Description
This Roasted Parmesan Crusted Cauliflower recipe features tender cauliflower florets coated in a flavorful crust of parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, and aromatic spices, then oven-roasted to a perfect golden crisp. Ideal as a delicious and healthy side dish, it combines a crunchy texture with rich, cheesy notes and a hint of herbs, making it perfect for any meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Cauliflower and Preparation
- 1 large head of cauliflower, firm and fresh
- Oil spray (olive oil recommended)
- Finely chopped parsley, for garnish (optional)
Crust Mixture
- 1/2 cup (50g) grated parmesan cheese (sand-like texture)
- 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano or thyme
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 1/2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F) for a standard oven, or 180°C (350°F) if using a fan/convection oven to prepare for roasting.
- Mix Crust Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine the grated parmesan, panko breadcrumbs, dried oregano or thyme, paprika, black pepper, and olive oil until evenly mixed to form the crust mixture.
- Prepare Cauliflower: Break the cauliflower into large florets. Slice very large florets into 1.5cm (3/5 inch) thick slices and halve medium florets, ensuring each piece has a large, flat surface area to help the crust stick well.
- Arrange Baking Tray: Line a 30 x 40 cm (12 x 16 inch) baking tray with parchment paper and drizzle it with olive oil, spreading the oil evenly across the surface using a cauliflower floret.
- Scatter Crust Mixture: Evenly sprinkle the crust mixture all over the oiled parchment paper on the tray, taking care not to disturb it after scattering for an even crust layer.
- Place Cauliflower on Crust: Position the cauliflower pieces crust-side down onto the crust mixture, pressing lightly to help the crust adhere. Leave small gaps between florets to prevent steaming and sogginess.
- Oil and Season: Generously spray the cauliflower with oil and, if desired, sprinkle a little extra black pepper on top for added flavor.
- Roast the Cauliflower: Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes until the crust turns a deep golden color.
- Flip and Continue Baking: Using tongs, turn each cauliflower piece so the crust side is facing up and bake for an additional 5 minutes to finish crisping.
- Serve: Serve immediately, garnished with finely chopped parsley or your choice of herbs for a fresh finish.
Notes
- Use fresh, firm cauliflower heads for the best texture and flavor.
- The parmesan cheese should be the finely grated, sand-like type for better crust consistency.
- Panko breadcrumbs provide a lighter, crunchier crust than regular breadcrumbs.
- Do not overcrowd the baking tray to avoid soggy cauliflower; space is key.
- Spraying with oil instead of drizzling helps achieve a lighter, more even coating on the cauliflower.
- Feel free to swap oregano with thyme according to preference.
