Turmeric Roasted Cauliflower
A vibrant and healthy side dish, this recipe features tender cauliflower florets perfectly roasted with a golden turmeric and olive oil coating, offering a delightful earthy flavor and beautiful color.
For 4 servings
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
Wash the head of cauliflower thoroughly. Remove the outer leaves and trim the bottom stem. Carefully cut the cauliflower into bite-sized florets, ensuring they are roughly uniform in size for even cooking.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, ground turmeric, garlic powder, ground cumin (if using), sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Whisk these ingredients together until you have a well-combined, smooth paste.
Add the prepared cauliflower florets to the bowl with the spice mixture. Toss thoroughly with your hands or a spatula until all florets are evenly coated in the vibrant turmeric seasoning.
Spread the seasoned cauliflower in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Ensure there is enough space between florets; if the pan is overcrowded, use a second baking sheet to avoid steaming the cauliflower.
Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. Halfway through the cooking time (around 10-12 minutes), carefully flip the florets with a spatula to ensure even browning and caramelization.
Continue roasting until the cauliflower is tender-crisp, with slightly softened interiors and beautifully golden-brown, caramelized edges.
Check for doneness by piercing a floret with a fork; it should be tender but still hold its shape and offer a slight resistance.
Remove the baking sheet from the oven and transfer the turmeric roasted cauliflower to a serving dish. Serve immediately as a healthy and flavorful side dish.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1**Don't Overcrowd the Pan**: For crispy, roasted cauliflower, ensure the florets are spread in a single layer on the baking sheet. Overcrowding will steam them instead of roasting, leading to a soggy texture.
- 2**Uniform Florets for Even Cooking**: Cut your cauliflower into similar-sized florets. This ensures that all pieces cook at roughly the same rate, preventing some from being undercooked while others burn.
- 3**Enhance Turmeric Absorption**: Always pair turmeric with black pepper, as the piperine in black pepper significantly increases the bioavailability and absorption of curcumin, turmeric's active compound.
- 4**High Heat is Key**: Roasting at a high temperature (400°F/200°C) is crucial for achieving those delicious crispy, caramelized edges and a tender interior.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicy Kick
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes (1/4 to 1/2 tsp) to the spice mixture for a delightful heat.
Herby FreshnessHerby Freshness
Toss the roasted cauliflower with 2 tablespoons of fresh chopped cilantro or parsley after it comes out of the oven for an aromatic finish.
Cheesy DelightCheesy Delight
Sprinkle 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese over the cauliflower during the last 5 minutes of roasting for a savory, cheesy crust.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Anti-inflammatory Properties
Turmeric contains curcumin, a powerful compound known for its strong anti-inflammatory effects, which can help reduce inflammation throughout the body.
Rich in Antioxidants
Both cauliflower and turmeric are packed with antioxidants, which combat free radicals and protect your cells from oxidative damage, contributing to overall health.
High in Fiber
Cauliflower is an excellent source of dietary fiber, promoting healthy digestion, aiding in blood sugar control, and contributing to feelings of fullness and satiety.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can use frozen cauliflower, but ensure you thaw it completely and pat it very dry with paper towels before tossing with oil and spices. Roasting time might be slightly longer, and the texture may be a bit softer.
