Baked cauliflower tastes better than meat! Crispy roasted cauliflower

Ingredients:

To make this crispy baked cauliflower, you’ll need:

For the Cauliflower:

• 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon cumin (optional, for extra depth of flavor)
• ½ teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for a slight kick)
• ½ cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for a vegan version)

For the Dipping Sauce (Optional but Recommended!):

• ½ cup Greek yogurt or mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Preparing the Cauliflower

1. Preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.
3. Wash and dry the cauliflower thoroughly, then cut it into evenly sized florets to ensure even cooking.
   

   Step 2: Seasoning the Cauliflower

   1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, cumin (if using), and chili flakes.
   2. Add the cauliflower florets to the bowl and toss well to coat them evenly with the seasoning mixture.

   Step 3: Coating for Extra Crispiness

   1. In a separate small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option).
   2. Sprinkle this mixture over the seasoned cauliflower and toss again until the florets are well coated.
   3. This step adds a crispy, golden crust that makes the cauliflower irresistible!

   Step 4: Baking to Perfection

   1. Spread the cauliflower florets in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure they are not overcrowded, as this helps them get crispy instead of steaming.
   2. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the cauliflower is golden brown and crispy on the edges.

   Step 5: Making the Dipping Sauce (Optional but Delicious!)

   1. In a small bowl, mix together Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise), lemon juice, honey (or maple syrup), garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
   2. Stir well until smooth and creamy. This sauce pairs beautifully with the crispy cauliflower!

   Step 6: Serving and Enjoying

   1. Once the cauliflower is golden and crispy, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a minute.
   2. Serve hot with the dipping sauce on the side, or enjoy it as is!

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   Why This Recipe is Amazing

   ✅ Better Than Meat! – Crispy, flavorful, and satisfying, this baked cauliflower has an irresistible texture and taste.
   ✅ Healthy & Nutritious – Low in calories, rich in fiber, and packed with vitamins, it’s a great alternative to fried or heavy dishes.
   ✅ Easy to Make – Simple ingredients, minimal prep, and a quick baking time make this a hassle-free dish.
   ✅ Crispy and Flavorful – The breadcrumb and Parmesan coating adds the perfect crunch!
   ✅ Versatile – Enjoy it as a snack, appetizer, side dish, or even a main course.

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   Conclusion

   This crispy baked cauliflower is proof that vegetables can be just as delicious—if not more—than meat! With its golden, crunchy exterior and tender, flavorful inside, this dish will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.

   Try it once, and you’ll be hooked! 🌟🔥🍽