Roasted cauliflower with lemon zest is a vibrant and healthy side dish that brings out the natural sweetness and nuttiness of cauliflower through oven roasting. Tossed with olive oil, salt, and pepper, the cauliflower florets are roasted until golden and crispy on the edges, then finished with a sprinkle of fresh lemon zest for a bright, citrusy kick. This simple yet flavorful dish is both vegan and gluten-free, making it a versatile addition to any meal.
Cauliflower Can Be Healthy And Delicious
Lets talk about cauliflower recipe topics:
- How To Roast Cauliflower
- Ingredients
- Cook Time
How To Make Roast Cauliflower with Lemon Zest
To make roast cauliflower with lemon zest, start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Cut a head of cauliflower into bite-sized florets, then toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread the florets evenly on a baking sheet and roast for 25–30 minutes, or until golden and tender, flipping halfway through. Once out of the oven, sprinkle with freshly grated lemon zest and, if desired, a squeeze of lemon juice for extra brightness. Serve warm as a side dish or a light main.
Ingredients:
- 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into florets
- 2–3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest (from about 1 lemon)
- Optional: 1–2 teaspoons lemon juice, for extra zing
- Optional garnish: chopped fresh parsley or grated Parmesan
Cook Time and Instructions
Preheat Oven
Set your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
Prep the Cauliflower
Wash and dry the cauliflower, then cut into even-sized florets.
Season
In a large bowl, toss the florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
Roast
Spread the cauliflower on the baking sheet in a single layer. Roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and slightly crispy on the edges.
Add Lemon Zest
Remove from the oven and immediately toss with the lemon zest (and lemon juice, if using) while still hot.
Serve
Garnish with parsley or Parmesan if desired. Serve warm.
