Can I use frozen cauliflower for this recipe?

While fresh cauliflower produces the best results, you can use frozen in a pinch. Thaw completely and pat very dry before roasting. You'll need to add 5-10 minutes to the cooking time, and the texture may be slightly less crisp, but the flavor will still be delicious.

My cauliflower isn't browning well. What am I doing wrong?

The most common culprits are overcrowding the pan or having too much moisture on your cauliflower. Make sure the florets are thoroughly dried after washing and arranged in a single layer with space between pieces. Also check that your oven is truly reaching 400°F – an oven thermometer can help verify this.

What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese to make this dairy-free?

For a dairy-free version, try nutritional yeast which provides a similar savory flavor profile. You can also use a plant-based Parmesan alternative, or simply omit the cheese and add extra seasonings like garlic powder and herbs.

Can I prepare this dish in advance for a dinner party?

Yes! Roast the cauliflower and onions up to a day ahead, then reheat at 350°F for 10-15 minutes and add the Parmesan just before serving. This makes it perfect for entertaining when you want to minimize last-minute cooking.

Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower Recipe

Name: Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 pounds cauliflower florets; 1 medium sweet onion, halved and sliced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Description

An easy and flavorful side dish, Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower is a perfect way to elevate a simple vegetable into a crispy, cheesy delight. This roasted cauliflower recipe combines caramelized cauliflower florets with the sharp, nutty flavor of Parmesan, creating a dish that’s both healthy and delicious. Perfect as a side dish for any meal or even as a snack, it’s quick to prepare and full of flavor.

Ingredients

Units Scale

For the Cauliflower

2 pounds cauliflower florets
1 medium sweet onion, halved and sliced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

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Instructions

Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). A properly preheated oven is crucial for ensuring even cooking and getting those lovely caramelized edges on the cauliflower.
Prepare the Vegetables
Spread the cauliflower florets and sliced onion evenly on a 4-sided baking sheet. Make sure they’re in a single layer to allow even roasting.
Season and Drizzle
Drizzle olive oil over the cauliflower and onion. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Toss everything together gently to ensure every piece is evenly coated.
Roast the Vegetables
Roast in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender and lightly browned. Stir halfway through roasting to promote even cooking.
Add Parmesan Cheese
Once the vegetables are roasted, remove the tray from the oven. Immediately sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the hot cauliflower and onion. The heat will help the cheese slightly melt and cling to the vegetables, adding a savory touch.
Serve
Serve the Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower hot as a side dish to your favorite meal. Enjoy!

Notes

Choosing the Best Cauliflower: Look for a firm head of cauliflower with tightly packed florets and no brown spots.
Customizations: Add a pinch of garlic powder or paprika before roasting for additional flavor.
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to restore crispiness.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 110
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 340mg
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 2.5g
Unsaturated Fat: 4.5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 8g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 5g
Cholesterol: 5mg