GARLIC & HERB WHOLE ROASTED CAULIFLOWER

Roasting a whole cauliflower head is not only a visually stunning way to serve this versatile vegetable but also enhances its natural flavors. The combination of garlic, herbs, and Parmesan cheese creates a deliciously savory crust that will leave your taste buds craving more. This recipe is not only easy to make but also a crowd-pleaser, perfect for both casual dinners and special occasions.

Ingredients:

• 1 head of cauliflower, leaves removed
• 2 tablespoons of butter, melted (or dairy-free alternative)
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• ½ teaspoon of salt, to taste
• ¼ teaspoon of pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon of Italian seasonings
• 2 cloves of garlic, crushed
• 2-3 tablespoons of Parmesan cheese (dairy-free if needed)
• Fresh parsley, finely chopped

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut and remove the leaves from the head of cauliflower. Trim the thick white stalk at the base.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, olive oil, salt, pepper, Italian seasonings, and crushed garlic.
4. Place the cauliflower head in a dutch oven or baking dish. Use a basting brush to coat it with ¾ of the butter and herb sauce, saving the remaining sauce.
5. Cover the cauliflower head with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-20 minutes, until tender and lightly browned.
6. Brush the remaining sauce over the cauliflower and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
7. Turn the oven to high broil and broil for 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese begins to turn golden brown.
8. Serve with freshly chopped parsley and additional Parmesan cheese. Enjoy!

FAQs:

1. Can I use frozen cauliflower for this recipe? It’s best to use fresh cauliflower for optimal texture and flavor, but you can try thawing and draining frozen cauliflower before roasting.
2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time? While it’s best served fresh out of the oven, you can prepare the cauliflower up to the point of baking it, then cover and refrigerate until ready to bake.
3. How can I make this recipe vegan? Substitute dairy-free butter and omit the Parmesan cheese, or use a vegan alternative.
4. What can I serve with roasted whole cauliflower? This dish pairs well with roasted potatoes, a fresh salad, or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
5. Can I add other spices to the herb butter? Feel free to customize the herb butter with your favorite spices such as smoked paprika, cumin, or thyme for added flavor.
6. How do I know when the cauliflower is done cooking? It should be tender when pierced with a fork and lightly browned on the outside.
7. Can I use cauliflower florets instead of a whole head? Yes, you can adapt this recipe by using cauliflower florets, adjusting the cooking time as needed.
8. How should I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Tips:

1. Choose a medium-sized cauliflower: Look for a cauliflower head that feels heavy for its size and has tightly packed florets.
2. Adjust seasoning to taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of salt, pepper, and other seasonings according to your preference.
3. Use a sharp knife: A sharp knife will make it easier to trim the cauliflower and create even slices.
4. Check the cauliflower halfway through cooking: Remove the foil halfway through baking to check the progress and ensure it’s cooking evenly.

This recipe is a delightful way to showcase cauliflower as the star of the dish, and with its flavorful garlic herb butter, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. Enjoy the simple elegance and delicious taste of roasted whole cauliflower!

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