Preparation Time and Servings
– Preparation Time: 10 minutes
– Cooking Time: 45 minutes
– Servings: 2
Ingredients
– 1/2 cauliflower head, cut into florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
For seasoning:
– 1/2 teaspoon white pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon ground cayenne
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/4 teaspoon dried basil
– 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 tablespoon ground paprika
– 1 teaspoon salt
Directions
1. Prepare the Cauliflower:
Wash the cauliflower first, then cut it into bite-sized pieces. This will ensure even cooking and allow the seasoning to coat each piece thoroughly.
2. Mix the Seasoning:
– In a large bowl, combine all the seasoning ingredients: white pepper, garlic powder, ground cumin, black pepper, ground cayenne, onion powder, dried oregano, dried basil, dried thyme, ground paprika, and salt.To make sure all the spices are spread evenly, thoroughly mix.
3. Coat the Cauliflower:
– Add the olive oil to the seasoning mixture and stir until well combined. This will create a thick, aromatic paste. Add the cauliflower florets to the bowl and toss them until they are evenly coated with the seasoning mixture. The oil helps the spices adhere to the cauliflower and promotes a crispy texture when baked.
4. Prepare the Air Fryer:
In the grill air fryer combo base, place the inner pot. Spread the seasoned cauliflower florets evenly in the inner pot. Ensure that the florets are in a single layer to allow for even cooking and maximum crispiness.
5. Cooking Process:
Cover the inner pot with the air fryer lid. Turn your air fryer on to bake and adjust the temperature to 400°F. Click “Start” after adjusting the cooking duration to 45 minutes.The high temperature and extended cooking time will ensure that the cauliflower becomes tender on the inside and crispy on the outside.
6. Monitor the Cooking:
– During the cooking process, occasionally check the cauliflower to ensure it is cooking evenly. You may want to stir the florets halfway through the cooking time to promote even browning. The aroma of the spices will fill your kitchen, making it hard to wait for the timer to reach zero.
7. Finishing Touches:
– When the timer reaches zero, press the cancel button to stop the cooking process. Carefully remove the air frying lid, as it will be hot. Before serving, let the cauliflower cool for a few minutes. This cooling process makes the outside even crispier and aids in the blending of flavors.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
– Serve the Spiced Roasted Cauliflower as a side dish with your favorite main course, or enjoy it as a standalone snack. The combination of spices and the crispy texture make it a crowd-pleaser. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice for added freshness.
Nutrition Information
Calories: 177 per serving
Fat: 15.6g per serving
Protein: 3.1g per serving
Tips for Perfect Spiced Roasted Cauliflower
1. Even Cutting:
– Cut the cauliflower into evenly sized florets to ensure uniform cooking. Smaller pieces will become crispier, while larger pieces will remain tender.
2. Oil Distribution:
– Ensure the olive oil is evenly mixed with the spices before adding the cauliflower. This will help the seasoning coat each floret thoroughly.
3. Adjusting Spices:
You are welcome to change the amount of spice to suit your tastes. Cut back on the cayenne pepper if you like things less spicy. For an extra kick, add a bit more.
4. Extra Crispiness:
You can incorporate a spoonful of cornstarch into the seasoning mixture to achieve an even crispier texture. When baking, this facilitates the creation of a crisp outer layer.
5. Alternative Cooking Methods:
– If you don’t have an air fryer, you can bake the cauliflower in a conventional oven at 400°F for the same amount of time. Ensure to flip the florets halfway through baking.
6. Serving Suggestions:
– Serve the Spiced Roasted Cauliflower with a yogurt dipping sauce or a sprinkle of feta cheese for added flavor. It pairs well with grilled meats, fish, or as part of a vegetarian meal.
Health Benefits of Cauliflower
1. Rich in Nutrients:
– Cauliflower is packed with vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin C, Vitamin K, and folate, essential for overall health.
2. High in Fiber:
– The high fiber content aids in digestion and helps maintain a healthy digestive tract, promoting regular bowel movements.
3. Antioxidant Properties:
– Cauliflower contains antioxidants that help protect cells from damage and reduce inflammation, supporting the immune system.
4. Supports Weight Loss:
– Low in calories and high in fiber, cauliflower can help you feel full longer, making it an excellent choice for weight management.
5. Versatile Ingredient:
– Cauliflower can be used in various dishes, from mashed cauliflower to cauliflower rice, making it a versatile and healthy substitute for higher-calorie ingredients.
Variations to Try
1. Cheesy Roasted Cauliflower:
– Add grated Parmesan or cheddar cheese to the seasoning mixture for a cheesy twist.
2. Herb-Infused Cauliflower:
– Experiment with different herbs like rosemary, thyme, or dill for varied flavors.
3. Lemon and Herb Cauliflower:
– Add lemon zest and fresh parsley to the seasoning mixture for a zesty, fresh flavor.
4. Buffalo Cauliflower:
– Toss the roasted cauliflower in buffalo sauce after baking for a spicy, tangy snack.
5. Indian-Spiced Cauliflower:
– Use a blend of turmeric, cumin, coriander, and garam masala for an Indian-inspired flavor profile.
Storing and Reheating
1. Storage:
-Remaining food can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.The flavors will continue to meld, making the leftovers even tastier.
2. Reheating:
– Reheat the cauliflower in the air fryer or oven at 350°F until warmed through. This helps to restore the crispiness.
Baked Cauliflower is a delightful and nutritious dish that highlights the vegetable’s versatility and flavor. It’s simple to prepare and serves as an excellent side dish or even a main course for those looking to add more vegetables to their diet. The process involves coating cauliflower florets in a mixture of olive oil and seasonings, then baking until they achieve a perfect balance of tenderness and crispiness. The result is a savory, slightly crispy exterior with a tender, flavorful interior. This dish is low in calories but rich in vitamins and fiber, making it a healthy choice. It’s perfect for any meal and can be customized with various herbs and spices to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy Baked Cauliflower as a guilt-free indulgence that’s both delicious and good for you.