This sweet and spicy roasted cauliflower is a perfect side dish or snack. The cauliflower gets tender and caramelized, and the glaze adds a rich, flavorful kick that everyone will love. It’s simple, healthy, and packed with flavor—ideal for those who want to enjoy a nutritious yet delicious dish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Sweet and Spicy: The glaze gives the cauliflower a balanced flavor that is both sweet and spicy.
• Healthy: Cauliflower is a low-calorie vegetable that’s full of fiber and vitamins, making this a nutritious dish.
• Easy to Make: Roasting cauliflower with a glaze is simple and requires minimal ingredients.
• Versatile: Serve it as a side dish, snack, or appetizer. It pairs well with a variety of main dishes.
Ingredients
• Cauliflower Florets (1 medium head): The star of the dish. You’ll want to cut it into bite-sized florets.
• Olive Oil (2 tablespoons): Helps the cauliflower roast to a crispy, golden perfection.
• Honey (2 tablespoons): Adds a touch of sweetness to balance the spice.
• Soy Sauce (1 tablespoon): Brings a savory umami flavor to the glaze.
• Sriracha Sauce (1 tablespoon): Adds heat and depth to the glaze. You can adjust the amount based on how spicy you like it.
• Garlic Powder (1/2 teaspoon): Adds flavor to the glaze.
• Ginger Powder (1/2 teaspoon): Complements the sweetness and spice of the sauce.
• Lemon Juice (1 tablespoon): Brightens up the dish and balances the flavors.
• Fresh Parsley (for garnish): Adds freshness and color to the final dish.
• Lemon Wedges (for garnish): Optional, but adds a nice zesty touch.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high heat will help the cauliflower roast perfectly, becoming crispy on the edges while staying tender inside.
Step 2: Prepare the Cauliflower
Wash the cauliflower and cut it into bite-sized florets. Dry them thoroughly with a towel to remove excess moisture. This will ensure they roast properly and get crispy.
Step 3: Make the Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, honey, soy sauce, sriracha sauce, garlic powder, ginger powder, and lemon juice. Mix well until smooth.
Step 4: Toss the Cauliflower
Place the cauliflower florets in a large mixing bowl. Pour the glaze over the florets and toss them until the cauliflower is evenly coated.
Step 5: Roast the Cauliflower
Spread the cauliflower florets in a single layer on a baking sheet. Make sure they are not overcrowded to ensure they roast evenly. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, flipping the florets halfway through, until the cauliflower is golden brown and crispy on the edges.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once the cauliflower is roasted, remove it from the oven and transfer it to a serving dish. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side for extra zest.
Tips for the Best Roasted Cauliflower
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Make sure the cauliflower florets are spread out in a single layer on the baking sheet. If they are too crowded, they will steam instead of roasting.
• Adjust the Spice: You can adjust the amount of sriracha to make the dish as spicy or mild as you like. If you prefer a milder version, reduce the amount or use a different hot sauce.
• Roast Longer for Crispier Cauliflower: If you like your cauliflower extra crispy, roast it for an additional 5-10 minutes, keeping an eye on it so it doesn’t burn.
• Serve with Dips: For extra flavor, serve the roasted cauliflower with a side of your favorite dip, such as ranch dressing, tzatziki, or a spicy mayo.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
• Calories: 100-150 (depending on portion size and glaze amount)
• Carbs: 10-15 grams
• Fat: 7-10 grams
• Protein: 2-3 grams
Why This Recipe is Perfect for Any Occasion
• Healthy Snack: It’s a great option if you’re looking for a low-carb, nutritious snack.
• Perfect for Entertaining: Serve it as a fun and tasty appetizer or side dish at your next gathering or dinner party.
• Great for Meal Prep: You can make a batch of roasted cauliflower to eat throughout the week. It keeps well in the fridge and can be easily reheated.
Conclusion
This sweet and spicy roasted cauliflower is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and a healthy alternative to traditional side dishes. Whether you’re serving it with dinner or enjoying it as a snack, this dish will impress everyone who tries it.