Something special happens when you roast cauliflower – it almost tastes like popcorn! This is my absolute favorite way to prepare cauliflower and one of my favorite veggie recipes of all time.

There’s something about roasting vegetables that I just love. I’ve found that even if you don’t like a particular veggie raw, once you roast it, the flavors completely change and it turns into something super yummy and delicious. This completely applies to today’s recipe for Roasted Cauliflower “Popcorn!”

Cauliflower was actually the first vegetable I ever attempted to roast. Try I did, and I fell in love. Something happens to the cauliflower while it’s roasting that turns it from a bland, somewhat boring veggie, into a super flavorful one that makes the perfect side dish or snack!

How to Roast Cauliflower

Here is a brief overview of how to roast cauliflower in the oven. For the full recipe including all measurements, see the recipe card at the bottom of the post.

1. Cut the cauliflower. Wash it thoroughly and cut the cauliflower into fairly large chunks (it shrinks up as it roasts so you don’t want the pieces too small).
2. Season the cauliflower. Place the cauliflower on a lined baking sheet and toss it with some olive oil, kosher salt, and any seasonings you like.
3. Bake the cauliflower. Cover tightly with foil and bake for 15 minutes. Then remove the foil and continue roasting for 35-40 minutes, or until the cauliflower starts to turn brown.
4. Adjust the seasonings. Remove from the oven and add more salt or seasonings as needed. Enjoy!

Preparing Cauliflower

When picking out cauliflower, choose a head that is bright white with no brown spots. You want the leaves to be bright green. Rinse the cauliflower head under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris. Pay attention to the crevices between the florets.

Remove the leaves and trim the stem of the cauliflower. Cut or break the cauliflower into bite-sized florets for even roasting. Ensure the florets are of similar size to promote uniform cooking.

Tips and Tricks

• Make sure your oven is preheated to 450 degrees before placing the cauliflower inside. This helps achieve optimal roasting results and is important anytime you are baking.
• Start by baking the cauliflower covered, then finish uncovered. Flip the florets halfway through for that perfect, even golden brown.
• Play around with the seasonings. I originally tried it with curry powder but wasn’t crazy about it. Then I tried it with some ancho chili powder, and a little garlic powder and it was just perfect. Use any seasonings you like, you really can’t go wrong!

Serving

Remember, the key to delicious oven roasted cauliflower lies in choosing a fresh head, proper preparation, and experimenting with seasonings to suit your taste preferences. Adjust the size and cut of the cauliflower based on your roasting method and enjoy the golden brown goodness!

Serve roasted cauliflower as a delightful side dish, a crunchy appetizer, or even toss it into salads for an extra crunch. Get creative, experiment with flavors, and savor the satisfaction of crafting a wholesome and delicious dish right from your own kitchen. Happy roasting!

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Store any leftover cauliflower in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat the portion you plan to eat in the air fryer or oven until heated through. Always use your best judgement when it comes to reheating and eating leftovers.

Other Easy Vegetable Side Dishes

• Oven Roasted Baby Carrots
• Crispy Parmesan Roasted Potatoes
• Pan Roasted Green Beans with Garlic Sauce

If you make this roasted cauliflower recipe or any of my other recipes, please leave a comment letting me know what you think!

Recipe adapted from
Summer Tomato