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Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cauliflower:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Remove the outer leaves of the cauliflower and trim the stem so that it can sit flat. Rinse the cauliflower thoroughly and pat dry with a towel.
2. Season the Cauliflower:
Place the cauliflower head on a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Drizzle olive oil (or melted butter) evenly over the cauliflower, making sure to coat it well. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Rub the seasoning into the cauliflower for an even coating.
3. Roast the Cauliflower:
Cover the cauliflower loosely with foil and roast it in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes. After this time, remove the foil, and continue roasting for another 15-20 minutes, or until the cauliflower is golden brown and tender when pierced with a fork. The outer edges should be crispy, and the inside should be soft and cooked through.
4. Make the Butter Sauce:
While the cauliflower is roasting, prepare the butter sauce. In a small saucepan, melt unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the garlic is fragrant. Remove from heat and stir in the fresh parsley, lemon zest, and Parmesan cheese (if using). Adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper if necessary.
5. Serve:
Once the cauliflower is perfectly roasted, remove it from the oven. Place the cauliflower on a serving platter and drizzle the prepared butter sauce generously over the top. Garnish with additional parsley if desired. For an extra touch, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the cauliflower to add a burst of citrusy brightness.
Tips for Perfecting Your Whole Roasted Cauliflower:
- Roasting Time: The roasting time can vary depending on the size of the cauliflower. Larger heads may require a little longer to cook, so check the tenderness with a fork before removing from the oven.
- Flavor Variations: Feel free to experiment with the seasoning. Try adding a pinch of cumin, turmeric, or chili flakes for a different flavor profile. Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can also enhance the taste.
- Butter Sauce Variations: You can add a bit of honey to the butter sauce for a sweet and savory twist. For a more decadent version, try adding a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese to make the sauce extra creamy.
- Make It Vegan: To make this dish vegan, simply swap the butter for vegan butter or olive oil. Skip the Parmesan cheese or opt for a vegan cheese alternative.
- Serve as a Main or Side: This roasted cauliflower works well as a hearty side dish for meats like roasted chicken or steak, but it can also serve as a main vegetarian dish when paired with a simple grain like quinoa or couscous.
Why This Recipe is a Must-Try:
Whole Roasted Cauliflower with Butter Sauce is an easy yet impressive dish that takes a simple vegetable and elevates it to something extraordinary. With its crispy exterior, tender interior, and rich, flavorful butter sauce, this dish is perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a holiday feast. It’s the kind of dish that looks complicated but is incredibly simple to make, and the results are always stunning.
Whether you’re a cauliflower lover or a first-timer, this roasted cauliflower recipe is sure to become a new favorite. Give it a try and watch it disappear from the table in no time!
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