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This crispy roasted cauliflower is a savory, cheesy side dish that takes cauliflower to the next level. With sharp cheddar and parmesan cheese, every bite is bursting with flavor. Roasted to perfection, the cauliflower gets golden and crispy, making it a fantastic accompaniment to any meal.
INGREDIENTS
- Cauliflower: 1 large, cut into florets for easy roasting
- Olive oil: 6 tablespoons, for tossing the cauliflower and ensuring crispy edges
- Old Bay seasoning: 1 teaspoon, adds a subtle spiciness and flavor depth
- Chili pepper: 1/2 teaspoon, for a slight heat that complements the cauliflower
- Fresh ground pepper: to taste, balancing the flavors with some extra spice
- Sharp white cheddar cheese: 8 oz, grated for a creamy and sharp flavor
- Parmesan cheese: 4 oz, grated for an added layer of savory richness
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C). Cut cauliflower into florets, slicing large pieces in half to ensure even cooking.
- Step 2:
- Place cauliflower in a large bowl, drizzle with 6 tablespoons of olive oil, and toss to coat evenly.
- Step 3:
- Season with 1/2 teaspoon of Old Bay seasoning, 1/4 teaspoon of chili pepper, and fresh ground pepper. Toss again to coat the cauliflower in the seasoning.
- Step 4:
- Spread the cauliflower onto a foil-lined baking sheet, ensuring the florets are in a single layer for even roasting.
- Step 5:
- Roast on the top rack for 15 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender and golden brown.
- Step 6:
- While the cauliflower is baking, grate the cheddar and parmesan cheeses.
- Step 7:
- Remove the cauliflower from the oven, sprinkle with the grated cheeses, and return to the oven for an additional 7–10 minutes until the cheese is melted and crispy.
- Step 8:
- Scrape the crispy cheese from the pan, serve, and enjoy!
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serve these crispy roasted cauliflower bites as a side dish with your favorite roasted meats or vegetarian dishes.
- For leftovers, store the cauliflower in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to retain the crispiness of the cheese.
Helpful Notes
- Feel free to add extra seasonings, such as garlic powder or smoked paprika, for a different flavor twist.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the amount of chili pepper or add red pepper flakes to taste.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Chef Jamie Oliver suggests drizzling a little balsamic vinegar over the cauliflower before roasting for a tangy contrast to the cheese.
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