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- 1 large head of cauliflower - 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil - 4 cloves garlic, finely minced - 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika - Sea salt and black pepper to taste - Fresh parsley for garnish When I set out to make baked garlic Parmesan cauliflower, I focus on fresh and simple ingredients. A large head of cauliflower serves as the star of this dish. Choose one that feels firm and has tight florets. I use three tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil. This oil adds richness and helps the cauliflower roast perfectly. The garlic is key, so I finely mince four cloves. Garlic brings bold flavor and pairs beautifully with Parmesan. For the cheesy finish, I use half a cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Fresh cheese melts better and gives a deeper flavor than pre-grated options. I season with a teaspoon each of dried oregano and smoked paprika. Oregano adds an earthy note, while smoked paprika gives a hint of warmth. Don’t forget sea salt and black pepper to taste; these enhance all the flavors. Finally, I garnish with fresh parsley. It adds color and a burst of freshness to the dish. For the full recipe, you can refer to the detailed instructions shared earlier. First, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This heat will help the cauliflower roast perfectly. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This step keeps the cauliflower from sticking and makes cleanup easy. Next, gather your ingredients. In a large bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Use a whisk to combine everything well. You want this mix to be fragrant and smooth. Now it’s time to coat the cauliflower. Take your cauliflower florets and add them to the bowl with the garlic seasoning. Toss them gently so every floret gets a nice coat of the mix. This step is key for great flavor. Spread the seasoned cauliflower on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure the florets sit in a single layer. This helps them roast evenly and get crispy. Place your baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake the cauliflower for 15 minutes. This time allows the cauliflower to start softening and caramelizing. After 15 minutes, carefully pull the baking sheet out. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the cauliflower. This will melt and create a golden crust. Put the baking sheet back in the oven. Bake for another 10 to 15 minutes. You want the cheese to become bubbly and golden, while the cauliflower becomes tender. Once done, take the baking sheet out. Let the cauliflower cool for a few minutes. Garnish it with chopped parsley before serving to add a fresh touch. You can find the full recipe to guide you through these steps perfectly. To get the best baked garlic Parmesan cauliflower, focus on even roasting. Place the florets in a single layer on the baking sheet. This helps them cook evenly and become crispy. If they touch, they may steam instead of roast. Check for doneness by piercing a floret with a fork. It should be tender but not mushy. Look for a golden brown color on the cheese. This means it is ready to enjoy. To boost flavor, consider adding spices like cayenne pepper for heat or lemon zest for brightness. You can also use fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for added depth. If you have dietary preferences, swap out the cheese for a vegan option. Nutritional yeast can give a cheesy flavor without dairy. Adjust the amounts based on your taste. Serve your baked cauliflower in a rustic bowl, garnished with fresh parsley. This adds color and freshness. For a zesty kick, place lemon wedges on the side. They brighten the dish and offer a nice contrast to the savory flavors. Pair this tasty side with grilled chicken or fish. It also goes well with a quinoa salad for a hearty meal. Enjoy the blend of flavors and the beautiful presentation! For the full recipe, check out the sections above. {{image_4}} You can switch up the cheese in this recipe. Try using mozzarella for a gooey texture. Cheddar also adds a sharp flavor. If you want to make it vegan, try nutritional yeast. It gives a cheesy taste without dairy. You can also use vegan mozzarella for more creaminess. Feel free to add more veggies. Broccoli or bell peppers pair well with cauliflower. You can even toss in some cooked chicken for protein. For added flavor, use fresh herbs. Basil or thyme can bring a fresh taste to the dish. You can also sprinkle red pepper flakes for some heat. Want to save time? Try using an air fryer. Cook the cauliflower at 375°F for about 12-15 minutes. It will crisp up nicely and cook faster. If you’re in a rush, you can sauté the cauliflower on the stovetop. Use a pan with oil and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring often. This method gives a nice char, too. For more details, check the Full Recipe. To store leftover baked garlic Parmesan cauliflower, let it cool first. Place it in an airtight container. This helps keep the flavors fresh. You can store it in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. It can last up to three months in the freezer. To reheat the cauliflower, the oven is your best friend. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cauliflower on a baking sheet. Bake for about 10 minutes. This keeps the texture crisp. You can also use a microwave for quick reheating. However, it may make the cauliflower a bit soft. Want to get creative? Use leftovers in a salad or a wrap. You can add them to pasta for a tasty meal. This way, you enjoy those delicious flavors in new ways! For the full recipe, check out the details above. Bake Baked Garlic Parmesan Cauliflower for about 25 to 30 minutes total. Start by baking it for 15 minutes. This helps it get tender and a bit caramelized. After that, sprinkle the Parmesan cheese on top. Then bake it for another 10 to 15 minutes. This allows the cheese to melt and turn golden brown. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes to avoid burning. Yes, you can use frozen cauliflower. Frozen cauliflower works well if you're short on time. First, thaw it completely and drain any excess water. This step is key to avoid a soggy dish. Then, follow the same steps in the recipe. Just note that baking time may vary. Check for doneness a bit earlier to ensure perfect texture. Baked Garlic Parmesan Cauliflower pairs well with many dishes. You can serve it alongside grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. It also goes great with pasta dishes or a hearty salad. If you're having a barbecue, it makes a tasty side. You can even enjoy it as a snack on its own! To make Baked Garlic Parmesan Cauliflower gluten-free, check your ingredients. The main recipe is already gluten-free. Just ensure the Parmesan cheese is gluten-free. Most brands are safe, but it's good to double-check. You can enjoy this dish with peace of mind while sticking to a gluten-free diet. For the full recipe, you have everything you need to create this delicious side dish! This blog post gives you a clear path to making Baked Garlic Parmesan Cauliflower. We covered essential ingredients, easy steps, and helpful tips for great flavor. Remember to enjoy the cooking process and explore variations. You can adjust for your taste or needs, making this dish your own. This tasty recipe is simple and has great options for any meal. So grab your ingredients and start cooking! Enjoy every bite!

Baked Garlic Parmesan Cauliflower

Savor the delicious flavors of Savory Baked Garlic Parmesan Cauliflower with this easy recipe! Perfectly roasted, tender florets are coated in a mouthwatering garlic and herb mixture, then topped with melty Parmesan cheese for a delightful side dish or snack. Ready in just 40 minutes, this dish is not only tasty but also healthy! Click to explore the full recipe and elevate your dinner tonight!
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Ingredients
  

1 large head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets

3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

4 cloves garlic, finely minced

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

1/2 teaspoon sea salt

1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.

    In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, smoked paprika, sea salt, and black pepper. Whisk the mixture until it is well combined and fragrant.

      Add the cauliflower florets to the bowl and gently toss them with the garlic seasoning mixture, ensuring all florets are evenly coated for maximum flavor.

        Spread the seasoned cauliflower florets in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet to promote even roasting.

          Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes, allowing the cauliflower to start becoming tender and slightly caramelized.

            After 15 minutes, carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven. Evenly sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the partially baked cauliflower, allowing it to melt and brown.

              Return the baking sheet to the oven and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender and the cheese is golden and bubbly.

                Once cooked, take the baking sheet out of the oven and allow the cauliflower to cool for a few minutes. Finish the dish by garnishing with chopped fresh parsley for a vibrant touch before serving.

                  Prep Time: 10 mins | Total Time: 40 mins | Servings: 4

                    - Presentation Tips: Serve the baked cauliflower hot in a rustic serving bowl, adorned with additional parsley for a splash of color, and include a lemon wedge on the side to offer a refreshing zesty contrast to the savory dish.