Description

This Crispy Roasted Cauliflower recipe offers a deliciously crunchy and flavorful way to enjoy cauliflower. Coated with a blend of olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and a crispy layer of panko breadcrumbs combined with Parmesan cheese, this dish is roasted to golden perfection. Perfect as a snack, side dish, or appetizer, it’s easy to prepare and packed with texture and savory taste.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

1 head Cauliflower, cut into florets
3 tablespoons Olive oil
1 teaspoon Smoked paprika
1 teaspoon Garlic powder
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste

Crispy Coating

1/2 cup Panko breadcrumbs
1/4 cup Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

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Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking and help with cleanup.
Prepare Cauliflower: Wash and thoroughly dry the cauliflower to remove any moisture, then cut it into medium-sized florets ensuring they are about the same size for even cooking.
Toss with Seasonings: In a large bowl, coat the cauliflower florets evenly with olive oil. Sprinkle smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper over them and toss well to distribute the spices evenly across all pieces.
Add Breadcrumbs and Cheese: Add the panko breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese (if using) to the bowl. Stir or toss again gently to ensure the florets are thoroughly covered with the crispy coating mixture.
Arrange on Baking Sheet: Spread the coated cauliflower in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, making sure to leave some space between each floret to allow air circulation for crispiness.
Roast the Cauliflower: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping the florets once halfway through to promote even browning and crisping on all sides.
Serve: Remove from the oven once the cauliflower is golden brown and crispy. Let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy it hot as a tasty snack, a side dish, or part of a larger meal spread!

Notes

Ensure cauliflower is completely dry before coating to help breadcrumbs stick better and achieve crispiness.
For a vegan version, omit Parmesan cheese or substitute with a vegan cheese alternative.
Flipping halfway through roasting ensures even browning and crisp texture on all sides.
Adjust seasoning and spice amount to your taste preference, especially salt and smoked paprika.
Use fresh panko breadcrumbs for the best texture, or pulse regular bread in a food processor if unavailable.