Roasted Purple Cauliflower Recipe
Introduction
Roasted purple cauliflower is a vibrant and flavorful side dish that adds a pop of color to any meal. With a crispy, caramelized exterior and tender inside, it’s simple to make and pairs well with a variety of main courses.

Ingredients
- 1 head purple cauliflower, cut into florets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Kosher salt
- Coarse black pepper
- Chopped Italian parsley, for garnish
- Shredded parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat oven to 450°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Step 2: Toss the cauliflower florets with olive oil, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Step 3: Spread the cauliflower in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet without overcrowding to allow for even roasting.
- Step 4: Season generously with kosher salt and coarse black pepper.
- Step 5: Roast in the oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges and flat surfaces are browned and tender. Cooking time may vary based on floret size.
- Step 6: Serve warm, garnished with chopped Italian parsley and a sprinkle of shredded parmesan cheese.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of garlic powder or smoked paprika before roasting.
- Substitute parmesan with a vegan cheese alternative to make this dish dairy-free.
- Allow space between florets to promote better caramelization and crispiness.
Storage
Store leftover roasted cauliflower in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in a 375°F oven for about 10 minutes to revive its crisp texture, or microwave until heated through.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use white cauliflower instead of purple?
Yes, white cauliflower can be roasted using the same method and yields a deliciously similar result.
How do I prevent cauliflower from becoming soggy when roasting?
Make sure to spread the florets out so they aren’t touching each other. Overcrowding traps steam and prevents browning, leading to sogginess.
PrintRoasted Purple Cauliflower Recipe
This Roasted Purple Cauliflower recipe features vibrant purple cauliflower florets tossed in olive oil, seasoned with kosher salt and coarse black pepper, then oven-roasted to achieve crispy browned edges. Finished with a garnish of chopped Italian parsley and shredded Parmesan cheese, this simple yet flavorful side dish adds color and nutrition to any meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Total Time: 25-30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 head purple cauliflower, cut into florets
Seasonings and Garnishes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Coarse black pepper, to taste
- Chopped Italian parsley, for garnish
- Shredded Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.
- Prepare Cauliflower: Toss the purple cauliflower florets in 2 tablespoons of olive oil ensuring every piece is fully coated for even roasting and crispness.
- Season: Spread the coated cauliflower in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan to allow air circulation. Generously season with kosher salt and coarse black pepper according to taste.
- Roast: Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast the cauliflower for 15-20 minutes. Roast until the edges and flat surfaces develop a golden brown, crispy texture. Cooking time may vary depending on the size of your florets.
- Serve: Remove the cauliflower from the oven, then serve it warm. Garnish with chopped Italian parsley and sprinkle shredded Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor and presentation.
Notes
- For best results, make sure cauliflower florets are evenly sized for uniform cooking.
- Do not overcrowd the baking sheet; roasting in a single layer ensures crispy edges.
- Adjust salt and pepper levels according to your preference.
- Use fresh Parmesan cheese for optimal flavor.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven to maintain crispness.
Keywords: roasted purple cauliflower, roasted cauliflower, vegetarian side dish, healthy vegetable recipe, oven roasted cauliflower

