Ingredients:
- 1 large head of cauliflower
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place a baking sheet or a large, oven-safe dish inside the oven as it preheats.
Prepare the Cauliflower:
- Remove the leaves from the cauliflower and trim the stem so it sits flat.
- Cut the cauliflower into bite-sized florets. You can also leave some of them slightly larger for variety in texture.
Roast the Garlic: In a small pan, heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to overcook the garlic; it should be lightly golden. Remove from heat and set aside.
Coat the Cauliflower: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cauliflower florets, roasted garlic and oil mixture, grated Parmesan cheese, dried Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until the cauliflower is evenly coated with the seasoning and cheese.
Roast the Cauliflower: Carefully remove the preheated baking sheet or dish from the oven and coat it with non-stick cooking spray or a little more olive oil to prevent sticking. Spread the cauliflower mixture evenly on the hot baking sheet or dish.
Bake: Place the baking sheet or dish back into the oven and roast the cauliflower for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender and has developed a nice golden brown color. You can check for doneness by poking a fork into a floret; it should go in easily.
Garnish and Serve: Once the cauliflower is done, remove it from the oven. If desired, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of freshness and color.
Serve: Transfer the roasted garlic Parmesan cauliflower to a serving dish and serve hot. It makes a delicious side dish or even a light main course. Enjoy!
This roasted garlic Parmesan cauliflower is a flavorful and healthy addition to any meal. It's a crowd-pleaser for sure!
