Whole Roasted Cauliflower
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Roasting a whole cauliflower might sound like an ambitious task, but it’s actually a simple yet stunning dish that can be the star of your table. This Vegan Herb-Crusted Whole Roasted Cauliflower is a delicious, flavorful, and visually impressive dish that suits any occasion, whether it’s a festive holiday meal, a family gathering, or a cozy weekend dinner. The cauliflower is first boiled to soften it slightly, then coated with a blend of aromatic herbs, garlic, and spices, giving it a beautiful, golden crust when roasted.
Not only is this dish vegan, but it’s also gluten-free and packed with flavor. The herb crust brings out the natural sweetness of the cauliflower, while the hint of smoked paprika adds depth and warmth. If you’re looking for a simple recipe that makes a big impact, this is it!
Why You Will Love This Whole Roasted Cauliflower
- Simple Yet Elegant: With minimal prep and easy-to-find ingredients, you can create a dish that looks like it came straight out of a restaurant kitchen.
- Healthy and Nutritious: Cauliflower is packed with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. This recipe lets you enjoy all those benefits without any heavy or processed ingredients.
- Versatile: Serve this roasted cauliflower as a main dish or a side. It pairs beautifully with various sauces and other side dishes.
- Crowd-Pleaser: The herb-crusted outer layer makes the cauliflower irresistible, even for those who may not usually reach for vegetables.
- Vegan & Gluten-Free: Perfect for anyone following a plant-based or gluten-free diet, making it an inclusive dish that everyone can enjoy.
Whole Roasted Cauliflower – Ingredient Notes
- Cauliflower: Choose a large, fresh cauliflower with tight, white florets. The quality of the cauliflower will determine the flavor and texture of the dish.
- Vegetable Broth: Boiling the cauliflower in a mix of water and vegetable broth infuses it with flavor right from the start.
- Vegan Butter: This adds a richness to the crust and helps the herbs stick to the cauliflower. You can use any plant-based butter of your choice.
- Herbs (Oregano, Thyme, Rosemary): These dried herbs create an aromatic crust that pairs perfectly with the mild taste of cauliflower.
- Smoked Paprika: Adds a subtle smoky flavor and beautiful color to the crust. If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika will work too.
- Fresh Parsley: Adds a fresh, vibrant finishing touch and a pop of color.
Tips and Tricks
- Boil the Cauliflower First: Boiling helps soften the cauliflower, ensuring that it cooks evenly when roasted. Be careful not to overboil it, as you want the cauliflower to hold its shape.
- Even Coating: Make sure to brush the herb mixture generously and evenly over the cauliflower. This will ensure every bite is packed with flavor.
- Customize the Herbs: Feel free to switch up the herbs based on your preference. Fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, and oregano can also be used, but make sure to finely chop them.
- Re-apply the Herb Mixture: Halfway through roasting, brush on any remaining herb mixture to create an even thicker crust.
- Roasting Time: Keep an eye on the cauliflower while it roasts. Depending on the size, you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly. You want a golden brown, slightly crisp crust.
Vegan Serving Suggestions & Pairings
- As a Main Dish: Serve the whole roasted cauliflower as the main dish, accompanied by a simple side salad, crusty bread, or quinoa. Drizzle with a vegan garlic aioli or tahini sauce for added flavor.
- As a Side Dish: This dish pairs beautifully with roasted potatoes, steamed greens, or a grain like farro or wild rice. It also complements a warm soup or stew perfectly.
- Sauces: For extra flavor, try pairing this with a vegan chimichurri, pesto, or a creamy vegan cheese sauce. A simple squeeze of lemon juice just before serving can also brighten up the flavors.
- Festive Table: This dish makes a stunning centerpiece for a holiday feast. Pair it with other vegan sides like roasted Brussels sprouts, maple-glazed carrots, and a cranberry sauce for a colorful, festive spread.
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat the cauliflower in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. This will help maintain the crispy texture of the crust.
- Freezing: It is not recommended to freeze this dish, as the texture of the cauliflower can become mushy when thawed and reheated.
Frequently Asked Questions about Whole Roasted Cauliflower
Can I make this recipe in advance?
- Yes! You can boil the cauliflower and prepare the herb mixture ahead of time. When you’re ready to serve, simply coat the cauliflower and roast it.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
- Absolutely! Fresh herbs will add a more vibrant flavor. Just remember to finely chop them, and you may need to increase the quantity since dried herbs are more concentrated.
Can I make this recipe oil-free?
- Yes, you can skip the olive oil and use additional vegetable broth instead. Keep in mind that the crust might be slightly less crispy.
What can I use instead of vegan butter?
- You can use olive oil or a blend of olive oil and coconut oil. This will slightly change the flavor but will still be delicious.
What should I do if my cauliflower is not cooking evenly?
- You can cover the cauliflower loosely with aluminum foil during roasting to allow it to steam slightly. Remove the foil in the last 10 minutes of roasting to get a nice, golden crust.
Equipment Needed
- Large Pot: For boiling the cauliflower.
- Baking Sheet: To roast the cauliflower.
- Parchment Paper: Helps prevent sticking and makes clean-up easier.
- Mixing Bowl: For preparing the herb mixture.
- Basting Brush: For applying the herb mixture to the cauliflower.
This Vegan Herb-Crusted Whole Roasted Cauliflower is an easy yet impressive dish that can elevate any meal. The process of boiling, coating, and roasting brings out the best in the cauliflower, making it tender on the inside and crispy on the outside. With its herbaceous, tangy, and slightly smoky crust, this dish is bound to become a favorite on your table. Whether you’re making it as a show-stopping main dish or a delightful side, it’s sure to please vegans and non-vegans alike!
Have you tried this Vegan Herb-Crusted Whole Roasted Cauliflower? Share your tips, variations, or favorite pairings in the comments below! Don’t forget to snap a picture and tag me on Instagram @healthy.living.enthusiast so I can see your beautiful creations. Happy cooking!
Whole Roasted Cauliflower
This Vegan Herb-Crusted Whole Roasted Cauliflower is a simple yet elegant dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Boiled to soften, then coated with a flavorful herb crust and roasted to golden perfection, it’s tender on the inside and crispy on the outside. Ideal as a stunning main or a tasty side dish.
Ingredients
- 1 large cauliflower, leaves removed
- 4 cups water
- 1 cup vegetable broth (optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons vegan butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- uPreheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Bring a large pot of water and vegetable broth to a boil.
- Careflly place the whole cauliflower into the pot and let it boil for about 8-10 minutes. This will soften the cauliflower slightly, allowing it to roast evenly.
- Remove from the water and let it drain well.
- In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, melted vegan butter, lemon juice, and minced garlic.
- Add smoked paprika, oregano, thyme, rosemary, salt, and black pepper. Stir until well combined.
- Place the boiled cauliflower on the prepared baking sheet.
- Generously brush the herb mixture all over the cauliflower, ensuring it's evenly coated.
- Roast the cauliflower in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and slightly crispy on the outside.
- To get an even crust, you can re-brush the cauliflower with any remaining herb mixture halfway through the roasting process.
- Once done, remove the cauliflower from the oven and let it cool slightly.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm as a centerpiece for your meal or as a delicious side dish.
Notes
- Softening the cauliflower by boiling ensures even cooking and a tender interior. Don’t skip this step!
- Make sure to brush the herb mixture evenly over the entire cauliflower for maximum flavor in every bite.
- Keep an eye on the cauliflower as it roasts. If it’s not browning evenly, rotate the pan or brush on a bit more of the herb mixture.
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