This roasted purple cauliflower is a simple side dish that livens up the dinner table. And with crispy parmesan, everyone is going to want seconds!
When life gives your purple cauliflower…you roast it! Well, that’s what I did anyways.
This simple yet elegant dish showcases the natural beauty and health benefits of this unique veggie. With a drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of salt and pepper, and a generous topping of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, you’ll create a colorful culinary masterpiece that bursts with flavor and leaves you craving for more.
It makes a stunning side dish on the weeknight dinner table and can be customized to whatever spices you might have on hand. Let’s cook!
Here’s What You’ll Need
- Purple Cauliflower: This vibrant vegetable is the star of the show, bringing a stunning purple hue and a mild, slightly nutty flavor to the dish. Its rich color is due to the presence of anthocyanins, which are antioxidants known for their health benefits. Learn more about purple cauliflower and where to buy it here!
- Olive Oil: The olive oil serves as the perfect roasting agent, helping to caramelize the cauliflower while infusing it with a little flavor. Look for high-quality extra-virgin olive oil for the best results.
- Salt and Pepper: These essential seasonings enhance the natural flavors of the cauliflower and balance out the richness of the Parmesan cheese.
- Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese: The parmesan cheese adds a nutty and savory note, creating a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the roasted cauliflower. Be sure to use freshly grated Parmesan for the best texture and flavor (pre-grated parmesan has anti-caking starch mixed in, which adds a flavor you don’t want).
Does It Need To Be Purple?
When selecting purple cauliflower, choose heads with firm and compact florets, and avoid any that have signs of wilting or discoloration. If you can’t find purple cauliflower, you can still make this recipe using regular white cauliflower.
How to Roast Purple Cauliflower
Step 1: Prep
Preheat oven to 425°F (218°C). Cut cauliflower into either 1-inch slabs or bite-sized florets (or both). I like to cut larger “steaks” to showcase that gorgeous color!
Step 2: Cook
Place the cauliflower pieces on a parchment-lined baking sheet, which helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. Drizzle the olive oil over the cauliflower, then sprinkle with the salt and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to toss the cauliflower around gently, ensuring that every piece is evenly coated with the oil and seasonings. Roast the cauliflower just until it begins to brown. You’ll know it’s ready when the edges are just starting to turn golden brown, and the cauliflower is tender but still has a slight bite.
Step 3: Cheese
It’s time to add the cheesy finishing touch to your roasted cauliflower. Take the baking sheet out of the oven and evenly sprinkle the freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the cauliflower. Return the baking sheet to the oven and let it cook for a few more minutes until the cheese becomes slightly browned and crispy.
FAVORITE SHEET PAN
This large nonstick sheet pan is one of my everyday favorites!
FAQs
Can I use regular cauliflower instead of purple cauliflower?
Yes, you can use regular cauliflower if you can’t find purple cauliflower. The recipe will still work perfectly with white cauliflower.
Can I use other cheeses instead of Parmesan?
Absolutely! While Parmesan cheese adds a delightful nutty flavor, you can experiment with other cheeses like cheddar, Gouda, or feta to create different taste profiles.
Can I add other seasonings or herbs to the cauliflower?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with additional seasonings or fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or garlic powder to customize the flavor to your liking.
Did you make this recipe? Be sure to leave a review below and tag me @liveeatlearn on Facebook or Instagram!
Ingredients
- 1 head purple cauliflower
- 2 to 4 Tbsp olive oil 30 to 60 mL
- ½ tsp each salt and pepper
- ½ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese 40 g
Instructions
- Prep: Preheat oven to 425°F (218°C). Cut cauliflower into either 1 inch slabs or bit-sized florets (or both).
- Cook: Transfer cauliflower to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Drizzle oil, salt, and pepper on top, then toss around to evenly coat. Cook on the lower rack of the oven for 10 to 15 minutes, or until cauliflower is just beginning to brown on the edges.
- Cheese: Remove tray from oven. Sprinkle cheese evenly over the cauliflower. Return the tray to the oven and continue cooking for 5 to 10 minutes, or until cheese is a bit browned and crispy. Serve hot.
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