ZESTY LEMON-GARLIC ROASTED CAULIFLOWER
Zesty Lemon-Garlic Roasted Cauliflower is a simple yet flavour-packed dish that brings out the best in this nutritious vegetable. Fresh cauliflower florets are tossed with olive oil, minced garlic and lemon juice, then roasted to golden perfection, creating a deliciously crisp and aromatic bite. The lemon juice enhances the natural nuttiness of cauliflower, while garlic, salt and olive oil add depth of flavour and richness. This dish is incredibly easy to make and also fits a variety of dietary needs, being naturally gluten-free, vegan and low in carbs. Whether served as a side dish, a light appetizer or even as a topping for grain bowls, this roasted cauliflower is a go-to for those looking for a healthy yet satisfying meal addition. Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep or holiday feasts, this recipe is both nourishing and full of zesty goodness.
RECIPE CATEGORY
Side, Appetiser, Main Course
SERVING SIZE
1
CUISINE
Mediterranean, Californian
PREPARATION/TECHNIQUES
Roast, 5 Ingredients or Less
OCCASION/HOLIDAY
Casual Dinner, Thanksgiving, Backyard BBQ Side
SPECIAL CONSIDERATION/DIETARY CONCERNS
Healthy, Vegan, Wheat / Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free, Paleo, Whole30,
DISH TYPE
Condiment / Spread
INGREDIENTS
These are the following ingredients for Zesty Lemon-Garlic Roasted Cauliflower:
- ½ cup cauliflower florets
- ½ teaspoon lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon olive oil
- ¼ teaspoon salt
FULL NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
- Calories: 35.9 kcal
- Protein: 1.1 g
- Carbohydrates: 3.3 g
- Fiber: 1.1 g
- Sugars: 1.1 g
- Fat: 2.4 g
- Saturated Fat: 0.4 g
- Sodium: 138.8 mg
- Potassium: 168.2 mg
- Calcium: 14.6 mg
- Iron: 0.3 mg
PREPARATION
These steps are followed for Zesty Lemon-Garlic Roasted Cauliflower:
- Preheat The Oven: Set the oven to 200°C (400°F) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
- Prepare The Cauliflower: Wash and dry the cauliflower florets to ensure they roast properly.
- Mix The Ingredients: In a bowl, toss cauliflower with olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice and salt.
- Spread Evenly: Arrange the florets in a single layer on the baking tray for even roasting.
- Roast To Perfection: Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until the edges are golden and crispy.
- Serve And Enjoy: Enjoy warm as a delicious side dish or add to salads and grain bowls.
PREP TIME
5 minutes
COOKING TIME
20-25 minutes
TIPS
Here are some helpful tips for Zesty Lemon-Garlic Roasted Cauliflower:
- Use Fresh Garlic: Fresh garlic provides a stronger, more aromatic flavour.
- Do Not Overcrowd The Tray: This ensures an even roasting and crispier florets.
- Let It Cool Slightly: Enhances texture and allows flavours to settle.
- Adjust Lemon Juice: Add more lemon juice for a tangier kick.
VARIATIONS
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne for heat.
- Herb Boost: Mix in fresh parsley, thyme or rosemary for added aroma.
- Cheesy Finish: Sprinkle nutritional yeast or grated parmesan for a cheesy twist.
- Nutty Crunch: Toss with toasted almonds or pine nuts for extra texture.
PREPPING AND STORAGE
- Short-Term Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating Tip: Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 5-10 minutes to maintain crispness.
- Freezing Option: This is not recommended, as cauliflower can become mushy after thawing.