This Easy Garlic Butter Roasted Cauliflower is a simple and tasty side dish that’s bursting with flavor! The garlic and butter make the cauliflower irresistible, turning a plain veggie into a star on your table.
Honestly, who knew cauliflower could taste this good? I love how the crispy edges get a little caramelized. It’s a fun way to sneak in some veggies without any fuss!
Plus, it’s super easy! Just toss the cauliflower in garlic butter, roast it up, and enjoy. I often pair it with grilled chicken for a perfect dinner duo!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cauliflower: Fresh cauliflower is key for this dish. If you can’t find it, frozen cauliflower florets can work too, just adjust the roasting time as they might cook quicker.
Butter: Unsalted butter gives the best flavor, but if you’re dairy-free, you can use vegan butter or olive oil instead. It won’t be quite the same, but the taste will still be good!
Garlic: Fresh garlic is the way to go for that strong flavor. If you’re in a pinch, you can use garlic powder, but use about 1/4 teaspoon since it’s more concentrated.
Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a nice pop of color and flavor. An easy substitution would be fresh chives or basil if you have those on hand!
How Do I Get My Cauliflower Perfectly Roasted?
Roasting is all about that high heat to get a nice caramelized texture. Follow these guidelines:
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet; give the florets space so they roast instead of steam.
- Ensure you flip the cauliflower halfway through cooking to brown on all sides.
- Keep an eye on it in the last few minutes; all ovens vary and you want it just golden without burning!
These tips will help your roasted cauliflower become deliciously crispy and full of flavor. Happy cooking!
Easy Garlic Butter Roasted Cauliflower Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes of preparation and 25-30 minutes of cooking time, making it a super quick side dish to whip up in just about 40 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). While it’s heating, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Make the Garlic Butter Mixture:
In a large bowl, pour in the melted butter, add the olive oil, and mix in the minced garlic. Stir everything together until it’s well combined.
3. Coat the Cauliflower:
Add the cauliflower florets into the bowl with the garlic butter mixture. Toss them thoroughly until each floret is evenly coated with the delicious mixture!
4. Spread on Baking Sheet:
Transfer the coated cauliflower to the prepared baking sheet. Spread them out evenly in a single layer so they roast nicely without steaming.
5. Season:
Sprinkle salt and freshly ground black pepper over the florets to enhance their flavor. Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your taste!
6. Roast in the Oven:
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the cauliflower for about 25-30 minutes. Remember to flip them halfway through for even browning. They should be tender and have golden brown edges when finished.
7. Serve it Up:
Once roasted, remove the cauliflower from the oven and transfer it to a serving dish. Add a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley on top to make it look pretty and fresh.
8. Enjoy Your Dish:
Serve the warm garlic butter roasted cauliflower as a delightful side dish. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Frozen Cauliflower for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen cauliflower! Just be sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry to remove excess moisture before coating with the garlic butter. The cooking time may be slightly shorter, so keep an eye on it while roasting.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Absolutely! Simply replace the unsalted butter with a plant-based butter or olive oil, and make sure your garlic is fresh. The dish will still be deliciously flavorful!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover roasted cauliflower in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven or microwave until heated through. It may lose a bit of its crispness, but it will still taste great!
What Other Herbs Can I Use in This Recipe?
You can experiment with other herbs like thyme, rosemary, or dill. Just replace parsley with your favorite herb for a different flavor profile. Fresh herbs work best, but dried herbs can also be used—just use them sparingly since they are more concentrated.
