When it comes to cooking, sometimes simplicity is key. That’s why we’re obsessed with roasting a whole head of cauliflower – it’s a game-changer for any meal or occasion. Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy and adventurous or comforting and familiar, there’s a way to prepare whole cauliflower that will satisfy your cravings. In this article, we’ll explore 19 delicious and creative ways to cook with whole cauliflower, from savory and smoky to sweet and tangy. From garlic butter roasted to Mediterranean-stuffed, our recipes are sure to inspire you to get cooking (and eating) more whole cauliflower in the future.
Read on to discover our favorite flavorful whole cauliflower recipes for every occasion!
Garlic Butter Roasted Whole Cauliflower
Elevate your cauliflower game with this easy and flavorful recipe that brings out the natural sweetness of the vegetable.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole head of cauliflower (about 2 lbs)
– 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower under cold water, then pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
4. Place the cauliflower on a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over the cauliflower, making sure to cover all surfaces.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the cauliflower is tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Harissa Whole Cauliflower with Yogurt Drizzle
Discover the perfect blend of spicy and creamy with this Moroccan-inspired recipe, where roasted whole cauliflower meets the tangy zip of harissa and a dollop of yogurt.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole head of cauliflower
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tsp harissa
– Salt, to taste
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tsp honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem.
3. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, harissa, and salt.
4. Toss the cauliflower in the spice mixture until well coated.
5. Roast the cauliflower in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
6. Meanwhile, mix the yogurt and honey in a small bowl.
7. Once the cauliflower is done, let it cool slightly.
8. Drizzle the yogurt mixture over the roasted cauliflower.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Enjoy your Spicy Harissa Whole Cauliflower with Yogurt Drizzle!
Cheesy Baked Whole Cauliflower with Breadcrumbs
Transform a humble head of cauliflower into a golden, cheesy masterpiece. This recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner or as a side dish to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Panko)
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese (divided)
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove any leaves or stems.
3. In a small bowl, mix together breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup of grated cheese, salt, and pepper.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the cauliflower, then sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the head.
5. Top with remaining cheese.
6. Place the cauliflower on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Honey Mustard Glazed Whole Cauliflower
Transform your whole cauliflower into a sweet and tangy masterpiece with this easy recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole head of cauliflower
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove any leaves or stems.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, and salt until well combined.
4. Drizzle the olive oil over the cauliflower, then brush the honey-mustard mixture evenly across the head, making sure to coat all surfaces.
5. Season with pepper to taste.
6. Place the cauliflower on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and roast for 30-40 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Turmeric and Coconut Milk Braised Whole Cauliflower
This recipe transforms a humble head of cauliflower into a creamy, aromatic masterpiece. The combination of turmeric, coconut milk, and garlic creates a depth of flavor that will elevate this dish to new heights.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Place the cauliflower in the skillet, cut side up. Sprinkle with turmeric and season with salt and pepper.
6. Pour in the coconut milk, making sure the cauliflower is fully submerged.
7. Cover the skillet with a lid or aluminum foil and transfer to the preheated oven.
8. Braise for 30-40 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender and the liquid has reduced slightly.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Mexican-Spiced Whole Cauliflower with Lime Crema
Elevate your cauliflower game with this vibrant and flavorful recipe, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole head of cauliflower (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crema (Mexican sour cream)
– Juice from 1 lime, plus wedges for serving
– Optional: crumbled queso fresco or chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Brush the mixture evenly onto the cauliflower, making sure to get it in all nooks and crannies.
5. Roast the cauliflower for 20-25 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized.
6. While the cauliflower is roasting, whisk together crema and lime juice in a small bowl.
7. Once the cauliflower is done, remove from oven and brush with the lime crema.
8. Serve immediately, garnished with queso fresco or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Whole Cauliflower Steak with Chimichurri Sauce
A flavorful and visually stunning side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe elevates the humble cauliflower to a main event, thanks to its crispy edges and tender center, paired with a tangy and herby chimichurri sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole head of cauliflower
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh parsley leaves
– 1 cup fresh oregano leaves
– 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove the leaves, stem, and core.
