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Quick Crispy Cauliflower

Featured in: Vegetable and Grain Sides

Found this simple way to make cauliflower actually taste amazing - turns out curry powder is the secret! Just break up a head of cauliflower, coat the pieces with curry powder, salt, and oil. The trick is starting them in a really hot pan to get some nice brown spots, then finishing in the oven until they get these awesome crispy edges. Takes less than 30 minutes start to finish, and the curry gives it this warm, rich flavor that makes regular roasted cauliflower seem boring. My whole family loves it now, which honestly shocked me since they usually complain about vegetable sides. Perfect when you need a quick veggie dish but don't want the same old steamed stuff. Even better with a squeeze of lemon at the end and some fresh herbs if you have them. Makes great leftovers too - just reheat in the oven to crisp them up again.```
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Updated on Mon, 13 Jan 2025 23:23:51 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.
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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.

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.

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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