Crispy Roasted Cauliflower Recipe
Crispy Roasted Cauliflower is a delicious and healthy side dish made by roasting cauliflower florets coated in olive oil, seasoned with smoked paprika and garlic powder, then coated with crunchy panko breadcrumbs and optional Parmesan cheese. This easy recipe yields a golden, crispy texture perfect for snacks or accompaniments.
- Author: Leo
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Vegetables
- 1 head Cauliflower, cut into florets
Seasonings & Coating
- 3 tablespoons Olive oil
- 1/2 cup Panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup Grated Parmesan cheese (optional; omit for vegan version)
- 1 teaspoon Smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and prepare a large baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Cauliflower: Wash and thoroughly dry the cauliflower head. Cut it into medium-sized florets to ensure even cooking and crispy texture.
- Season Cauliflower: Place the cauliflower florets in a large bowl and toss with olive oil until evenly coated. Sprinkle smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper over the florets, mixing well to distribute the spices thoroughly.
- Add Coating: Add the panko breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese (if using) to the bowl. Toss until each floret is well covered with the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring even crispiness once roasted.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Spread the coated florets in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, making sure there is space between them to allow air circulation for optimal roasting.
- Roast Cauliflower: Place the baking sheet into the preheated oven and roast for 20-25 minutes. Flip the florets once halfway through cooking to achieve an evenly golden and crispy texture all around.
- Serve: Remove the roasted cauliflower from the oven and let it cool slightly. Serve hot as a snack, side dish, or part of a larger meal spread and enjoy the crispy, flavorful bites!
Notes
- For a vegan version, omit the Parmesan cheese and consider adding nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
- Make sure the cauliflower is dry before coating to help the breadcrumbs stick better.
- Using panko breadcrumbs adds extra crispiness compared to regular breadcrumbs.
- Adjust seasoning salt and pepper according to taste.
- Flipping halfway ensures even browning and crispiness on all sides.
Keywords: Crispy roasted cauliflower, baked cauliflower, vegetarian side dish, healthy snack, panko breadcrumb cauliflower, easy roasted vegetables