Why make this recipe
Crispy Roasted Cauliflower with Creamy Herb Sauce is a delicious and easy side dish that everyone will love. Cauliflower is packed with nutrients and is a great low-carb option. When roasted, it becomes golden brown and crispy, making it a perfect companion for a variety of meals. The creamy herb sauce adds a delightful fresh flavor that balances out the roasted taste. This dish is not only tasty but also simple to prepare, making it a great choice for busy weeknights or entertaining guests.
How to make Crispy Roasted Cauliflower with Creamy Herb Sauce
Ingredients
- 1 head of cauliflower, cut into florets
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (like parsley, dill, or chives), chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Garlic powder (optional)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder if using.
- Toss the cauliflower florets in the mixture until they are well coated.
- Spread the cauliflower on a baking sheet in a single layer.
- Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through.
- While the cauliflower is roasting, prepare the creamy herb sauce by mixing the sour cream, fresh herbs, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Once the cauliflower is done, serve it warm with the creamy herb sauce on the side.
How to serve Crispy Roasted Cauliflower with Creamy Herb Sauce
Serve the crispy roasted cauliflower warm, drizzled with the creamy herb sauce. It can be a side dish for grilled chicken, steak, or fish. You can also enjoy it as a snack or appetizer. Garnish with extra herbs or lemon wedges for added flavor.
How to store Crispy Roasted Cauliflower with Creamy Herb Sauce
To store leftover roasted cauliflower, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3 to 5 days. For the herb sauce, store it separately in a jar or container with a lid.
Tips to make Crispy Roasted Cauliflower with Creamy Herb Sauce
- Ensure the cauliflower florets are evenly coated for the best texture.
- Flip the florets halfway through roasting to get an even crisp.
- Feel free to experiment with different herbs in the sauce for varied flavors.
- If you want extra crunch, bake a few more minutes until crunchy.
Variation
You can switch up the spices or add some spices like smoked paprika or cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy kick. For a vegan version, substitute the sour cream with a plant-based alternative and skip the cheese.
FAQs
Q1: Can I use frozen cauliflower?
A1: Yes, but fresh cauliflower will give you a better texture and flavor. If using frozen, make sure to thaw and drain it well before roasting.
Q2: How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A2: Replace panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free cereal.
Q3: Can I make the herb sauce ahead of time?
A3: Yes, you can prepare the herb sauce a day in advance, just keep it stored in the refrigerator until ready to use.
Crispy Roasted Cauliflower with Creamy Herb Sauce
Ingredients
For the roasted cauliflower
- 1 head head of cauliflower, cut into florets
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- to taste Salt and pepper
- Garlic powder optional Garlic powder Optional ingredient for added flavor
For the creamy herb sauce
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt Choose according to preference
- 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (like parsley, dill, or chives), chopped Any combination of fresh herbs can be used
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- to taste Salt and pepper
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder if using.
- Toss the cauliflower florets in the mixture until they are well coated.
- Spread the cauliflower on a baking sheet in a single layer.
Cooking
- Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through.
Preparing the Sauces
- While the cauliflower is roasting, prepare the creamy herb sauce by mixing the sour cream, fresh herbs, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
Serving
- Once the cauliflower is done, serve it warm with the creamy herb sauce on the side.