Here is a FULL DETAILED RECIPE for Whole Roasted Cauliflower — golden, tender, smoky, and beautifully seasoned. Perfect as a stunning vegetarian centerpiece or healthy side dish!

🥦 Whole Roasted Cauliflower

Crispy Outside · Tender Inside · Packed With Flavor

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 50–65 minutes

Total Time: 1 hr 10 min

Servings: 4

⭐ Ingredients

For the Cauliflower

• 1 large whole cauliflower (leaves trimmed, stem trimmed but intact)
• 3 tbsp olive oil (or melted butter)
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp turmeric (optional, for color)
• ½ tsp cumin (optional, adds smoky flavor)

Optional Sauce (Highly Recommended)

Garlic Herb Yogurt Sauce:

• 1 cup Greek yogurt
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 garlic clove, grated
• 1 tbsp chopped parsley or cilantro
• Salt & pepper to taste

🔪 Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Cauliflower

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Remove bottom leaves from cauliflower and trim the stem so it sits flat.
3. Rinse the cauliflower and pat it completely dry (very important for crisping).

Step 2: Season It

1. In a small bowl mix:
   • olive oil
   • salt
   • pepper
   • paprika
   • garlic powder
   • onion powder
   • turmeric
   • cumin
2. Place the cauliflower on a baking tray or cast-iron skillet.
3. Brush or rub the seasoning mixture all over the cauliflower — including the underside.

Step 3: Roast

1. Cover the cauliflower with foil and bake 35 minutes — this steams it and tenderizes the inside.
2. Remove foil and continue roasting 20–30 minutes until the top is:
   • golden brown,
   • slightly crispy,
   • fork-tender in the center.

Cooking time depends on size.

Step 4: Make the Sauce (Optional but amazing)

Mix yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, herbs, salt & pepper.
Chill until ready to serve.

Step 5: Serve

Slice like a “steak” or cut into wedges.
Serve with the garlic herb yogurt sauce or any dip like:

• Tahini sauce
• Peri peri mayo
• Green chutney
• Hummus

🍽️ Serving Ideas

• Serve as a side with chicken or steaks
• Make a vegetarian main dish
• Add chickpeas and roasted potatoes for a full meal

💡 Tips for the Best Whole Roasted Cauliflower

• Dry it fully before seasoning for maximum crispiness.
• For extra flavor: Add grated parmesan on top during the last 10 minutes.
• For spicy version: Add ½ tsp chili flakes or cayenne powder.
• Air fryer option: 375°F (190°C), 30–35 minutes (flip halfway).