Vegetarian Pesto Roasted Cauliflower Recipe
Looking for a vibrant and flavorful side dish that’s both healthy and easy to make? This Vegetarian Pesto Roasted Cauliflower is the answer! It’s a simple recipe that transforms humble cauliflower into a culinary delight, perfect for weeknight dinners or a special occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Easy: Minimal prep time and simple ingredients make this recipe a breeze.
- Flavorful: The pesto adds a burst of fresh, herby, and cheesy (if using Parmesan) flavor.
- Healthy: Packed with nutrients and a great source of fiber.
- Versatile: A great side dish for almost any main course, or even enjoyed as a light meal on its own.
Ingredients:
- 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
- 1/4 cup pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Red pepper flakes for a little heat
- Optional: Grated Parmesan cheese (if your pesto doesn’t already contain it)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the cauliflower in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender and slightly browned.
- Remove the cauliflower from the oven and toss with the pesto. If using, sprinkle with red pepper flakes and Parmesan cheese.
- Return the cauliflower to the oven for another 5 minutes, or until the pesto is fragrant and the cheese is melted (if using).
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips and Variations:
- For a crispier cauliflower, make sure the florets are dry before roasting.
- Experiment with different pesto flavors! Sun-dried tomato pesto or kale pesto would also be delicious.
- Add other vegetables to the roasting pan, such as broccoli, bell peppers, or onions.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
This Vegetarian Pesto Roasted Cauliflower is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s the perfect way to get your daily dose of vegetables in a delicious and satisfying way. Give it a try and let us know what you think in the comments below!
Ingredients:
cauliflower, pesto, olive oil, salt, pepper, red pepper flakes (optional), Parmesan cheese (optional)
Tags:
Vegetarian, Pesto, Roasted Cauliflower, Cauliflower Recipe, Side Dish, Healthy Recipe, Easy Recipe, Vegetable Recipe, Vegetarian Recipe, Pesto Recipe, Roasted Vegetables, Oven Roasted, Gluten-Free, Quick Recipe, Weeknight Dinner, Italian Inspired, Parmesan Cheese, Red Pepper Flakes