Whole Roasted Cauliflower with Butter Sauce 🥦✨

“A Stunning, Delicious Side Dish That Steals the Show!”

This Whole Roasted Cauliflower is tender, flavorful, and beautifully golden, draped in a rich, buttery sauce. It’s an impressive dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for family dinners, holidays, or special occasions.

Ingredients

For the Cauliflower:

• 1 medium head of cauliflower, leaves trimmed but stem intact
• 4 cups water (or vegetable broth for extra flavor)
• 1 tablespoon salt

For the Butter Sauce:

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin (optional, for a warm earthy flavor)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Garnishes:

• Chopped fresh parsley
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• Lemon wedges

How to Make Whole Roasted Cauliflower with Butter Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Cauliflower

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large pot, bring the water (or broth) to a boil. Add the salt and carefully lower the whole cauliflower into the pot.
3. Simmer for 8–10 minutes, or until the cauliflower is just tender but not falling apart. Remove and let it drain.

Step 2: Make the Butter Sauce

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper.

Step 3: Roast the Cauliflower

1. Place the cauliflower on a baking sheet or in a cast-iron skillet.
2. Brush the cauliflower generously with the butter sauce, making sure to coat it evenly. Reserve a little sauce for basting later.
3. Roast in the preheated oven for 30–40 minutes, basting with the reserved butter sauce halfway through, until the cauliflower is golden brown and slightly crispy on the outside.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

1. Remove the cauliflower from the oven and sprinkle with chopped parsley and grated Parmesan, if desired.
2. Serve whole at the table for a dramatic presentation, and slice into wedges. Add a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Impressive Presentation: A whole roasted cauliflower makes a stunning centerpiece.
• Packed with Flavor: The butter sauce infuses the cauliflower with rich, savory goodness.
• Healthy and Versatile: A low-carb, gluten-free option that pairs well with almost any meal.

Pro Tips for Success

1. Don’t Overcook: Parboil the cauliflower until tender but firm to prevent it from becoming mushy during roasting.
2. Experiment with Spices: Swap or add spices like turmeric, curry powder, or chili flakes for unique flavor profiles.
3. Make It Vegan: Use plant-based butter and skip the Parmesan for a dairy-free version.

This Whole Roasted Cauliflower with Butter Sauce is a delicious way to enjoy this humble vegetable, elevating it into a dish that’s as satisfying as it is beautiful. Perfect as a side or even a light main course. Enjoy! 🥦✨🍋