauliflower with no dark spots or blemishes for the best results.
Wash and dry the cauliflower thoroughly. Water on the florets can prevent them from crisping up during roasting, so pat them completely dry with a kitchen towel.
Cut the cauliflower into bite-sized florets. Keeping the pieces uniform ensures they roast evenly and develop a consistent texture.
Place the florets in a large mixing bowl and drizzle with olive oil. Use your hands or a spatula to toss the cauliflower, making sure every piece is coated.
Season the florets with your choice of spices. Paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper are classic choices, but you can experiment with curry powder, Italian seasoning, or cumin for variety.
