Roasted cauliflower with parmesan and chives

Roasted cauliflower tossed with a zesty garlic and olive oil dressing, topped with melted parmesan and fresh chives. This simple yet flavorful side dish is easy to prepare and perfect for any meal.

15 Feb 2026
Cook time 15 min
Prep time 10 min

Ingredients:

6 cups cauliflower
1/4 cup olive oil
1 tbsp garlic
2 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
2 tbsp grated parmesan cheese
3 tbsp chives
Roasted cauliflower with parmesan and chives

Roasted cauliflower with parmesan and chives is a delightful and nutritious side dish that pairs well with a variety of mains. The lemon juice adds a zesty kick, while the garlic infuses the cauliflower with savory depth. Topped with grated parmesan and fresh chives, this recipe transforms a simple vegetable into a gourmet experience.

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare the Cauliflower:
Wash and cut the cauliflower into florets, ensuring they are roughly the same size for even cooking.
3. Mix the Dressing:
In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Whisk well to create a smooth dressing.
4. Coat the Cauliflower:
Add the cauliflower florets to the bowl with the dressing. Toss well to ensure all the florets are evenly coated.
5. Arrange on Baking Sheet:
Spread the coated cauliflower florets in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased.
6. Roast the Cauliflower:
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 25-30 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender and edges are golden brown. Toss the cauliflower halfway through the roasting time for even cooking.
7. Add Parmesan Cheese:
Remove the cauliflower from the oven and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top. Return the baking sheet to the oven and roast for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and slightly browned.
8. Finish with Chives:
Once the cauliflower is done, remove it from the oven and transfer to a serving dish. Sprinkle the finely chopped chives over the top for a burst of freshness and color.
9. Serve:
Serve the Roasted Cauliflower warm, optionally garnished with additional Parmesan cheese or a squeeze of lemon juice if desired.

This roasted cauliflower with parmesan and chives is an easy and flavorful dish that will complement any meal. The combination of zesty lemon, aromatic garlic, and creamy parmesan creates a mouthwatering balance of flavors. Garnished with fresh chives, this dish not only tastes amazing but also looks stunning. Enjoy this healthy and delicious recipe, and feel free to experiment with your favorite herbs and spices to make it your own.

Roasted cauliflower with parmesan and chives FAQ:

What is the best baking time for roasted cauliflower?

Roast the cauliflower for 25-30 minutes at 400°F (200°C), tossing halfway through for even cooking. It should be tender and golden brown when ready.

How can I tell if the cauliflower is fully cooked?

The cauliflower is done when it's fork-tender and the edges are golden brown. You can test doneness by piercing a floret with a fork; it should be soft but not mushy.

Can I make substitutions for the parmesan cheese?

Yes, you can substitute parmesan with similar cheeses like pecorino romano or nutritional yeast for a vegan option. Adjust the quantity to taste.

How should I store leftover roasted cauliflower?

Store leftover roasted cauliflower in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

What can I serve with roasted cauliflower?

Roasted cauliflower pairs well with various main dishes, including grilled meats, fish, or as part of a vegetarian meal. It's also great alongside pasta or grain bowls.

Tips:

- Ensure the cauliflower is evenly cut into florets for uniform cooking.

- You can add more garlic if you prefer a stronger garlic flavor.

- Toss the cauliflower well to make sure it is evenly coated with the olive oil and seasoning mixture.

- Roasting at a high temperature of around 425°F (220°C) will help achieve a crispy texture.

- Flip the cauliflower halfway through the roasting time for even browning.

- For a crunchier texture, consider sprinkling some breadcrumbs on top before roasting.

- Keep an eye on the cauliflower in the last few minutes of roasting to prevent burning.

Nutrition per serving

6 Servings
Calories 36kcal
Protein 2.73g
Carbohydrates 6g
Fiber 2.28g
Sugar 2.21g
Fat 10g

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