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Quick Crispy Cauliflower

Cauliflower florets seasoned with curry powder, seared in a skillet then roasted at high heat for crispy edges. Ready in 25 minutes for a flavorful side dish.

Featured in Vegetable and Grain Sides.

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Updated on Mon, 06 Jan 2025 13:37:26 GMT
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Quick Crispy Cauliflower | quickierecipe.com

Quick & Crispy Cauliflower in 30 Minutes transforms humble cauliflower into a golden, crispy delight that even vegetable skeptics can't resist. With just a few ingredients and simple techniques, you'll create perfectly seasoned florets with crispy edges and tender centers.

When I first made this recipe, my teenagers actually fought over the last pieces. Now I make a double batch because everyone wants seconds of vegetables - imagine that!

Essential Ingredients

  • Fresh cauliflower: look for tight, white florets without brown spots
  • Avocado oil: its high smoke point ensures perfect browning
  • Curry powder or shawarma seasoning: adds depth and warmth
  • Kosher salt: enhances all the flavors
  • Fresh garlic: becomes sweet and nutty when roasted

Detailed Cooking Instructions

Step 1:
Cut florets into even-sized pieces, about 1.5 inches. Uniformity is key for even cooking and maximum crispiness.
Step 2:
Toss cauliflower with oil and seasonings in a large bowl. Use your hands to ensure every piece is well-coated.
Step 3:
Heat a large skillet until very hot. Add cauliflower in a single layer - don't overcrowd! Sear until golden on one side before stirring.
Step 4:
Transfer to a preheated 425°F oven. Roast for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until edges are crispy and centers are tender.
Step 5:
Finish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving.
Quick Crispy Cauliflower Pin it
Quick Crispy Cauliflower | quickierecipe.com

My Mediterranean neighbor taught me that a pinch of sumac at the end adds a wonderful lemony brightness. It's become my secret finishing touch.Impact-Site-Verification: 8012baa8-eedd-430d-a719-8cded1db83b6

Temperature Matters

A very hot oven is crucial for achieving that perfect crispy exterior while maintaining a tender interior.

Serving Suggestions

Serve as a side dish, add to grain bowls, or enjoy as a healthy snack with tahini sauce.

Storage Tips

Keep leftovers uncovered in the fridge to prevent sogginess. Reheat in a hot oven to restore crispiness.

Seasoning Variations

Try different spice combinations - Italian herbs, Mexican spices, or simple garlic and parmesan all work beautifully.

Quick Crispy Cauliflower Pin it
Quick Crispy Cauliflower | quickierecipe.com

This recipe has converted countless cauliflower skeptics in my house. It's proof that simple ingredients and proper technique can transform everyday vegetables into crave-worthy dishes.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do you get cauliflower crispy?
First pan-sear then roast at 450°F, avoiding overcrowding the pan for best results.
→ What seasonings can I use?
Either curry powder or shawarma spice blend work well with this cooking method.
→ Can I make this ahead?
Best served fresh, but leftovers keep in the fridge for 3-4 days.
→ Why use avocado oil?
Its high smoke point makes it ideal for high-temperature roasting.
→ What can I serve this with?
Top with fresh cilantro, toasted almonds, and tahini for extra flavor.

Crispy Roasted Curry Cauliflower

Golden brown cauliflower florets seasoned with curry spices, pan-seared then roasted until perfectly crispy on the edges.

Prep Time
10 Minutes
Cook Time
20 Minutes
Total Time
30 Minutes
By: Meryem

Category: Side Dishes

Difficulty: Intermediate

Cuisine: Middle Eastern fusion

Yield: 4 Servings

Dietary: Low-Carb, Vegan, Vegetarian, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free

Ingredients

→ Cauliflower seasoning

01 Large head cauliflower, cut into bite-size florets (stems and core removed)
02 Avocado oil, 1 tablespoon
03 Sea salt, 1 teaspoon
04 Curry powder or shawarma spice blend, 1 tablespoon
05 Maple syrup, 1/2 teaspoon (optional)

→ For cooking

06 Avocado oil, 1-2 tablespoons

→ Optional garnishes

07 Fresh cilantro
08 Slivered almonds, toasted
09 Fresh tahini

Instructions

Step 01

Set your oven to 450°F (232°C) and grab a large, oven-safe rimmed skillet, preferably cast iron.

Step 02

In a large mixing bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with oil, salt, your choice of seasonings, and maple syrup if using, until evenly coated.

Step 03

Heat your skillet over medium-high heat with just enough oil to coat the bottom. Once hot, add cauliflower in a single layer (avoid overcrowding) and sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly seared and golden brown.

Step 04

Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and bake for 10-15 minutes on the center rack, stirring every 5 minutes. The cauliflower should end up golden brown with crispy edges and tender-crisp texture.

Step 05

Top with your choice of fresh cilantro, toasted slivered almonds, and/or a drizzle of fresh tahini if desired. Best served immediately while hot and crispy.

Notes

  1. Leftovers keep in the refrigerator for 3-4 days but are best enjoyed fresh
  2. Not suitable for freezing
  3. To toast almonds, cook in a dry pan over medium heat for about 5 minutes until golden
  4. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure crispy cauliflower

Tools You'll Need

  • Large oven-safe rimmed skillet (preferably cast iron)
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Measuring spoons

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Contains tree nuts if using almonds
  • Contains sesame if using tahini