Crispy Oven-Roasted Cauliflower

Elevate your vegetable game with these irresistibly crispy oven-roasted cauliflower florets. Coated in a crunchy panko breadcrumb and Parmesan cheese mixture, these cauliflower bites are bursting with flavor and perfect for snacking or serving as a delicious side dish.

Why Make Crispy Oven-Roasted Cauliflower

Crispy Oven-Roasted Cauliflower offers a delightful combination of textures and flavors that will make even the pickiest eaters crave their veggies. With a crispy golden exterior and tender interior, these cauliflower florets are a crowd-pleaser for all occasions. Plus, they’re easy to make and can be customized with your favorite herbs and spices.

How to Make Crispy Oven-Roasted Cauliflower

For the Cauliflower:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare the Cauliflower: Wash the cauliflower florets and dry them thoroughly.
3. Coat the Cauliflower:
   • Set up a coating station with three shallow dishes. Place seasoned flour in the first dish, beaten eggs in the second dish, and a mixture of panko breadcrumbs, Italian seasoning, chopped parsley, and grated Parmesan cheese in the third dish.
   • Dredge each cauliflower floret in the flour, then dip into the beaten eggs, and finally coat with the panko mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Bake:
   • Arrange the coated cauliflower florets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil.
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender on the inside and crispy golden brown on the outside. Turn the florets over halfway through the baking time for even cooking.

For the Creamy Herb Sauce (Optional):

1. Prepare the Sauce:
   • While the cauliflower is roasting, mix sour cream, yogurt, chopped parsley, salt, pepper, and lemon juice in a bowl. Adjust the seasoning to taste.
2. Serve:
   • Once the cauliflower is roasted, remove from the oven and let it cool slightly on the baking sheet.
   • Serve warm with the creamy herb sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy!

Serving Suggestions

Serve Crispy Oven-Roasted Cauliflower as a flavorful appetizer, snack, or side dish. Pair it with your favorite dipping sauces, such as marinara sauce, garlic aioli, or ranch dressing. You can also add it to salads, grain bowls, or wraps for an extra crunch.

Storage Info

Any leftover roasted cauliflower can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the oven or toaster oven until warmed through before serving.

Some Techniques or Tips

• Make sure to dry the cauliflower florets thoroughly before coating them with the breadcrumb mixture to ensure maximum crispiness.
• Customize the seasoning of the flour and breadcrumb mixture to suit your taste preferences. Try adding smoked paprika, garlic powder, or onion powder for extra flavor.
• For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour substitutes such as almond flour or chickpea flour.

FAQs about Crispy Oven-Roasted Cauliflower

1. Can I use frozen cauliflower florets for this recipe? While fresh cauliflower will yield the best results, you can use frozen cauliflower florets if that’s what you have on hand. Make sure to thaw and drain them completely before coating and baking.
2. Can I make this recipe vegan? Yes, you can make this recipe vegan by using plant-based alternatives for the eggs, Parmesan cheese, and creamy sauce. Replace the eggs with a mixture of non-dairy milk and cornstarch or use aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) as an egg substitute. Substitute nutritional yeast for the Parmesan cheese, and use a dairy-free yogurt or sour cream alternative for the creamy sauce.
3. Can I add other vegetables to the baking sheet with the cauliflower? Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables such as broccoli, carrots, or bell peppers to the baking sheet alongside the cauliflower for a colorful and nutritious medley. Just be mindful of the cooking times and adjust as needed to ensure even roasting.

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