Are you ready to impress your dinner guests with a stunning centerpiece that’s as delicious as it is beautiful? Look no further than this Whole Roasted Spiced Cauliflower! Bursting with Middle Eastern flavors, this dish transforms an ordinary vegetable into a show-stopping masterpiece that will have everyone asking for seconds. With its crispy exterior and tender, flavorful interior, this roasted cauliflower is not just a side dish; it’s a celebration of taste and texture that will elevate any meal. Dive into our recipe and discover how easy it is to create this culinary delight that’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 whole cauliflower
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Ensure the oven rack is positioned in the center of the oven.
- Carefully remove any green leaves from the base of the cauliflower, keeping the core intact to hold the head together.
- Rinse the cauliflower thoroughly under cold water and pat completely dry with paper towels.
- In a small mixing bowl, combine olive oil, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Whisk together until well blended.
- Place the whole cauliflower on a cutting board and generously brush the entire surface with the prepared spice mixture, ensuring even coverage including all the crevices.
- Transfer the spiced cauliflower to a cast-iron skillet or roasting pan, positioning it stem-side down.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the exterior is deeply golden brown and crispy, and the inside is tender when pierced with a knife.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
- Carefully transfer to a serving platter and slice into wedges, garnishing with additional fresh herbs if desired.
Tips
- Choose the Right Cauliflower: Look for a cauliflower that is firm, with tightly packed florets and bright green leaves. Avoid any with brown spots or soft areas.
- Don’t Skip the Drying: After rinsing, make sure to thoroughly dry the cauliflower with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect crispy exterior.
- Spice It Up: Feel free to adjust the spices to suit your taste. Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper can give it a nice kick, or try adding garlic powder for an extra layer of flavor.
- Use a Cast-Iron Skillet: If you have one, a cast-iron skillet is ideal for roasting as it retains heat well and helps create a beautifully caramelized crust.
- Rest Before Serving: Allowing the cauliflower to rest for 5-10 minutes after roasting helps the juices redistribute, making each bite even more delicious.
- Garnish for Presentation: Consider garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro before serving. Not only does it add a pop of color, but it also enhances the flavor.
- Pairing Suggestions: This dish pairs wonderfully with a yogurt sauce or tahini drizzle for added creaminess and tang. Serve it alongside grains or salads for a complete meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 90kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
