Description
Parmesan-crusted roasted cauliflower promises a delightful culinary journey through crispy, golden textures and rich Mediterranean flavors. Cheese-lovers and vegetable enthusiasts will savor this simple yet elegant dish that elevates humble cauliflower into a gourmet experience.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1 medium cauliflower head, cut into florets
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
Seasonings and Spices:
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Transform cauliflower florets into a delectable golden treasure by generously tossing them with fragrant olive oil, ensuring each piece is evenly coated with salt and freshly cracked pepper.
- Create a zesty coating blend by combining grated Parmesan cheese, crunchy panko breadcrumbs, aromatic garlic powder, smoky paprika, and optional dried thyme in a mixing bowl.
- Methodically enrobe each cauliflower floret with the seasoned Parmesan mixture, gently pressing the coating to adhere completely and create a uniform crust.
- Preheat the oven to a scorching 425°F, preparing a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to facilitate even roasting and easy cleanup.
- Meticulously spread the coated cauliflower across the baking sheet, ensuring minimal overlap to promote maximum crispiness and golden-brown edges.
- Roast the cauliflower for approximately 20-25 minutes, rotating the pan midway to guarantee uniform caramelization and a perfectly crisp exterior.
- Remove from the oven when the Parmesan crust transforms into a gorgeous golden hue with delightfully crunchy edges and the cauliflower becomes tender.
- Garnish with finely chopped fresh parsley for a vibrant burst of color and additional flavor, serving immediately while the cauliflower remains piping hot and irresistibly crisp.
Notes
- Use fresh, high-quality Parmesan cheese for the most robust flavor and best crispy texture.
- Pat cauliflower florets completely dry before coating to help the Parmesan mixture adhere perfectly.
- Spread florets with enough space between them on the baking sheet to ensure even browning and crispiness.
- For a gluten-free version, replace panko breadcrumbs with almond meal or ground gluten-free crackers.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 153
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 200 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 9 mg