Roasted spiced cauliflower

Roasted spiced cauliflower features earthy cumin, hot chili powder, aromatic garlic, and vibrant turmeric, creating a crispy and flavorful dish. It's an excellent side or light main course, easy to make in just 30 minutes.

05 Feb 2026
Cook time 30 min
Prep time 10 min

Ingredients:

2 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp chili powder
2 garlic cloves
1 tsp turmeric powder
1/2 cauliflower
Roasted spiced cauliflower

Roasted spiced cauliflower is a delightful and healthy dish that combines the earthy flavor of cumin, the heat of chili powder, the aromatic touch of garlic, and the vibrant color of turmeric. This recipe transforms simple cauliflower into a flavorful and crispy treat that's perfect as a side dish or even as a main course for a light meal.

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare the Cauliflower:
- Cut the half cauliflower into uniform florets. This ensures even cooking. Place the florets into a large mixing bowl.
3. Make the Spice Mixture:
- In a small bowl, combine 2 tsp of ground cumin, 1 tsp of chili powder, and 1 tsp of turmeric powder.
- Peel the garlic cloves and finely mince them. Add the minced garlic to the spice mixture.
- Mix well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.
4. Season the Cauliflower:
- Drizzle the cauliflower florets with some olive oil (about 2 tablespoons).
- Sprinkle the spice mixture over the cauliflower. Toss the florets in the bowl until they are evenly coated with the spices and oil.
5. Roast the Cauliflower:
- Spread the seasoned cauliflower florets in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven.
6. Roasting Time:
- Roast the cauliflower for 25-30 minutes, or until the florets are tender and golden brown on the edges. Stir halfway through the cooking time for even roasting.
7. Serve:
- Remove the cauliflower from the oven and let it cool slightly.
- Transfer the roasted cauliflower to a serving dish.
8. Optional Garnish:
- You can garnish the roasted cauliflower with freshly chopped cilantro or a squeeze of lemon juice for added freshness and zing.
9. Enjoy:
Serve the roasted spiced cauliflower as a side dish or even as a main course paired with rice or quinoa.

This roasted spiced cauliflower is a versatile dish that's not only easy to make but also packed with flavor. Whether you're serving it as a side dish or enjoying it on its own, the combination of spices brings out the best in the cauliflower. Enjoy this healthy and delicious dish, and feel free to experiment with additional seasonings or vegetables to tailor it to your taste.

Roasted spiced cauliflower FAQ:

What is the baking time for roasted spiced cauliflower?

Roast the cauliflower for 25-30 minutes in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C). It's important to stir halfway through for even cooking.

How do I know when the cauliflower is done cooking?

The cauliflower is ready when it's tender and golden brown on the edges. You can test for doneness by piercing a floret with a fork—it should be easy to cut through.

Can I store leftovers, and for how long?

Yes, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.

What can I substitute for chili powder in this recipe?

If you don't have chili powder, you can use paprika or cayenne pepper for a different flavor profile. Adjust the amount based on your spice preference.

What pan size should I use for roasting the cauliflower?

A standard baking sheet (approximately 13x18 inches) works well. Ensure the cauliflower florets are in a single layer for even roasting.

Tips:

- Ensure the cauliflower florets are evenly sized to promote even roasting and ensure they all cook at the same rate.

- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure a consistent cooking temperature, which helps in achieving a crispy texture.

- Toss the cauliflower with the spices and some olive oil in a large bowl to ensure each piece is well-coated.

- Spread the cauliflower in a single layer on a baking sheet to prevent steaming and promote browning.

- Roast for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, to ensure an even roast.

- For additional flavor, consider adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro after roasting.

- Keep an eye on the cauliflower towards the end of the cooking time to prevent burning; roasting times may vary depending on your oven and the size of the florets.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 44kcal
Protein 2.82g
Carbohydrates 8g
Fiber 3.17g
Sugar 2.33g
Fat 0.87g

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