Roasted Cauliflower with Butter Sauce

Are you ready to take your vegetable side dishes to the next level? Look no further than our delectable recipe for Roasted Cauliflower with Butter Sauce. This simple yet elegant dish showcases the natural flavors of cauliflower while adding a rich and indulgent butter sauce to elevate every bite. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish for a family dinner or as a star attraction at your next dinner party, this recipe is sure to impress. So, let’s dive into the world of roasted cauliflower perfection!

Ingredients:

For the Roasted Cauliflower:

• 1 large head cauliflower, cut into florets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

For the Butter Sauce:

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Roast the Cauliflower:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika until evenly coated.
3. Spread the cauliflower in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender and golden brown, stirring halfway through.

2. Make the Butter Sauce:

1. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
3. Stir in the lemon juice and chopped parsley, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Remove from heat and set aside.

3. Serve:

1. Transfer the roasted cauliflower to a serving platter.
2. Drizzle the butter sauce over the cauliflower, ensuring each floret is coated evenly.
3. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.
4. Serve hot and enjoy!

Cook’s Notes and Variations:

• Cheesy Cauliflower: For an extra indulgent twist, sprinkle grated Parmesan or shredded Cheddar cheese over the roasted cauliflower during the last 5 minutes of baking. The cheese will melt and form a deliciously gooey topping.
• Spicy Cauliflower: Add a kick of heat to your roasted cauliflower by tossing the florets with a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper before roasting. Adjust the amount to suit your spice preference.
• Herb-Infused Butter: Experiment with different herbs and aromatics to customize the flavor of the butter sauce. Try adding fresh thyme, rosemary, or chives for an herbaceous twist.
• Vegan Version: To make this recipe vegan-friendly, substitute the butter with olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative. The result will still be deliciously flavorful and satisfying.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Q: Can I use frozen cauliflower for this recipe? A: While fresh cauliflower is preferred for optimal flavor and texture, you can use frozen cauliflower florets if that’s what you have on hand. Just be sure to thaw and pat them dry before tossing with the seasonings and roasting.

Q: How long will leftovers keep? A: Leftover roasted cauliflower can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving.

Q: Can I make the butter sauce ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the butter sauce ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Q: Is roasted cauliflower keto-friendly? A: Yes, roasted cauliflower is keto-friendly and low in carbohydrates, making it a perfect addition to a ketogenic diet. The butter sauce in this recipe adds richness and flavor without adding significant carbs.

Keto Version and Low-Carb Adaptation:

For those following a keto or low-carb lifestyle, here’s a modified version of the recipe:

Keto Roasted Cauliflower with Herb Butter:

• Use olive oil instead of butter for the sauce to keep it dairy-free and keto-friendly.
• Omit the garlic and use garlic powder sparingly to reduce the carb content.
• Serve the roasted cauliflower with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor without adding extra carbs.

With our recipe for Roasted Cauliflower with Butter Sauce, you can turn a humble vegetable into a gourmet delight. Whether you’re looking for a simple side dish to accompany your weeknight dinner or an impressive addition to your holiday table, this recipe fits the bill. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a dish that’s bursting with flavor and guaranteed to please even the pickiest of eaters. So, fire up your oven, grab a head of cauliflower, and get ready to savor the irresistible goodness of roasted cauliflower perfection!