Healthy Curried Cauliflower
A quick and nutritious roasted cauliflower dish infused with warm curry flavors, garlic, and a hint of lemon. Perfect as a side for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or simply a wholesome, plant-based addition to your table. Crispy edges and tender centers make it satisfyingly delicious with minimal effort.
Equipment
- 1 large mixing bowl
- 1 large baking tray
- Measuring spoons (tablespoon, teaspoon)
- Oven
Ingredients
- 1 medium to large cauliflower head cut into bite-sized florets
- 2 ½ tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon curry powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon fine sea salt
- Freshly cracked black pepper to taste
- Optional garnish: fresh herbs like cilantro and lemon wedges
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven for Perfect Roasting: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Ensuring the oven reaches the right temperature before placing the cauliflower inside is essential for even roasting. A properly preheated oven helps the cauliflower develop those lightly charred edges while keeping the inside tender and flavorful.
- Prepare the Cauliflower Florets: Take one medium to large cauliflower and cut it into bite-sized florets. Try to keep the pieces roughly uniform in size so they cook evenly. Rinse the florets under cold water, then gently pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Moisture can prevent proper roasting, so drying them thoroughly is key.
- Combine Ingredients in a Large Bowl: Place the cauliflower florets in a spacious mixing bowl. Drizzle 2 ½ tablespoons of olive oil over the florets. Add 1 tablespoon of curry powder, 1 ½ teaspoons of garlic powder, ¼ teaspoon of fine sea salt, and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Using your hands or a large spoon, gently toss everything together until each floret is evenly coated with the oil and spices. The goal is to create a uniform, flavorful layer on each piece.
- Arrange Cauliflower on the Baking Tray: Line a large baking tray with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking. Spread the seasoned cauliflower florets evenly across the tray, making sure they are in a single layer and not overlapping. Crowding the florets can cause steaming rather than roasting, so leave some space between pieces for optimal crisping.
- First Roast for Initial Caramelization: Place the tray in the preheated oven and roast for 15 minutes. This initial roasting step starts the caramelization process, enhancing the cauliflower’s natural sweetness and helping the spices adhere better. Avoid opening the oven frequently, as this can drop the temperature and extend cooking time.
- Toss for Even Browning: After the first 15 minutes, carefully remove the tray from the oven. Using a spatula or tongs, gently toss or flip the cauliflower florets to ensure all sides get evenly roasted. This step is crucial for achieving consistent browning and crispiness on every piece.
- Second Roast to Perfect Tenderness: Return the tray to the oven and continue roasting for another 10–15 minutes. Monitor closely in the last few minutes to avoid burning. You are aiming for a golden-brown, slightly charred exterior while keeping the centers tender. The florets should have a lovely roasted aroma and a slightly nutty flavor.
- Add Final Touches for Freshness: Once roasted, remove the cauliflower from the oven and transfer to a serving dish. For an extra burst of freshness and visual appeal, sprinkle chopped fresh herbs such as cilantro over the top. A squeeze of lemon juice adds a bright, tangy note that balances the warm curry flavors beautifully.
- Serve and Enjoy: Your curried cauliflower is now ready to be served. Pair it with rice, grains, or other main dishes, or enjoy it on its own as a wholesome, satisfying side. The combination of roasted texture, warm spices, and fresh garnishes makes this dish both comforting and vibrant.
Notes
- Always cut cauliflower into uniform florets to ensure even cooking.
- Patting the florets dry before tossing with oil helps achieve crispy edges.
- Adjust curry powder based on your spice preference; mild or hot varieties can change the flavor intensity.
- For extra depth, consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika or cumin.
- Use fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon right before serving to brighten the dish.
