Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs Cauliflower (600 g), cut into florets
- 1 large egg
- 5.5 oz sour cream (150 g)
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Dried garlic, to taste
- 50g cheese (such as cheddar or Parmesan), grated
- Olive oil, for drizzling
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Cauliflower
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.
- Wash the cauliflower thoroughly and pat it dry with paper towels. Cut the cauliflower into bite-sized florets, discarding the tough stems.
Step 2: Prepare the Egg Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the egg until well combined.
- Add the sour cream to the beaten egg and mix until smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Season the Cauliflower
- Place the cauliflower florets in the bowl with the egg mixture, tossing them gently to coat evenly.
- Season the cauliflower with salt, black pepper, and dried garlic to taste. Mix well to ensure that the seasonings are evenly distributed.
Step 4: Add Cheese
- Sprinkle the grated cheese over the cauliflower and toss gently to coat.
- Transfer the cauliflower mixture to the prepared baking sheet, spreading it out in a single layer.
Step 5: Roast in the Oven
- Drizzle olive oil over the cauliflower florets, ensuring that they are evenly coated.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 25-30 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender and golden brown, stirring halfway through the cooking time for even browning.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Once the cauliflower is cooked to perfection, remove it from the oven and transfer it to a serving dish.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or additional grated cheese, if desired, and serve hot.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the egg mixture for a spicy kick.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs and spices such as rosemary, thyme, or smoked paprika to enhance the flavor profile of the cauliflower.
- Citrus Zest: For a burst of freshness, sprinkle some lemon zest over the roasted cauliflower just before serving.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
For those following a keto or low-carb diet, here are some modifications you can make to adapt this Oven-Roasted Cauliflower recipe:
- Keto Cheese: Use keto-friendly cheese options such as mozzarella, Gouda, or Monterey Jack to keep the carb count low.
- Creamy Substitutes: Substitute full-fat Greek yogurt or cream cheese for sour cream to reduce the carb content of the dish.
- Low-Carb Seasonings: Choose low-carb seasoning blends or make your own using herbs and spices without added sugars or fillers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use frozen cauliflower for this recipe? A: Yes, you can use frozen cauliflower florets, but be sure to thaw and pat them dry before tossing them in the egg mixture to ensure they roast evenly.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time? A: While roasted cauliflower is best served fresh for optimal texture and flavor, you can prepare the cauliflower up to a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Simply reheat it in the oven before serving to restore its crispiness.
Q: Can I omit the cheese for a dairy-free version? A: Absolutely! Simply omit the cheese or substitute it with nutritional yeast for a dairy-free alternative that’s still packed with flavor.
In conclusion, this Oven-Roasted Cauliflower recipe is a simple yet satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re following a keto diet, looking for a low-carb side dish, or simply craving something delicious and nutritious, this recipe ticks all the boxes. With its crispy texture, creamy coating, and irresistible flavor, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. So, fire up your oven, grab a head of cauliflower, and get ready to enjoy a healthy and flavorful dish that will delight your taste buds!
Give this Oven-Roasted Cauliflower recipe a try and experience the magic of simple ingredients coming together to create something truly delicious.
Happy cooking!
