Prepare to transform the humble cauliflower into a culinary masterpiece that will have your family and friends begging for seconds! This Garlic Parmesan Cauliflower Salad is not just another side dish – it's a flavor explosion that turns ordinary vegetables into a gourmet experience. Imagine golden-roasted cauliflower florets kissed with garlic, generously coated in nutty Parmesan cheese, and sprinkled with fresh parsley – a dish so delicious, it might just make you forget you're eating a vegetable!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 head cauliflower, cut into florets
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature will help to roast the cauliflower and bring out its natural sweetness.
- While the oven is heating, prepare the cauliflower. Cut the head of cauliflower into bite-sized florets, ensuring they are roughly the same size for even cooking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cauliflower florets with 3 tablespoons of olive oil. Toss the florets until they are evenly coated in the oil.
- Add the minced garlic to the bowl, along with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well to ensure the garlic is evenly distributed throughout the cauliflower.
- Spread the cauliflower mixture in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This will prevent sticking and make for easier cleanup.
- Roast the cauliflower in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the florets are golden brown and tender. Stir the cauliflower halfway through the cooking time to ensure even roasting.
- Once the cauliflower is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly. This will enhance the flavors and make it more enjoyable to eat.
- Transfer the roasted cauliflower to a serving bowl. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the warm cauliflower, allowing it to melt slightly.
- Add the chopped parsley to the bowl, and toss everything together gently to combine. The parsley will add a fresh flavor and vibrant color to the salad.
- Serve the Garlic Parmesan Cauliflower Salad warm or at room temperature. Enjoy as a delicious side dish or a light main course!
Tips
- Size Matters: Cut your cauliflower florets into uniform sizes to ensure even roasting and consistent texture.
- Don't Skimp on Oil: The olive oil is crucial for achieving that perfect golden-brown color and preventing the cauliflower from drying out.
- High Heat is Key: Roasting at 425°F helps caramelize the cauliflower, bringing out its natural sweetness and creating delightful crispy edges.
- Fresh Garlic Only: Use fresh garlic cloves instead of pre-minced to get the most vibrant flavor.
- Cheese Tip: Grate the Parmesan fresh if possible – it melts better and has a more intense flavor than pre-packaged cheese.
- Serving Suggestion: For extra crunch, consider adding toasted pine nuts or breadcrumbs as a final garnish.
- Make Ahead: This dish can be prepared in advance and reheated, making it perfect for meal prep or entertaining.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 130kcal
Carbohydrates: 6g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 10mg
