Golden Herb-Infused Roasted Garlic Cauliflower
Delight in this delectable dish featuring golden roasted cauliflower, blissfully infused with the aromatic flavors of rosemary, luscious roasted garlic, and a hint of saffron. This savory medley brings a touch of elegance to any meal, perfect for gatherings or a cozy family dinner. Paired with a rich, creamy roasted garlic sauce that elevates each bite, this recipe promises to be a crowd-pleaser. Serve it as a warm side dish or a flavorful appetizer, and watch as everyone comes back for more! Don't forget to visit our recipe page and cast your vote!
10
Servings
N/A
Calories
11
Ingredients
Ingredients
Cauliflower
1 large (trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces)
Garlic cloves
16 (peeled and lightly crushed)
Fresh rosemary
1-2 teaspoons (minced)
Saffron threads
1/4 teaspoon (not packed (use sparingly to avoid bitterness))
Salt
1 teaspoon
Black pepper
1/4-1/2 teaspoon
Olive oil
1/4 cup (warmed)
Additional olive oil
2 tablespoons (for blending)
Fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon
Lemon slice
1 (for garnish)
Fresh rosemary sprig
1 (for garnish)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
2
Rinse the cauliflower pieces in cold water without drying them.
3
In a large mixing bowl, combine the warmed olive oil, minced rosemary, saffron, salt, pepper, and crushed garlic. Allow the mixture to sit for 5 minutes to enhance the flavors.
4
Drizzle the garlic oil mixture over the damp cauliflower and toss thoroughly to ensure each piece is well coated.
5
Spread the seasoned cauliflower evenly onto a large baking sheet in a single layer.
6
Roast the cauliflower in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. After 15 minutes, give it a gentle toss and continue to roast for another 15 minutes.
7
After the second 15 minutes, toss the cauliflower again and roast for an additional 15 minutes, or until the edges are crisp and the cauliflower is tender. If desired, roast for an additional 15 minutes for extra tenderness.
8
Once roasted, remove the baking sheet from the oven. Transfer the cauliflower to a serving bowl.
9
In a blender or food processor, combine the roasted garlic and rosemary mixture with the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil and lemon juice. Blend until smooth.
10
Drizzle the creamy roasted garlic sauce over the cauliflower or serve it on the side for dipping or spreading on crisp bread. Garnish with a slice of lemon and a sprig of fresh rosemary before serving.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Golden Herb-Infused Roasted Garlic Cauliflower?
It is a delectable side dish or appetizer featuring cauliflower roasted with rosemary, garlic, and saffron, served with a creamy garlic sauce.
What are the primary ingredients?
The main ingredients include a large cauliflower, 16 garlic cloves, fresh rosemary, saffron threads, and olive oil.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to provide 10 servings.
What is the recommended oven temperature?
The oven should be preheated to 450 degrees Fahrenheit or 230 degrees Celsius.
How should the cauliflower be prepared for roasting?
Trim and cut the cauliflower into bite-sized pieces and rinse them in cold water without drying them.
Why shouldn't I dry the cauliflower after rinsing?
Leaving the cauliflower damp helps the garlic oil mixture coat each piece thoroughly.
How much garlic is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 16 garlic cloves, which are peeled and lightly crushed.
How long should the oil and spice mixture sit before use?
Allow the mixture of oil, rosemary, saffron, salt, pepper, and garlic to sit for 5 minutes to enhance the flavors.
What is the total roasting time for the cauliflower?
The cauliflower is roasted in three 15-minute intervals, totaling 45 minutes, with an optional extra 15 minutes for tenderness.
How do I make the roasted garlic sauce?
Blend the roasted garlic and rosemary mixture with two tablespoons of olive oil and lemon juice until smooth.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this is a vegetarian-friendly dish.
What kind of oil is recommended?
The recipe specifies using olive oil, which should be warmed for the initial infusion.
What herbs are used for flavoring?
The recipe uses fresh rosemary, both minced for roasting and as a sprig for garnish.
How much saffron is needed?
You should use 1/4 teaspoon of saffron threads, used sparingly to avoid a bitter taste.
What should I do with the cauliflower during roasting?
You should toss the cauliflower every 15 minutes to ensure even roasting and crisp edges.
How do I know when the cauliflower is done?
It is ready when the edges are crisp and the cauliflower is tender.
What is the purpose of the lemon juice?
The fresh lemon juice is blended into the sauce to add a bright, acidic balance to the rich roasted garlic.
How is the dish garnished?
Garnish the finished dish with a slice of lemon and a sprig of fresh rosemary.
Can I serve the sauce separately?
Yes, you can either drizzle the sauce over the cauliflower or serve it on the side for dipping.
What should I do with the garlic cloves before roasting?
The garlic cloves should be peeled and lightly crushed before being added to the oil mixture.
Is this recipe considered a healthy option?
Yes, it is tagged as a healthy recipe and a vegetable side dish.
Can this recipe be used as an appetizer?
Yes, it is suggested as a flavorful appetizer that can be served with crisp bread.
How much salt and pepper should be used?
Use 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper.
What equipment is needed for the sauce?
A blender or food processor is required to blend the sauce until it is smooth.
How do I arrange the cauliflower on the baking sheet?
Spread the seasoned cauliflower evenly onto a large baking sheet in a single layer.
Can the garlic sauce be used for anything else?
The recipe suggests the sauce is also great for spreading on crisp bread.
What is the role of saffron in this dish?
Saffron provides a hint of aromatic flavor and contributes to the golden color of the cauliflower.
Why is the olive oil warmed?
Warming the olive oil helps to enhance the infusion of the rosemary, saffron, and garlic flavors.
Is this dish served warm or cold?
It is intended to be served as a warm side dish or appetizer.