3. Cut the cauliflower into a thick steak shape.
4. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, parsley, oregano, red wine vinegar, and Dijon mustard.
5. Brush the chimichurri sauce all over the cauliflower steak.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sesame Soy Roasted Whole Cauliflower
Elevate your cauliflower game with this Asian-inspired recipe that combines the nutty flavor of sesame oil and soy sauce for a deliciously savory dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole head of cauliflower, leaves removed
– 2 tbsp sesame oil
– 1 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp honey
– 1/4 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower under cold water, then pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together sesame oil, soy sauce, honey, and garlic powder.
4. Place the cauliflower on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, drizzle with the sesame-soy mixture, and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Buffalo-Style Whole Cauliflower with Blue Cheese Dip
A spicy twist on a classic appetizer, this recipe combines the natural sweetness of whole cauliflower with the bold flavors of buffalo wing sauce and creamy blue cheese dip.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of whole cauliflower
– 1/4 cup buffalo wing sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower under cold water, then pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower with olive oil, salt, and pepper until well coated.
4. Spread the cauliflower on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
5. While the cauliflower is roasting, mix the blue cheese, mayonnaise, and buffalo wing sauce in a small bowl until smooth.
6. Once the cauliflower is done, remove it from the oven and toss with the buffalo-blue cheese dip.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mediterranean Stuffed Whole Cauliflower
Elevate your veggie game with this show-stopping Mediterranean-inspired cauliflower dish, packed with flavors and textures.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole head of cauliflower (about 2 lbs)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove the leaves, stem, and core.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, breadcrumbs, feta cheese, parsley, and lemon juice.
4. Stuff each floret with the mixture, dividing it evenly among all the florets.
5. Place the stuffed cauliflower on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Whole Cauliflower Alfredo with Parmesan Crisps
Elevate your pasta game with this innovative twist on a classic favorite! This recipe turns a whole head of cauliflower into a creamy, cheesy masterpiece, topped with crunchy Parmesan crisps.
Ingredients:
– 1 large whole head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for crisps)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove leaves. Cut off the stem and create a flat surface.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add flour; whisk together. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Gradually add heavy cream, whisking constantly. Bring to a simmer.
6. Place cauliflower in the skillet and toss with sauce until coated.
7. Transfer to a baking dish and top with Parmesan cheese.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cauliflower is tender.
9. Meanwhile, mix grated Parmesan cheese with a pinch of salt. Spread on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (180°C) for 5-7 minutes or until crispy.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Smoky BBQ Whole Cauliflower with Slaw
Transform your cauliflower game with this smoky, tangy, and crunchy recipe that combines the natural sweetness of cauliflower with the bold flavors of BBQ.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole head of cauliflower
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp brown sugar
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup coleslaw mix (shredded cabbage, carrots, and onions)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower head and pat dry with paper towels.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the cauliflower, sprinkling smoked paprika and brown sugar evenly.
4. Roast in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
5. Remove from the oven and brush with BBQ sauce.
6. Top with coleslaw mix and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Whole Cauliflower Masala with Fresh Cilantro
Transform a humble head of cauliflower into a flavorful and aromatic Indian-inspired masterpiece, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole head of cauliflower (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tablespoons ghee or vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup water
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove any leaves or stems. Place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. In a large skillet, heat the ghee or oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion and cook until lightly caramelized, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the garlic, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, cardamom, and salt to the skillet. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
5. Pour the spice mixture over the cauliflower and drizzle with water.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until tender and golden brown.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Herb Roasted Whole Cauliflower
Elevate your cauliflower game with this bright and citrusy roasted whole head, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole head of cauliflower (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 4 tbsp)
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, parsley, dill, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the cauliflower to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the mixture.
5. Place the cauliflower on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each floret for even roasting.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Whole Cauliflower Wellington with Mushroom Duxelles
Experience the elegance of a Beef Wellington, reimagined with whole cauliflower and rich mushroom duxelles. This show-stopping side dish is sure to impress your dinner guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and button), finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté mushrooms, garlic, and butter until softened. Add flour and cook for 1 minute.
3. Remove cauliflower from center of head, leaving about 1 inch intact around the core.
4. Stuff the cauliflower with mushroom duxelles, mounding it slightly in the center.
5. Place the cauliflower on a sheet pan lined with parchment paper, seam-side down.
6. Brush edges of cauliflower with beaten egg and sprinkle with Gruyère cheese.
7. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until golden brown and tender.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Thai Curry Whole Cauliflower with Peanut Sauce
Transform a whole head of cauliflower into a flavorful and nutritious dish by wrapping it in the bold flavors of Thai curry and creamy peanut sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 large head of cauliflower, leaves removed
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 tablespoon Thai red curry paste
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
– Peanut sauce ingredients:
+ 1/4 cup creamy natural peanut butter
+ 2 tablespoons soy sauce
+ 2 tablespoons lime juice
+ 1 tablespoon honey
+ 1/4 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together oil, garlic, and ginger.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto the cauliflower, making sure to coat all surfaces.
4. Wrap the curry paste around the cauliflower, spreading it evenly.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
6. Meanwhile, mix peanut sauce ingredients together in a small bowl.
7. Serve roasted cauliflower with warm peanut sauce drizzled on top. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Whole Cauliflower Gratin with Gruyère Cheese
Transform a whole head of cauliflower into a creamy, cheesy masterpiece. This Whole Cauliflower Gratin with Gruyère Cheese is an impressive side dish perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 large head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 1/2 cups grated Gruyère cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower under cold water, then pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and cook, stirring constantly, for 1 minute.
4. Remove from heat and gradually whisk in heavy cream until smooth.
5. Arrange cauliflower on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Pour the cream mixture over the cauliflower, making sure it’s fully coated.
6. Sprinkle Gruyère cheese evenly over the top.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cauliflower is tender and the top is golden brown.
8. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Whole Cauliflower with Rosemary
Elevate your vegetable game with this impressive and flavorful whole cauliflower dish, perfect for a special occasion or a simple weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of whole cauliflower
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 4 tbsp balsamic glaze (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove any leaves or damaged florets.
3. Place the cauliflower on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, stem side down.
4. Drizzle the olive oil over the cauliflower and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
5. Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the cauliflower, making sure to coat it evenly.
6. Sprinkle the rosemary sprigs around the cauliflower.
7. Roast in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Whole Cauliflower Tacos with Avocado Lime Crema
Whole Cauliflower Tacos with Avocado Lime Crema: A Game-Changing Vegetarian Option
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Ingredients:
—————
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 corn tortillas
– Avocado Lime Crema (recipe below)
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, crumbled queso fresco, sliced radishes
Instructions:
————–
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem. Cut it into florets.
3. In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower with olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
4. Spread the cauliflower on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and lightly browned.
5. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble the tacos by spooning the roasted cauliflower onto the tortillas and topping with Avocado Lime Crema.
Avocado Lime Crema:
——————-
– 3 ripe avocados
– Juice of 1 lime
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
————–
1. Cut the avocados in half and remove the pit.
2. In a bowl, mash the avocados with a fork until mostly smooth.
3. Stir in the lime juice and salt to taste.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your meals with these 19 flavorful whole cauliflower recipes! From classic comfort dishes like Garlic Butter Roasted Whole Cauliflower, to bold and spicy options like Spicy Harissa Whole Cauliflower with Yogurt Drizzle, there’s something for every occasion. Try Cheesy Baked Whole Cauliflower with Breadcrumbs for a satisfying side dish or go global with Turmeric and Coconut Milk Braised Whole Cauliflower or Thai Curry Whole Cauliflower with Peanut Sauce. Whatever your taste buds desire, these recipes will surely impress!